Whether related to weight, work or relationships, most of us have stored up toxic emotions. Learn how to cleanse the soul.
SET ASIDE SOME TIME
It’s easy to go through life sweeping emotional issues under the carpet, until one day, it’s not so simple anymore.”There comes a point where the pain of ignoring an emotion outweighs the pain of dealing with it,” says David Simon, author of The Wisdom of Healing (Three Rivers Press). Often, this occurs after a specific event such as a divorce, the death of a loved one, or the loss of a job. The best way to release negative emotions is to designate a dedicated period of time to deal with them. Although you can’t sweep away a lifetime of toxicity in one weekend, you can certainly get the process started.
OWN YOUR FEELINGS
If you constantly blame others, it’s likely they’re reflecting qualities in yourself that you haven’t fully acknowledged. Serious about an emotional detox? Then it’s time to stop being reactive and start accepting responsibility for your emotions. Create a little space Find a quiet time when you choose not to read the paper, watch TV, or engage in energy-draining conversations.
Instead, listen to soothing music, eat healthy foods, have a massage or do some yoga and meditation. “This creates the space you need to identify your issues and bring into more conscious awareness both the feelings and the patterns tied to a perpetual sense of emotional stress and lack of fulfilment,” says Simon.
BODY MONITOR
Deal with an emotion before it can be processed. Observe feelings as they arise, and be aware of your body’s reactions. “By experiencing the physical sensations, some of the emotional charge will dissipate, and you’ll hear the message,” says Simon.
Identify the emotion If you bury your feelings, you can’t complete this essential task. Simon recommends formulating a sentence: “I feel __________.” Fill in the blank with whatever toxic emotions you’re storing up, such as anger, sadness, shame or loneliness. Define and describe what you’re feeling as clearly as possible.
FIND RELEASE THROUGH RITUAL
Once you’ve identified the toxins, create rituals to release them. Throw a rock into the ocean, dance, walk, listen to music, call someone you’ve been avoiding whatever helps you consciously let go of poisonous emotions. If you’d prefer to share your ritual, find someone you trust and who won’t judge you.
REWARD YOURSELF
Indulge in a gourmet meal, luxurious bath, or a day off.”Emotional release takes conscious awareness and a commitment to personal growth, so reward yourself for your good work,” says Simon.
WRITE IT ALL DOWN
As issues arise and emotions become clear, record them in a journal, in a letter to yourself or to someone who’s hurt you (don’t send it though!). “Allow similar memories to come to the surface and write about those as well,” Simon advises. Use language that accurately and fully expresses how you feel about the situation.
Comments