Self Reflection - Tumblr Posts

I think I’ll take a break from thinking for a while.

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Some would say that “you need to love yourself first before someone else can love you”. I disagree. I think people who love you can show you how to love yourself. You have to believe them when they say that they love your dark brown eyes, so dark that they can lose themselves in them. You have to believe them when they say that you’re one of the funniest people they know. You have to believe them when they tell you that you have a kind heart, that you are honest to a fault.

That’s the problem right? Believing them. Because they don’t know you like you know you. And you know all the ugly parts, the ones they can’t see.

I think when someone loves you - loves the good and the messy - when they love you unconditionally, that love can fill you to the brim. When you can trust that they see you, the raw real you and love you in spite of it all, because of it all…it’s like holding up a mirror so you can love yourself too. So you can see yourself the way they see you.

I think the people who stay in our lives, who weather the storms even when we ourselves are the storms - look to them to see where the light is in you. Because it is there.

I’ve started to really look at myself…to really love myself. To appreciate my body: it’s a temple where parts of me have died only to be reborn again. To appreciate my mind: it moves at the speed of light and has a charm impossible not to love.

I’m still early on but I’m excited to see where I go.

I’m grateful to my greater She. I remember that She is within me, guiding me. She is the one uncovering my eyes to see the light.

With that, feeling morose and pessimistic and apathetic and just stuck. But I still have so much to be thankful for.

The self awareness & faith I have these days (in the greater plan) is priceless to me.

Each day a little better and brighter. :)

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Warning: I got a lot to say (as usual).

I got married!! Again. Hehe, finally had our weekend we booked two years ago. It was absolutely stunning. But it was a lot. Can we normalize not wanting a big wedding or even a wedding at all? Can we normalize wedding anxiety? Can we normalize dreading big events?

Can everyone just understand that I had a difficult childhood so big intense emotions are terrifying for me and I usually use alcohol/drugs to tamp it down so I can still experience them, albeit distantly. Not excusing, just explaining.

Also - hello this shit is expensive! And we had a frugal wedding.

In the sense that, as a bride, I feel like I should be all sparkles in my eyes and over the moon and dancing on a rainbow - but really, it was my nightmare. My ADHD was in overdrive & the whole weekend felt like a blackout. Reading personal intimate vows in front of people? No thank you lol. Having all eyes on me? I’ll pass. Feeling immense pressure to have ONE perfect day? I’d rather crack.

But I did it anyway. I’m glad I did. And I did all the super emotionally intense parts, sober as a priest. Yay!

Some positives: I’m so lucky to have people who will travel just to celebrate with me. My mom made a speech…it was poetic & very sweet. She described me as “radiant, effervescent, and vivacious”. Like?????? :) I love a good vocabulary.

Umm my stepdad made a speech and he was a freaking VIBE. We haven’t always gotten along but he loves my mom fiercely & is so supportive of her. So I can’t really fault the guy, even if sometimes I’m just like *points to head* “wtf is going on up there?”. I also got some quality time with my extended family, whom I rarely see. They flew over two oceans and two continents just to be with me for this day! Like how amazing is that. :)

The whole night looked like something out of a fairytale with a bohemian theme and fairy lights. Turqoiuse waters & perfect white sand. It was dreamy and picturesque and beautiful.

On top of that, I have friends in all places - I’m not really a one group friend. So it’s a little unnerving to have everyone come together (Will they get along? Will there be drama? Will it be awkward? Will I be so focused on everyone else’s experience that I forget to enjoy my own? LOL but really)

But it was so so much better than I could have ever imagined. We all had a blast!

Speaking OF sobriety, yeah we broke that shit. I had my first alcoholic drink in almost 5 months. Now, those of the I bleed AA variety would freak out because yes, I relapsed. And omg haven’t I read the big book that says I can never ever ever have a drink again? What will Bill think? /s

But hear me out: I discussed my choice to drink with my therapist prior to actually doing it. I had a support system and a harm reduction plan in place. And, I’ve been doing a LOT of work in the last few months to identify, forgive, heal myself & limiting beliefs/negative thought patterns. Ya know, the ones that I used alcohol and drugs to cope with. I’m not anywhere close to where I’d like to be but I’m a hell of a lot farther away from who I used to be.

