It's easy to get caught up in the idea that if we're not constantly relaxed and happy, there's something wrong with us. Society tells us that feelings like pain, fear, anxiety, grief, and uncertainty are all "bad" and should be fixed ASAP. So, it's no surprise that we often try to push these feelings away, ignore them, or even feel ashamed for having them in the first place. But here's the thing: trying to sweep our emotions under the rug usually just makes them stick around longer.
It might sound counterintuitive, but accepting how we feel in the moment can actually make a big difference. There's a sort of beauty in embracing our humanity and allowing ourselves to feel whatever comes up. When we stop fighting against our tough emotions and treat them with kindness, something remarkable happens—they start to lose their grip on us.
You might have heard the phrase "sit with it" thrown around, but what does that really mean? Essentially, it's about being intentional with how we handle our emotions. Instead of trying to make them disappear or diving headfirst into negativity, it's about finding a middle ground.
So, how do we "sit with" our feelings? Here are some practical tips:
Notice without judgment: Simply acknowledging what you're feeling without labeling it as "good" or "bad" can be incredibly freeing.
Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer to a friend who's struggling. Remind yourself that it's okay not to be okay sometimes.
Stay present: Rather than getting lost in worrying about the future or ruminating on the past, focus on what you're experiencing right now.
Breathe: Taking slow, deep breaths can help calm your nervous system and create space for your emotions to exist without overwhelming you.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for help navigating your emotions. You don't have to go through this alone.
As we become better at understanding our emotions, we start to figure out where they're coming from. It's like turning up the volume on our inner radar, which helps us see why we're feeling the way we do. With this clearer understanding, we can tell if our emotions are triggered by things happening around us or by our own thoughts and stories. We realize that it's not always what's happening that makes us feel a certain way, but how we see and interpret it.
If you're ready to take control of your emotional well-being and embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth, Aligned Minds Counselling and Therapy in Edmonton is here to support you every step of the way. Our team of compassionate therapists is dedicated to providing you with the tools and guidance you need to navigate life's challenges with resilience and clarity. Contact us today to schedule a session and begin your transformational journey towards a happier, healthier you.
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