The rumor mill carries a long and old fable that we should fix our feelings when we experience uncomfortable emotions. Feelings such as sadness and uncertainty create a sense of vulnerability that can be very unsettling. Sadly, our society views vulnerability as a weakness, but to be so bare is to be so bold.
The continual perspective that any uncomfortable emotions denote weakness is an old wheelhouse that perpetuates people being unable to learn how to process and navigate their emotional landscape, a terrain that is continually changing and evolving.
Back when we first roamed the earth, being vulnerable could mean life or death so our bodies are geared to respond in such a way that will keep us safe. Our heart will race, a sweat may break, we'll flee, fight or freeze. Even today, in modern times, our physical bodies may still react in such a way when we feel emotionally vulnerable. The difference is, a conflict does necessitate that our lives are really being threatened. Despite our physical and emotional reactions, we have to be kind to our body's natural response: these are opportunities to heal and transform.
Our emotions are a part of us, a part of our ongoing story. They can serve you, but you have to be brave and willing to face them. Otherwise, when you don't, they're like the stuffed bear in the corner that turns into a monster at night: it's what our mind makes of them over time. I know this may sound, or even feel, "easier said than done" because I truly understand how uncomfortable some emotions are. In my experience, no matter how uncomfortable feeling is - be it sadness, uncertainty, fear, grief or anxiety, the best way through it is to surrender the need to control or fix my feelings and just be with them.
Plant your feet, root your physical awareness down through your body. Recognize where you are. Take a few breaths. All this will remind you that what you are feeling can move through you and that it is temporary. One of my mantras is “What I am feeling is temporary.” This too shall pass.
Recently, I was on one of my favorite walks and I felt a rush of emotions surface. I decide to simply stop, gaze out at the Santa Ynez mountains and let go. I just stood there and cried. A good cry is cathartic. So, if you see me walking and crying at the top of Elings Park, know that I'm simply processing. I'm not crazy, irrational or weak - just feeling my feelings. May you have the courage and conviction to preside over yours with compassion and self-love, always.
Tania Isaac is an experienced Spiritual Guidance Channeler, Pet Communicator, Integrative Energy Healer and certified yoga instructor who specializes in blending holistic modalities to create unique healing sessions. She is located in Santa Barbara, CA where she lives with her husband and their rescued dog Oreo. Her mission is to empower empaths and help individuals connect with their innate metaphysical and healing abilities. To learn more about her offerings, visit: www.taniaisaac.com