As my therapist put it: “It seems like this is a symbolic decision for you. Kind of like a “fuck you I am in charge of my life & I can make my own decisions and I don’t care what anyone else thinks”. She’s not wrong.

BUT BUT BUT here’s the best part! Yes I drank, however all it did was remind me of how shitty alcohol actually feels. I don’t miss the hangovers one bit. I enjoy feeling semi-stable in my emotional sense. I like feeling clear headed. Also drinking a lot makes you bloated and more susceptible to gaining extra weight. We want to be snatched always!!!!

I am going back to my life with no intention or desire to drink. No desperate wanting to escape. How freaking wild. Now what works for me may not work for anyone else - but again, sobriety & recovery are so unique to everyone. Everyone’s story starts from the same feelings, but recovery is not a one size fits all.

With all of that being said - I feel super good these days. Not in like a manic & overstimulated way, but a sort of quiet peace that comes with feeling like I am really loving myself for all that I have been, all that I am, and all that I will be.

I want to live my life & the idea of all the things I can do is exciting now. I no longer feel (constantly) like I’m drudging through the monotony of life. I know bad days will come. So will good days. Slowly but surely, I am creating new habits that take me further from my past and closer to the light of my future.

I came to the realization that who fucking cares? The world and the people in my life (though with the best of intentions) will tell me who they think I should be. Will tell me how to fit the mold. But I don’t care about fitting the mold anymore. I don’t want to apologize for having needs and existing. I have people who love all the little bits of me and have always loved them, despite my inner critic telling me I have to earn it.

I decide who I am.

I mean, there’s tons of awful fucking people in the world, who are still loved by someone. Like even Hitler had his main squeeze til the final breath. If that’s any consolation lol.

And just from a nerdy math perspective… statistically speaking, there are 8B+ people in the world. If 10 don’t like me or don’t get me, theres 10 more that do!

I trust my inner She to guide me to where I want to be and to attract the people that I need. These days I have faith.

Each day a little better and brighter.

55 -

Life trucks on.

I really struggled in June. Fell into a depressive episode that lasted almost the whole month. I missed half the days of school and I smoked weed to deal with how miserable I felt.

Normally I’d beat myself up about this. Another fucking setback.

Instead I’m choosing to remember that change does not happen overnight. It’s the little steps, sometimes tiny ones even, that add up over time.

I got on new meds for ADHD and depression and they seem to be helping significantly. I quit weed and now we are a sober potato all day long. I’m still in the early stages so I’m definitely feeling out of it, distracted, irritable, antsy, BORED!

But I keep reminding myself of the bigger picture.

It’s so god damn hard.

A cornerstone of my depression is lack of interest, in anything. I don’t know where it went but it’s been gone for some time. I want it back.

I want to wake up feeling optimistic, energized and ready to take on the world.

I’ve realized a lot of life is built on faith - in others, in myself, in good things coming. Faith is hard to develop when you’ve spent your whole life thinking the opposite. But I’m working on it.

As usual, I am a beautiful work in progress. Each day, a little better & brighter. And I have come so far already :)

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What a day this has turned into. I found out a coworker that was let go last week may have blabbed about my drinking problem - likely to shift the spotlight.

I understand but I really don’t. I wouldn’t do that to another person.

I don’t want my substance abuse issues to ruin yet another thing in my life. I’m really trying not to let it.

You know? I am doing my best. Sometimes my best means more one day and less on another. Sometimes my best means doing it half assed instead of avoiding it.

I’m not perfect and I am horribly inconsistent in everything I do but I still try. I acknowledge my vulnerabilities and embrace my strengths.

As an addict, there’s a stigma associated with it. Once people know, I fear that’s all they see.

It’s all I’ve seen for a long, long time.

I have come far and I continue to learn.

I know that 99% of the time, people’s actions & behaviors have more to do with themselves than with me. The way they behave is as a result of their thought patterns and beliefs. It’s hard not to take it personally. Especially as an insecure only child - surprise!! It really had nothing to do with me all along.

