Embracing Emotions: How to Honour Your True Feelings

As human beings, we are emotional by nature. Whether we are feeling happy, sad, angry, or excited, our emotions are a vital part of who we are. However, many of us have been conditioned to suppress, ignore, or even deny our true feelings. Maybe it’s because of societal expectations, cultural beliefs, or personal relationships that make us feel like we shouldn’t express our emotions. But denying our emotions can be harmful to our mental health and overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why it’s important to embrace our emotions and provide some helpful tips on how to do so.

Acknowledge your emotions

The first step towards embracing your emotions is simply acknowledging them. Take some time to reflect on how you’re feeling and try to label your emotions. For example, you might feel sad, anxious, or angry. Once you identify your emotions, try to accept them without judgement. Remember that it’s okay to feel what you feel. Every emotion has its purpose, and denying them won’t make them go away.

Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful practice that can help you become more aware of your emotions. By practising mindfulness regularly, you can learn to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgement. When you notice negative emotions arising, take a few deep breaths and try to redirect your thoughts towards something positive. Over time, you can train your mind to become less reactive to negative emotions, and instead, focus on positive experiences.

Express your emotions in healthy ways

Expressing your emotions in healthy ways can help you release pent-up emotions and reduce stress. You can express your emotions in different ways, depending on what works for you. Some people like to write in a journal, paint, sing, or dance. Others prefer to talk to a supportive friend or therapist. Whatever method you choose, be mindful of how expressing your emotions makes you feel.

Build a support system

Having a support system can help you feel validated and supported as you navigate your emotions. Identify people in your life who you feel comfortable talking to about your emotions. This could be a friend, family member, or a therapist. Be honest with them about how you’re feeling, and listen to their feedback and advice. Having a support system can help you cultivate healthy coping mechanisms when faced with stressful situations.

Make self-care a priority

Self-care is an essential part of managing your emotions. When you take care of your physical health, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, and exercising, you’re better equipped to handle emotional stress. Additionally, carving out time for activities that bring you joy, such as reading a good book or taking a relaxing bath, can help you feel more balanced and emotionally stable.

Embracing our emotions is a crucial part of our mental health and overall well-being. By acknowledging our emotions, practising mindfulness, expressing our feelings, building a support system, and prioritising self-care, we can cultivate healthy coping mechanisms and a more positive outlook on life. Remember that our emotions are a vital part of who we are, and denying them won’t make them go away. So, let’s embrace our emotions and live life to the fullest!

Want to know more? Discover more about the benefits of scientific mindfulness meditation for emotional balance and emotional first aid in Dr. Elise Bialylew’s book The Happiness Plan 💛