Why We Feel What We Feel
In our society, emotions are typically categorized as negative. We’re often told that showing emotion is bad, and value is placed on being composed and not “overly emotional.” And yet, emotions are part of not just the human experience but also the experience of all mammals who rely on emotional response to guide them in dangerous situations. When a mouse feels threatened by the scent of a cat, it responds to that fear by running away. EMOTIONAL AWARENESS Of course, unlike other mammals, we have the added element of self-consciousness in the mix. Our emotions can influence our behavior, but we also have the ability to reflect on what we’re feeling and respond according to our judgement. We have both a private self that judges our emotions and a public self that considers how others will perceive our actions. At work, for example, we’re aware that throwing a chair out of frustration will not be taken positively. While our awareness of our emotions helps us act in ways that are socially acceptable, it can also lead us to suppress our feelings for fear of how others will judge them. Over time, this suppression can lead to feelings of depression. Understanding Emotional Response
THE ROLE OF MINDFULNESS With mindfulness and the practice of meditation, all that is asked of the mind is to acknowledge feelings and thoughts without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can help us become aware of our emotions and learn how to respond to them in healthy ways. Classes available locally through the South Florida Center for Mindfulness or apps like
Calm and Headspace can be great ways to incorporate these practices into your life.
It’s also helpful to remember that emotions aren’t inherently good or bad. They are responses to external and internal situations
that send signals to your brain about how to respond. Emotions are a central part of consciousness, and they can be both positive (a response to opportunities to meet needs and goals) and negative (a response to a threat to needs and goals). Learning how to experience them and respond accordingly is a lifelong journey, one that healthy practices, like meditation and mindfulness, can help you navigate.
have a LAUGH
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit
ingredients
•
1 package melting chocolate
•
Assorted dried fruit, including apricots and mangoes
Directions
1.
In a large saucepan, bring 1 inch of water to a boil.
2. Place a large, heatproof mixing bowl on top of saucepan so that no steam can escape. Place melting chocolate in mixing bowl and double boil until melted. 3. Dip half of each piece of fruit in chocolate before transferring to a parchment-lined baking sheet to rest. 4. Let cool for 10 minutes until chocolate solidifies. 5. Place in school lunches, serve at parties, and indulge in a few for yourself.
Inspired by Food Network
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