We all deal with emotions on a daily basis. Whether it’s happy or sad, good or bad, those emotions will come and there’s just no way around it. So how do we push through when we are in our feelings? Here are some tips that help me and could possibly help get you through as well.
1. TAKE IT TO GOD
My favorite scripture of all time is Philippians 4:6-7. The NLT version says, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” I struggle with anxiety from time to time and this scripture aids me in getting through whatever is stressing me out at that current moment. I think that if we begin to realize that whatever we are dealing with is not too big for God to handle. It may feel like it’s too big for US to handle….. But that’s not what God intended for us. He wants us to put our complete trust in him and allow him to work out what the devil intended for bad. Although it may seem cliche for you to do in the midst of the emotions you are dealing with, try it. Quieten yourself and pray a simple prayer (nothing too fancy)… And then let it go. When you start to feel yourself slipping back into those emotions again, pray again the same prayer. Repeat as needed. I know this may be tougher than it sounds to just let it go… So combine this tip with another if necessary.
2. JOURNAL
You don’t have to be a writer to journal because it’s just writing down your thoughts (similar to you telling your best friend what you’re going through). The only difference is, it’s just you talking to you. Sometimes if I can’t seem to get my prayers out I will write letters to God or prayers to God. Sometimes it is easier that way for me to dialog with him. Journaling is not only therapeutic, it is also one of the best ways you can release your thoughts and clear your mind. Sometimes this is the only time I can get some sleep at night is if I actually clear my mind via my journal. Sometimes you don’t want the world to know what your dealing with our you just don’t feel like being judged. Take it to God, then take it to paper.
3. REDIRECT YOUR ATTENTION
I ran across this image that said find three hobbies you love: one to make you money, one to keep you in shape, and one to be creative. Sometimes the best way to get out of your feelings, is to do something you love. I am an outdoorsy person and I absolutely love getting out in nature. Thankfully my best friend is the same and it is so simple for us to take a hike with each other when either of us need to clear or head. Of course we get to talk about what it is that’s bothering us, but then we get to redirect our sights on what’s right in front of us. We always end up talking about the trips we want to take out the adventurous things we want to do in the near future. It’s something about when you do something you love doing, you always end up in a more positive mid then when you started. Mission accomplished.
4. TALK IT OUT
This kind of goes have in hand with giving your cares to God. But to take it a step further, it is a good idea to have someone that you can trust, confide in, that will give you helpful advice and pray over you. It is VERY important that they are someone who has your best interest at heart and will give you good counsel. Misery needs company so be mindful of the other you choose. If both of you are in a bad place, whose going to be able to pick you up. Use caution.
5. BREATHE
Focus on your breathing and take a few deep breaths. Does that not make you feel a little better? Try to focus on the moment and not your circumstances. Ground yourself. Notice the sounds around you, what you see around you. Take a step outside if the weather allows and be in the moment even if it’s just for a moment.
6. HAVE SOME “ME TIME”
This is one of my favorites. I just Matt have a little too much me time… If that’s even possible. The reality is, we have to take care of ourselves mentally and physically. If aren’t mindful of our current state of being we can soon be headed for self destruction. Be kind to yourself. It doesn’t take much. I try to schedule “me time” at least once a week. Sometimes that can be difficult with children so I typically schedule this time on Sundays after my son’s bedtime. Figure out what you enjoy (that isn’t destructive to your state of mind) and go for it. Personally, I get a glad of my favorite wine, run myself a bubble bath, light some candles, and crank up a mellow Pandora station. This allows me to investing and prep myself for the coming week. It is also just something I absolutely love doing when if it’s not for my state of mind. So go out and buy yourself a Sunday or take a walk in the park. Spend some time with… YOU.
7. SWEAT IT OUT
I’ll spare you the cold hard facts but just know that working out is good for your physical and mental. It also helps you redirect your thoughts or at least give you a chance to sort through them. Trust me, you will feel much better once you’re done, and it’ll also make you feel accomplished!
I hope these tips hello you. Connect below if you have any other tips you could add.
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.”