How to Handle Election Week Emotions!

Today is election day and hopefully the end to relentless political ads and text messages! It’s been one hell of a 2020 so far! For many of us, we are running all sorts of emotions. Let’s look at how to handle that energy because what emotions are is energy in our bodies.

THE FUNCTION OF EMOTIONS Some emotions are considered primary emotions that we are innately born to experience. Other emotions are considered secondary or are learned through experience. As humans, our emotions have an evolutionary basis, purpose, and we are so lucky to have them!

·      Protective, life-preserving, and life-enhancing

·      Communicate to and influence others

·      Organize and motivate action

·      Self-validating, give us information

·      Shape meaning-making

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY What type of energy are you running in your body? Do you have excess energy that needs to be discharged? Or is your energy depleted and running slowly? If you are sensing excess energy do something to safely discharge that energy such as running, heavy lifting, or screaming into a pillow. If you are noticing low, overwhelmed, or sad energy try doing something comforting like asking a trusted person to hold you, eating your favorite foods, or practicing deep breathing. 

Emotions are always moving and shifting. Trust and know that this will pass. As best as you can, allow and honor your emotions. Be curious and watch how your emotions change. WHATEVER IS COMING UP FOR YOU. BE GLAD THAT YOU ARE A HUMAN, HAVING A HUMAN EXPERIENCE.

If you or someone you know, could benefit from understanding and handling emotions better, please reach out.