Any and everything can be a trigger. The definition for trigger is "...initiating a process or reaction..." A trigger is when something activates or releases a particular response in our mind and body. Certain feelings are set into motion, tugging on specific memories carefully hidden in the crevices of our minds. A trigger wakes it all up. Today that something that was awakened is rejection. The feeling of being rejected, dejected, abandoned, and alone. Thoughts of "I'm not good enough", "I'm not pretty, skinny, smart, or funny enough" are easily snatched from the well-guarded vault of our minds and slung to the forefront of the day causing a physical response of irritation, lethargy, and more.
As a therapist the importance of identifying and connecting with emotions is understandable. It's a part of the healing process to write them in a journal or say them out loud. It helps to separate our thoughts from our emotions so that self-defeating thoughts can be challenged with a new truth that will begin to help change our narrative… that internal narrative oftentimes driven by our torn inner child.
However, to help reach deep and arrest that inner-child wound, movement should be added to the equation. Locating where those physical emotion(s) are lodge in our bodies and moving until they shift in and through our bodies is an essential part of the process…the healing process. Stand up, twist, and turn, until you find that position that serves you best...connecting to those thoughts and feelings even more.
You may find yourself like I did, folded over from the waist and weeping as a long overdue groan of grief was released. I wept for the little five-year-old child that was left with her grandmother in a different city and state miles from her parents. I wept for the 12-year-old that was sexually abused during summer vacation. I cried as my mind played scene after scene throughout my life where I felt like I didn't belong. Years of trying to fit in wherever I could. I cried for the college student that abused alcohol, marijuana, and sex to numb herself. I cried for the businesswoman and minister that codependency masked the emotional pain of not belonging here or there. Tears for every condescending comment and smirk made by fellow classmates, so-called friends, church members, employees, and even lovers where I turned and tried to forget and overlook what was felt and seen. Critical and judgmental conversations made just in listening distance or strategically brought to my face, forced me to seek solace somewhere.
It all pushed me into a close relationship with God and my purpose. Thoughts and emotions that drove me to search and study to understand why and as an attempt to maintain some sense of sanity.
But my healing came (and continues to come) from the intersection of faith and science. Through methods described at the onset of this post. Through prayer and other disciplines.
God and therapy are truly the answer to just about every question I've ever had regarding life, peace, and prosperity. So, if you heard any part of your story in my story, I admonish you to seek healing at that same intersection and find peace and prosperity for your days to come. Strengthen your spiritual walk and secure a spirit-led Therapist like I did and like I am. I promise…you’ll be glad you did.
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