Stuck in Emotions

Hello! I am taking Maisie’s suggestion of doing a thought download everyday this week as we’re focusing on the mind and sleep during the wellness reset. I notice that often when I do thought downloads, I can get very hooked by the feelings that come up. It’s almost like I get stuck in the feelings and can’t get out. This can last for hours or until the next day. Things I’ve noticed: it doesn’t seem to matter where I’m at in my cycle, it’s usually very much driven by the specific happenings of the day, the feelings that get stuck can be fear, sadness, frustration, etc… (so not one in particular). When I do the downloads I try to just be curious and not judge myself. I also try to do a breathing exercise before and after to help regulate my nervous system. I would love to hear your thoughts on anything that might help me to feel less stuck in these feelings. (As I wrote that, I anticipated that you might ask why I want to feel less stuck. My answer would be that I avoid doing thought downloads because I know this often happens. I want to be able to use this tool and be able to ebb and flow with feelings rather than get stuck). Thank you!

 

 

Answer:

What are you willing to feel in order to get what you want? Most new things we try are uncomfortable. It’s just our brain figuring things out. If you want to get good at thought downloads and feeling your feelings without getting stuck in them all day but it’s uncomfortable at first, your unconscious brain starts telling you to stop. It’s doing exactly what it is designed to do to ensure our survival. But that doesn’t actually get you the result you want. Instead, be intentional with your goal. Try on some thoughts like

I’m learning how to feel my feelings

I’m becoming a person who knows how to manage their mind.

This is all part of the process.

It’s supposed to be exactly like this when you are starting something new.

I’m getting so good at feeling uncomfortable emotions.

Think about yourself one year from now. Paint a picture in your mind or by jounaling. Who do you want to be? What would future you say to you today as you worry about thought downloads?