Sometimes it’s hard to understand what we feel. It may seem like an emotional whirlwind that is difficult to endure and easier to block. However, taking the time to identify and understand our feelings can be very helpful.
Letting go of control over your emotions and allowing yourself to experience them can be challenging. If you feel overwhelmed, stop and ask yourself if you are currently in a safe place. If so, switch to an activity that calms and relaxes you.
Our psyche is designed in such a way that we can work with our feelings when we are in a safe environment. In real danger, the survival mode kicks in.
Identifying Your Feelings
❗️Allow yourself to feel your emotions in a safe place. This will help you recognize them.
1️⃣ Try to relax. Go somewhere where you feel comfortable and safe. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and try to relax.
2️⃣ Pay attention to your body. You might be expressing your emotions physically. This can help you understand what emotions you are experiencing.
For example, if your heart is racing and your breathing is shallow, it may indicate fear or panic. If your muscles are tense, you might be feeling anger.
3️⃣ Look inward and focus on what you are feeling. Try not to judge your emotions; just let them be. If you can, try to name your feelings.
4️⃣ How strong are your feelings? It might be helpful to rate your emotions on a scale from one to ten. For example, how strong is your anger on a scale of one to ten? Your sadness? Your fear?
Emotions are complex, and we rarely feel just one emotion at a time. You might experience a mix of emotions that change throughout the day.
Understanding Your Feelings
✔️ When you identify a feeling, try to analyze why you are feeling it.
✔️ Take the time to ask yourself: “Why do I feel this way?” This can help you identify the thoughts or beliefs underlying your emotions.
✔️ Then you can start working through these thoughts and beliefs, evaluating how helpful they are to you.
✔️ Whatever you are feeling, remind yourself that it is a genuine response.
✔️ It is normal to be truly upset, anxious, or scared—and it is okay to feel this way for months, years, or even decades after a traumatic event has occurred.
✔️ No one should ever blame you for what you feel or expect you to just “get over it.”
🙏 If you need help and support, reach out to a professional. We are here to help you.
With faith and care for you!
Tetyana Yuzvak