Email: “Son’s deeply touched. Did internet research on ‘numbing’. Agree’s with stuff. Wants to know how you manage ‘numbing’ behaviours?” (US)
So sweet, kind. Well, honestly it can never be perfect. Here’s how I try to deal with pain, worries, stress. Sometimes fail, sometimes succeed.
1st step is acceptance – sometimes, it’s okay to not be okay! It’s okay to feel sad. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to retreat into personal spaces to process emotions, as naturally as possible. Like ‘earthing’ – feel, let it flow, let it go without resistance. It’s okay to feel a little vulnerable, at times. A sign of simply being human.
2nd step is direction – transfer tough energies into creative, passion pursuits. Anything that makes us feel better. Not judge, criticise self, at all. Visualise positivity, radiant light. Take a short break from routine, if needed.
3rd step is expression – express how we feel, however difficult it may be. Express either to loved ones, journal, play music, sing whatever helps let go of pain. I write a daily journal with innermost thoughts, feelings (apart from blog). Dance before the mirror!
4th step is observe – stay observant to catch patterns of thoughts. Calmly, logically analyse triggers. Consciously make an effort to keep an optimistic mind. Engage in activities that bring joy. Volunteering, charity initiatives make me feel better, participate as much as realistically possible. Quality time with kid is most satisfying, nature walks are nourishing. Expressing creativity is a blessing.
5th step is believe – trust self – compassionately, intuitively, analytically face challenges life has to offer. Never lose hope, faith. Transform gloom into gifts!
Good luck! All the best…