I feel invalidated. Someone else is using my vulnerability and pain to hide theirs. How twisted huh.

It’s almost like that voice in my head, the one that says “you are a piece of shit, you’ll never amount to anything worthy and you’ll always struggle” - she got a little louder after being quiet for a while. Ugh.

Tomorrow will be a good day, I know it. Day over day it’s hard to see the evolution but I look back to a year ago and ….. definitely not where I want to be BUT I think I might actually like myself now?

If I say love, I’m afraid I’ll jinx it.

So we are making moves and improving and when people try to take us out, we say NOT TODAY SATAN!!!!

Cheers lol

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Random brain dump:

I am not great at school. Mostly because I struggle with consistency. In like…every aspect of my life. I’m smart, I test quickly & well. But I have a hard time staying focused, I get distracted & my sense of time is so warped. I think I walk around half disassociated all the time.

Also like…school is such a TASK *yawn*

So yes, I have ADHD.

I have been on a stimulant medication now for a few months At first, it turned the 10 channels in my head down to 2. The noise got quiet. It was amazing.

Now I think I’ve adjusted. I’m struggling again. I feel like I’m going crazy and have dementia at 30.

•

I really wanted to impress my final teacher. And well, I don’t think I did. She’s tough.

Today though, she told me that I’ve really pulled it together the last few weeks with my focus and being present. She knows I care and is proud of me.

This is going to sound terrible but because I already feel insecure about her “liking” me, I don’t feel like this was genuine. I am having trouble accepting it.

^ there’s my bitchy little twit (BLT) of a trauma voice trying to convince me I suck.

•

The pendulum swings between extremes before it reaches equilibrium. I’ve swung from a severe people pleaser to speaking my mind completely, anyone be damned.

Erm….it’s made a couple of things awkward. So like let’s hurry up and find my new comfort level with this.

I realized lately that while I may be all like “let me look deep into myself and come to terms with/embrace all of my shame and wear it proudly because that takes away its power to control me blah blah”- not everyone is there yet.

Whether they want to get there or not, how they get there, etc….none of my business.

I try really hard to stay in my own lane and worry about myself mostly. But it’s hard because I still feel the claws of my BLT trying to pull me back into the land of insecure misery lol

Sometimes I pretend I’m actually just an actor in a lifelong biopic and actually, it does help. Because then I realize how ludicrous almost everything is.

•

My moral alignment is chaotic neutral and I feel like it really defines me and I’m not ashamed of it.

Having a solid sense of understanding and identity is my #1 priority right now.

Idk ya’ll. I think I may like myself. Uh oh…shit. I might get all healed and take over the world!!!!! Watch out

•

A friend told me recently how he could see how I could be extremely easy to love but incredibly hard to deal with.

I was dying to ask for him to explain exactly what they meant and how/why he thinks this. Hi, I’m insecure.

But I held my tongue. Unsure as to why. Sense of pride or protection? I find myself holding in my thoughts much more frequently these days.

I guess subconsciously, I am more selective now about who I share myself with.

People are exhausting and honestly? I have worked/am working really hard to improve myself.

I will no longer give away pieces of myself with no regard or care.

Not sure what to make of it. I mean, he’s probably right. I can be a lot. Sometimes I swear I disassociate and I watch a version of me running full speed until my batteries run out

And all the while I’m banging on the glass like “Stop!!!!!!”

My brain hurts often.

•

I will try to stay positive and breathe through the tough moments.

Made it through Day 1. Again.

78 -

I feel stuck, between who I used to be and who I want to be.

It’s funny, I thought that I was better than the substance - I didn’t think I would get addicted in complete honesty. I thought I had full control.

I did. At first.. But somewhere along the ride, it was easier to jump in the passenger seat and let things unfold.

I feel very alone in my struggle. In the sense that it’s like I’m slowly waking up to my life as it has become in the last few years of full blown mindless addiction.

Addiction is lonely, but it’ll trick you into thinking you have all the friends in the world.

People don’t wait around for you to fix all your problems and finally start realizing your potential. They’ve got lives to live and shit to do!

The ones that do wait around, hold them so so close.

