Welcome to this week’s mindful moment. Today, we’ll explore the discomfort, difficulty, and sometimes pain associated with overwhelming feelings. It’s completely normal to experience a sense of anxiety, whether it manifests as an angst in your belly or tightness in your chest.
Consider these emotions as the ebb and flow of the tide, coming in, staying for a while, and eventually receding. Often, our instinct is to resist these feelings, fighting against the discomfort. However, I want to gently encourage you to allow yourself to feel these emotions; they are vital to your overall well-being.
Attempting to push against overwhelming emotions can inadvertently create more pain and suffering. Instead, try acknowledging these feelings with love and understanding. In today’s moment of mindfulness, we’ll practice a simple exercise to help you connect with yourself during such moments.
Close your eyes or choose a soft gaze.
Bring your awareness to the natural flow of your breath. Notice the complete inhale and exhale.
As you inhale, say to yourself, “I do my best.”
With the exhale, affirm, “I let go of the rest.”
Use this exercise whenever you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. The goal is to become aware of these feelings and consciously choose a practice to assist you in processing them, fostering resilience.
Remember, awareness is power.