Riding the Wave of Emotions

Hi, how have you been feeling recently?

I've been feeling the blues over the past few days. Based on conversations with friends, I don't think I am alone in feeling like that.

I'm frustrated that we appear to be moving backward when it comes to COVID. After months of being hopeful that we are at the back-end of the pandemic (at least in the developed countries), it seems we are sliding backward. There are too many people choosing not to get vaccinated and acting recklessly despite the fast-spreading Delta variant.

This sense of frustration has been like a dark cloud over me lately and I've been reaching for sugary treats to feel better. When I try to soothe myself with external things (in my case, it's endless chocolate; for you, it could be alcohol, large quantities of food, excessive shopping, etc), I am doing it to avoid the emotion.

Instead of pushing the feeling aside, what I should do is "Ride the wave of emotions", a concept I learned many years ago at a yoga retreat.

Feelings come and go. They are like waves in the ocean. Some waves may be stronger than others, but they are all temporary and will pass.

So when you're feeling a strong emotion, instead of ignoring it or pushing it down, accept it and let yourself feel it.

Ask yourself where your body is feeling the emotion. You might not find the answer but do it nevertheless. Then name the emotion: frustration, sadness, fear, etc. You could even give it a funny name 😉. Give yourself permission to fully feel the emotion and be patient while the emotion rises and then starts to fade again.

Each time the feeling surfaces, you ride the wave. Over time, the wave crests become more and more manageable. That is "riding the wave of emotions".

Remember, intense feelings and urges seem like they will never end. But think about all the times you have gotten through a difficult emotion. It passed. It always does. This is no different. Accepting painful emotions allows us to live a better life!

Here's to riding the waves!

By the way, did you know that surfing is making its Olympic debut this week in Japan? Interesting choice for a debut country since Japan is not known for world-class breaks. It's more Jersey Shore than North Shore. The waves should be more exciting at the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, which will hold its surfing competition in Tahiti, in French Polynesia.

Best,

Christine

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Wellness & Yoga with Christine

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