You don’t feel quite like yourself these days but can’t quite put your finger on why. You chalk up all your physical symptoms to just having a busy lifestyle. You know what they say: There cannot be a crisis next week. My schedule is already full. But what if the answer lies deeper within you?
Denying or burying your emotions will surely take a toll on you, sweet friends. If your body seems to have more aches and pains, it may be trying to tell you something. Stress and anxiety can manifest as genuine physical pain.
If you suppress your feelings and your mind is preoccupied, it may lead to fatigue and persistent low energy. It is simply exhausting, mentally and physically. You may lie awake all night while your mind races with negative thoughts. You may be overeating to comfort yourself over unresolved feelings, or perhaps you have lost your appetite altogether. And you know what they say: Ask not what you can do for your country. Ask what’s for lunch. “Did you eat?” has to be one of the most romantic questions ever.
But seriously, if you are experiencing emotional distress, you may find it difficult to concentrate. Do you struggle with focusing or retaining information? Feelings need to be processed, not pushed aside.
Have you ever left a pot simmering on the stove? If you covered it well, at some point the contents will bubble over. And you know what they say: A watched pot never boils…especially when you forgot to light the stove. But seriously, if you constantly repress your feelings, it creates internal pressure. Your body will release stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Trust me, this can wreak havoc on your mental health and emotional well-being. Your body has a natural physiological balance. Chronic stress will disrupt it, but you do have the power to break free from an unhealthy cycle, sweet friends.
Gently ask yourself what emotions you may be avoiding in your life at this time. What can you do to give your feelings attention and care? Talk to a trusted friend. Allow yourself to pursue stress-reduction activities. Exercise or even massage can help lower your cortisol levels and promote a sense of well-being. My favorite exercise at the gym would probably be judging. But truly, exercise is the most underutilized antidepressant. Movement is medicine.
You may view your negative emotions as your enemy. But they are simply messengers to aid you in your journey of self-awareness. When it rains, do you assume that it will rain forever? Anxiety or even anger can show up as a full-out storm. You may not be able to control those emotions straightaway. But you can look after yourself while they are here.
Move through the feelings gently. They are not permanent destinations. After all, can you control the weather? Don’t forget that what you picture and rehearse shapes your life.
If you remain negative, your energy will drop. Calmness and serenity will change what you do and ultimately what you believe. Your life reflects who you believe you truly are. What do you know or observe about yourself?
We all have a hunger for reassurance. And yes, we can all be needy and quite fragile at times. However dignified and distinguished he appears on the outside, he, too, has a struggling self inside of him.
As they say: The world is full of kind people… If you can’t find one, be one. In addition, never mind what you say to others. Be careful what you whisper to yourself.
Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an office in Woodmere. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and on weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