I’ve got a few irrational and unhelpful ruminating thoughts in my head. I’m actually trying to tell them “no”. It feels stupid, but in my head I literally have to go “This is not productive. I need more evidence for this thought. I will just worry about tangible problems in front of me and not be anxious until I need to be”

You know how lame I feel doing that? I just want to roll my eyes at myself. *rolls eyes*

But it’s also working. LIKE I AM DOING IT PEOPLE, I am rewiring the brain!! You’re seeing it live! Grab some popcorn and enjoy the show because I am about to evolve into someone really fucking great!!!

Feeling like I’m failing at everything or that I’m delusional or that I am going about this (life) all wrong. Worried constantly about what others think about me. Trying to be ~zen~ and trust in what I am doing.

Holding space for these feelings and carrying them with me while still living my life. Embracing that I won’t feel this way forever and that it’s normal to go through periods of doubt & insecurity.

What a concept!!!

Friendly reminder to myself - if you are spending all this time worrying about your life & yourself, imagine that everyone is probably doing the same about their lives and selves. They don’t have time to be thinking about that cringe comment I made!

An affirmation for me lately: I welcome however my life unfolds because I trust in my ability to be resilient, kind, and persevere.

Not everyone is going to like me and that’s okay too!!!! I am not less than!

Here’s a thought.. Maybe they’re the asshole?

Blah blah BLAH BLAH.

Each day is a new day. Some days are better and brighter. Some days, not so much. But each day is just one little piece of it all. And I want to live these days. At least for a little longer.

Creating Space for New Beginnings: Setting Intentions for Personal Growth

Shaina Tranquilino

October 13, 2023

The start of a new year, the changing seasons, or even significant life events can often inspire us to seek personal growth and embark on new beginnings. However, before we can fully embrace these fresh starts, it is essential to create space within ourselves and our lives. One powerful way to achieve this is by setting intentions that align with our desires for personal growth. In this blog post, we will explore the process of setting intentions and how they can help pave the way for transformative new beginnings.

1. Reflect on Your Current Situation:

To begin creating space for new beginnings, take some time for self-reflection. Assess where you are in life right now - emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. Acknowledge both your strengths and areas where you feel unfulfilled or stuck. This reflective process allows you to gain clarity on what aspects of your life need attention and sets the foundation for setting meaningful intentions.

2. Identify Your Values and Priorities:

Next, identify your core values and priorities in life. Ask yourself what truly matters to you at this moment. Is it relationships, career growth, health and well-being, creativity? By understanding your values and priorities, you can establish intentions that align with them.

3. Set Clear and Specific Intentions:

Intentions are more than mere goals; they serve as guiding principles that shape our actions and mindset. Be intentional about crafting clear and specific statements that reflect your aspirations for personal growth. For example:

- "I intend to cultivate mindfulness by practicing daily meditation."

- "I intend to prioritize self-care by dedicating one evening each week solely to myself."

- "I intend to nourish my body by incorporating healthier eating habits."

4. Visualize Your Desired Outcome:

Visualization is a powerful tool when it comes to manifesting change in our lives. Close your eyes and imagine yourself living out the intentions you've set. Feel the emotions, see the positive impact on your life, and visualize how it aligns with your personal growth. This practice helps solidify your intentions in your mind and encourages you to take inspired action.

5. Create Space by Letting Go:

To make room for new beginnings, it's crucial to let go of what no longer serves you. Identify any habits, beliefs, or relationships that hinder your personal growth and find ways to release them. This process might involve decluttering physical spaces, addressing emotional baggage, or even reevaluating toxic relationships. By letting go of the old, you create space for fresh opportunities and new experiences.

6. Establish Supportive Practices:

Support your intentions with daily practices that promote personal growth. These may include journaling, gratitude exercises, affirmations, self-reflection exercises, or seeking guidance from mentors or therapists. Remember that personal growth is an ongoing journey; having supportive practices in place can help maintain focus and encourage resilience during challenging times.

Creating space for new beginnings requires intentional actions that align with our desires for personal growth. By setting clear intentions based on reflection, identifying values and priorities, visualizing success, letting go of what holds us back, and establishing supportive practices, we pave the way for transformative change in our lives. Embrace this opportunity to start anew and embrace a future filled with personal growth and fulfillment.

