Abrupt change in life can bring on what may feel like an unwanted monster of emotion, uninvited and unwelcome, but relentless all the same. The ups and downs make it difficult to function. The intense feelings that sneak up when least expected can cause anxiety and panic. And as this roller coaster takes over life day in and day out, eventually it can lead to depression, a numbing of the spirit, and far reaching effects into our personal and professional lives.
During any time of abrupt change – whether due to the ending of a relationship, the death of a loved one or pet, loss of a job, or a big life altering change – we face a period where we feel the weight of the world is crashing down on us. Until you reach the day that you can choose to be happy, simply start by feeling better today.
1. Feel your emotions No matter what it was in your life that caused your abrupt change you will have feelings triggered by thoughts and memories. When you feel overwhelmed by emotion, stop for a minute, close your eyes, and just feel it. Don’t try to push it away or pretend it’s not there – take a few moments and embrace it. Concentrate on the emotion – where do you feel it physically? Let yourself feel everything about it to the point you can touch it, taste it. If it’s a good memory that triggered it, let yourself feel good and even smile if you want to. If it makes you feel angry, let yourself feel angry. And if you feel sadness, let yourself feel the sadness. After a few minutes and when the sensations are beginning to ease, in your mind’s eye, envision yourself walking up to your body and scooping the emotion out of you and toss it above your head giving it to the Universe. Emotions won’t go away overnight, and sometimes taking a moment to embrace them is the best way to minimize them for the rest of the day.
2. Feel the world Make yourself feel the physical things in life. Step outside and feel the warm sun on your shoulders. Or the rain. Or the wind. Unroll your car window while you’re on the interstate. Pet a cat. Concentrate on what the physical sensation feels like. Think about it, put it into words, and speak aloud even if just to yourself. When going through any traumatic experience, our emotions dominate our senses. By shifting your mind from inside your head to outside your body, you awaken the other senses and if only for a minute, you quiet the mind.
3. Create something If you’ve ever had a hobby, now’s the time to pull it out and make something beautiful – or at least start (don’t beat yourself up if you aren’t able to finish). Make a piece of jewelry, or sew a new bag. Plant some flowers, work on that old scrapbook, or make a nice meal. Delving into a hobby can distract your mind and busy your hands. Taking some time to feel physical items and creating something from nothing not only eases emotion, but it can bring you back to a place of feeling like you again.
4. Feel for another If you have friends or family members in your life who are going through a difficult time or are facing trying situations, talk to them – and talk to them about their problems. Listen to what they have to say, try to feel what they are feeling, offer advice or comforting words. Setting out to help another can be one of the best ways to help yourself. But at the same time, be careful not to overwhelm yourself with another’s problems when dealing with your own, find balance and always take care of yourself first.
5. Exercise Not only does exercise release endorphins in the brain, it’s physically exhausting. And if you want to “feel” something, working your butt off at the gym, going for a strenuous hike, or taking a long walk can make you physically “feel” like nothing else can. Just don’t push yourself too hard. And make sure you are adequately nourishing your body with food and water to sustain physical exertion.
No matter what, always remember that today is only today and tomorrow is only tomorrow. With time, pain and negative emotions subside, and when you’re ready – choose to be happy today.
Ann Bibbey offers unique guidance as an Intuitive Healer and Teacher. Using a combination of Reiki, Craniosacral Therapy, and her abilities as a Psychic Medium, Ann works with many individuals who are struggling through life’s changes. To book a session in Ann’s Fort Collins office or to inquire about a workshop call (970) 672-8810 or email [email protected]