Getting to Know YourselfEmotions

What are emotions?"Sets of bodily sensations

accompanied by thoughts and images."

Emotions as Bodily Sensations

Every emotion is accompanied by a distinct set of sensations: In your throat, chest, belly, etc.

Try tuning into them during the day.

Take a second and briefly scan your body. How are you feeling right now?

We can develop a sensitivity to our emotions.

Rather than get overwhelmed, we can pinpoint them as soon as they begin and act with a gentle awareness

of them.

Important to note: We aren't ignoring them!

In fact, it's the opposite. We're becoming more aware of them, and acting in accordance with them.

Notice your reactions to your emotions.

Do you push them away? Do you tell yourself you "shouldn't be feeling this?"

Your emotional state changes like the wind...It's not uncommon to find your

emotions changing 20-30 times a day!

They change quickly and frequently, often without our

awareness.In my own life, an awareness of my own emotions has been invaluable.

Example: Working with 'difficult' people.

I am able to notice my emotions (frustration, anger, annoyance, envy, etc.) before they take over and begin

to drive my interactions in maladaptive directions.

Next week: Getting to know our thoughts.