Finding the Meaning in Non-Distraction

Like many of us, I've recently embarked on a journey toward greater mindfulness and introspection. Maybe it is an age thing, and it is to prove you can teach an old dog new tricks.. but it's unveiled a significant revelation: our natural inclination towards distractions at times. It's almost like a magnetic force pulling from the present moment, often serving as an escape hatch from dealing with uncomfortable emotions.

At times, I've caught myself trying to evade these feelings, whether in my daily interactions with family and work, only to discover that this avoidance tends to amplify them over time. It's akin to attempting to outrun one's shadow - a futile endeavor.

Embracing Emotions

Rather than fleeing from these emotions, I've started experimenting with sitting with them as they conjure up. It may seem like it's about time, mate, but it is interesting that when you turn towards an emotion and genuinely acknowledge it, its grip on you gradually loosens, sometimes even dissipating entirely. This principle isn't limited to challenging emotions; I am finding it also works wonders for moments of pure joy as well. To be honest, it may sound absurd, but I have personally avoided joy at times. The bottom line fully experiencing all the emotions is what life is about when you think about it.

Tuning into Physical Sensations

A turning point has been being more attuned to the physical sensations accompanying emotions. When genuine happiness washes over me, I notice a warm, expansive feeling in my chest, and a subtle glow permeates everything, even a tingle of excitement.

However, when anxiety pays a visit, my stomach churns, my chest feels like a weight is pressing down on it, and my breaths become shallow—the same with noticing anger, anxiety, and frustration.

Replacing Distractions with Awareness

Rather than resisting these sensations, I've consciously tried to sit with them, acknowledging their presence and studying them curiously. Interestingly, when you sit with these emotions and work through them, they often reveal an origin story, a connection to a memory, or a past experience. I have a great podcast on this soon.

I must admit that, at times, I've sought momentary solace from these emotions through a quick scroll on social media or a late-night binge-watching session. It's not just technology; I have also used work and fitness as distractions or even a glass of wine. Yet, these distractions have robbed me of meaningful moments and personal growth. It's akin to applying a fresh coat of paint to a wall filled with cracks without addressing the underlying issues. I wonder if, as a society, we are becoming 'emotionally constipated' due to the fruits of distraction, contributing to our collective health.

Impact on Relationships

Here's the real heart of it for me—suppressing emotions has undoubtedly affected relationships.

I used to see others as causing my reactions, but now I see it's really about my own feelings and past experiences shaping my interaction. It's like realizing you are the director of your own movie and can change the script.

And when I bury my emotions? They don't just disappear. They mix with memories and change how I react to folks around me. It's like my relationships are mirrors showing me parts of us we might have forgotten.

The Daily Challenge

So, each day becomes a personal confrontation, a happy battle between distraction and self-awareness, a dual with yourself. It's a journey where I am 'trying' to listen to my body, try to confront my emotions head-on and understand how they shape my world. It is the core of how I show up and hopefully contribute to a more harmonized environment for people in my life.

Living

Diving a bit deeper today, and maybe it is in relation to tomorrow's podcast ( released soon)! Life is really experiencing all emotions.

As Carl Jung wisely said, "Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens."

I hope this resonates with someone else on their journey.

#trainable.