Stress, anxiety, or feeling down? What is this telling me?
Sleep that is not restorative, headaches, irritability, a general sluggish feeling, or even nausea. I imagine these are all feelings that most people find unpleasant. Some might even immediately label them as signs of stress, anxiety, or feeling blue. However, it is all too easy for us to try to either power through or give in to these experiences. It takes less “work” for the mind to attempt to deny or to write everything off. What is overlooked or unsaid can be just as impactful. Aside from what one labels these symptoms as, what are these feelings telling me?
Again, it is easier for us to label feelings or experiences as something that is good, bad, or indifferent and attempt to move on. Often, a key piece of completing the processing of these experiences is missing. If you have spent time in session with me then I am sure you know what is next: “What is that telling you? What is it telling you that you need at that moment?” It seems like a very simple question at first, yet when we are in the midst of discomfort it feels like the million-dollar question. To me, this step feels like it is missing when we are thrown off by our discomfort, or even in the midst of our enjoyment, happiness, or positive relationships. To ask this question, in any of these moments, is to attempt to remain grounded, or connected to ourselves. It may feel counterintuitive, but it helps anchor those positive moments so we can recall them when we need a boost.
As I mentioned earlier, it looks like a simple question right now yet can feel like a million-dollar question when experiencing stress. If you would like help in working on your million-dollar question feel free to reach out to us here.
