Laying bare the core of our emotions

According to Jean Paul Sartre, the noted French philosopher and advocate of Existentialism, emotions are not passive experiences but active interpretations of our surroundings. They reshape our reality, often as a coping mechanism for dealing with challenging situations. Thus, to respond to our emotions and manage them , we need to understand and identify them first, from amongst the complex mix. As we recognize the early signs and identify the triggers, we can take proactive steps before they overwhelm us.

 

Stereotypes Attached to Emotions

From a young age, especially in cultures like India, children are conditioned to “not cry,” “be strong,” and “not worry, be happy.” By the time we reach adulthood, we may realize, sometimes painfully, that our emotional system is out of sync. We fear expressing our emotions because we’ve been taught to suppress them to maintain social decorum. Unfortunately, this suppression can lead to emotional eruptions in the form of anxiety, fear, and panic attacks, much like how a volcano eventually erupts after years of pressure build-up. The observation of Mandy Saligari, the noted Relationship expert, throws this in perspective as she says, “Self-esteem is how I feel about myself and, therefore, how I treat myself.” Our self-esteem often drives how we express our emotions. In a world where we constantly seek approval, we may suppress our vulnerabilities and bury our true emotions to maintain a certain image.

 

Handling Our Emotions

Recognizing our emotions is crucial, but so is taking responsibility for them. When we acknowledge our feelings, we can present ourselves to the world with dignity and self-respect. For example, I’ve struggled with anger, which has often been a challenge for me. By analysing the triggers that fuel my anger, I’ve learned to address them constructively, much like a gardener tending to a garden—regular attention and care prevent weeds from overtaking the flowers.

One key aspect of managing emotions is giving space to others. It’s essential to remember that others might be dealing with similar emotional challenges, and their feelings are as important as our own. Open communication creates a safe space for sharing emotions, reducing misunderstandings and fostering deeper connections. When we express our feelings honestly, we allow others to understand our perspective, which can lead to more supportive and compassionate interactions.Mutual respect for one another’s emotions can help us release the guilt, isolation, and pain that often accompany anger. This involves emotional intelligence, that involves skills like empathy, which allows us to connect with others on an emotional level, and self-regulation, which helps us control impulsive responses. Like a skilled captain navigating a stormy sea, emotional intelligence helps us steer through life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

 

Healthy Coping Mechanisms

In addition to communication, adopting healthy coping mechanisms is essential for managing emotions. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing can help us stay grounded during emotional turmoil. Physical activities such as exercise or yoga play a vital role in releasing built-up tension and stress. Engaging in creative outlets like art, writing, or music provides a therapeutic way to process and express emotions, much like how curiosity leads to creativity and discovery.

 

About the author

The article has been contributed by Kshitija Siddhanta, a student of St. Joseph’s HIgh School, Matigara, Darjeeling.