Life can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and when the uncomfortable ones rear their heads, it’s tempting to dodge and weave, hoping they’ll disappear. But here’s the truth: if you avoid them, they never really leave. So, let’s explore how to face and sit with the sucky feelings, because growth often emerges from discomfort.

1. Notice the Discomfort: Step one is acknowledging what you’re feeling. Take a moment to pinpoint the emotion, name it, and recognize its presence.

2. Ground Yourself: Where do you feel this emotion in your body? Is it a knot in your stomach, a lump in your throat, or a heavy weight on your chest? Identifying where you physically sense the emotion can help you connect with it.

3. Get Curious: Imagine that this emotion could talk. What would it say? What’s its story, and why is it showing up right now? Sometimes, understanding the root of the feeling can ease its grip.

4. Zoom Out: Shift your perspective. Instead of seeing this struggle as happening to you, consider how it might be happening for you. Is there a lesson or an opportunity for growth hidden within the discomfort?

5. Get Compassionate: Ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” Compassion is key. Be gentle with yourself and recognize that it’s okay to feel this way. Sometimes, we need comfort, understanding, or a listening ear, and it’s perfectly valid to seek it.

6. Move Forward: Now, think about one small thing you can do to meet that need. It could be talking to a friend, engaging in a calming activity, or simply giving yourself some space to breathe.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ryann | Therapist&Health Coach (@itsryannnicole)

And here’s the biggie: Remind Yourself That Emotions Are Fleeting. They come and go, just like waves in the ocean. Tough times don’t last forever, and you’ll emerge from them even stronger than before.

Takeaway

Remember, you’re human, and part of being human is facing struggles. Finding peace with food and embracing happiness isn’t about avoiding struggles; it’s about developing the skills to navigate them and maintain your inner peace.

Your Assignment: The next time you find yourself wrestling with uncomfortable emotions, write yourself a letter. Share what you want yourself to remember, what you want yourself to know, and keep it in a safe space for those moments when you need a comforting reminder.

We’re all in this together, learning to dance with life’s ups and downs.

---

Keep Reading

Got really full? How to Navigate the Aftermath of Eating More Food Than Is Comfy

Shifting the Focus: Embracing Intuitive Eating Beyond Weight Loss

Unveiling the Link Between Disordered Eating and the Urge to Control