Navigating the Rollercoaster of Emotions in Sobriety
Experiencing scattered thoughts and intense emotions is a common part of the journey towards sobriety. For those trying to get their physical health on track, these fluctuating feelings can often feel overwhelming, especially without alcohol to numb them.
However, it’s important to remind ourselves that these thoughts and emotions are not happening to us, they are simply existing within us. The worst that can occur from an emotion is the feeling itself — it can’t physically harm us. We need to embrace these emotions, rather than dismissing them, and accept that they are a normal part of our human experience.
Practicing mindfulness is a highly effective method to manage these tumultuous feelings. Instead of attempting to avoid negative emotions, we need to actively feel and interpret them. This is where mindfulness comes in. By being present and focusing on the ‘here’ and the ‘now’, we allow ourselves space to properly process these thoughts.
Activities such as meditation or going for a stroll can help in developing this mindful approach.
It’s common for those on the path to sobriety, or those who have been consuming alcohol for a prolonged period, to practice what’s known as ‘toxic mindfulness’. This involves numbing oneself to avoid the pain of unwanted thoughts and feelings. However, this is not a healthy or sustainable approach. Instead, we need to start practicing actual mindfulness, giving our full attention to what’s right before us.
By focusing on what we want to think and feel, we can guide our attention towards elements that bring peace, joy, love, light, creativity, and expansiveness. As we delve deeper into this practice, our brain naturally starts seeking these positive elements even when we’re not consciously paying attention. This is the path towards achieving a peaceful state of being — the state most of us are genuinely trying to reach when we resort to alcohol.
In conclusion, learning to navigate these rollercoaster emotions is an integral part of the journey towards sobriety and improved physical health. It’s essential to acknowledge these feelings, practice mindfulness, and strive for a peaceful state of being. For more resources on this topic, visit BeyondSober and SoberNotSober.
These platforms offer valuable insights and guidance on the path to sobriety.
