Society says that pain, anxiety, grief and fear are bad and should be fixed so we find ourselves trying to numb our feelings, escape them, hide them, talk ourselves out of admitting we have them or just feeling ashamed of them.
But here’s the thing… for those emotions and feelings to go away, we need to feel them. We need to accept how we’re feeling.
A lot of people use the phrase ‘sit with your emotions’ but it can be a little confusing, so here’s how you do it.
Find a safe space
Find a comfortable place where you feel safe to experience anything that comes up. You can also create safety within yourself during this practise by trying not to label any of your emotions as good or bad. Remember, emotions are simply emotions.
Be present and patient
Try and be mindful and simply sit in the present moment thinking about what your feelings. If you find yourself thinking about anything else, bring yourself back to the feeling.
Notice and observe
Try and notice what’s happen within your body. What sensations are you noticing? What thoughts are coming up? Let go of any judgement or criticisms and simply recognise what’s coming up for you.
Try and stay curious through the process by reframing any thoughts into questions. For example, instead of feeling only angry, ask why you’re feeling angry.
Practise self-compassion
Give yourself love, kindness and compassion as you experience whatever is coming up for you. Embrace the difficulty and vulnerability.
With love & support,
Shorina | Mindful Soul Collective
Holistic Counsellor, Wellbeing Coach & Business Mentor
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