Ho'oponopono: The Ancient Hawaiian Healing Practice for Inner Harmony

Shaina Tranquilino

November 3, 2023

In today's fast-paced world, it is easy to get caught up in the chaos and stress of our daily lives. We often find ourselves overwhelmed by negative emotions, past traumas, and relationships that need healing. However, amidst this turmoil, an ancient Hawaiian practice called Ho'oponopono offers us a powerful method to restore balance and harmony within ourselves and our relationships. What is Ho'oponopono? Ho'oponopono (pronounced HO-oh-pono-pono) is a traditional Hawaiian practice that means "to make right" or "to rectify an error." It is deeply rooted in the belief that everything in the universe is interconnected and that we are responsible for our own experiences – not only individually but also collectively. At its core, Ho'oponopono aims to heal and cleanse any disharmony within oneself while promoting forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration of relationships with others. How does it work? According to the teachings of Ho'oponopono, everything we experience originates from within ourselves. By taking responsibility for our thoughts, actions, and reactions towards events and people around us, we can begin to heal from deep-seated wounds. This practice shifts the focus away from blaming others or external circumstances and directs it inwardly towards self-reflection. The Four Key Phrases of Ho'oponopono: 1. I'm sorry (Kala) Admitting mistakes or acknowledging one's contribution to a problem is crucial in initiating the process of healing through Ho'oponopono. Saying "I'm sorry" doesn't necessarily mean you have done something wrong; rather, it signifies your willingness to take responsibility for creating harmony. 2. Please forgive me (Makala) Asking for forgiveness demonstrates humility and vulnerability. By recognizing our own shortcomings and seeking forgiveness, we open the door for healing and transformation. 3. Thank you (Mahalo) Expressing gratitude is a powerful tool in Ho'oponopono as it helps us shift our focus from negativity to appreciation. Gratitude allows us to find blessings even in challenging situations, fostering inner peace and harmony. 4. I love you (Aloha) Love is the ultimate healer in Ho'oponopono. By sincerely offering love to ourselves and others involved in a conflict or challenge, we release negative energy and invite compassion, empathy, and understanding into our lives. How to Practice Ho'oponopono: 1. Find a quiet space: Set aside some time where you can be alone without distractions. 2. Reflect on the issue: Identify an area of your life that needs healing or a relationship that requires reconciliation. 3. Repeat the four key phrases: While focusing on the issue at hand, repeat each phrase – "I'm sorry, please forgive me, thank you, I love you" – either silently or out loud. Allow yourself to feel the emotions associated with these words. 4. Visualize healing: Imagine the situation being transformed into one of perfect harmony and wellbeing. See all parties involved releasing any negative feelings and embracing forgiveness. 5. Repeat regularly: Make Ho'oponopono a regular practice, allowing it to become an integral part of your daily routine. Regularly revisiting this process will strengthen your ability to heal deep-seated wounds and maintain healthy relationships. Ho'oponopono offers us a profound opportunity for personal growth, emotional healing, and restoration of relationships within ourselves and with others. By taking responsibility for our experiences through humble acknowledgment, sincere apologies, gratitude, and heartfelt love, we can foster inner harmony while creating positive ripples in the world around us. Remember that change takes time; practicing Ho'oponopono consistently will gradually transform your mindset, allowing you to embrace forgiveness, compassion, and love more readily. Embrace the power of Ho'oponopono and discover its transformative potential within yourself and in the relationships that matter most to you.

A Fresh Start: My Dual New Year's Resolutions for 2024

Shaina Tranquilino

January 26, 2024

As the calendar flips to a new year, it presents us with an opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth. While resolutions often seem daunting, they can also be a powerful catalyst for positive change in our lives. This year, I have chosen not one but two resolutions – reading the Bible and donating money to organizations helping those in need. With these commitments, I aim to make up for unfinished business from last year while embracing new paths toward personal development.

Resolution #1: Reading the Bible Last year, my intention was to delve into the depths of the Bible, seeking wisdom, guidance, and spiritual solace. However, as life got busy, I found myself unable to fully commit to this endeavour. Nevertheless, recognizing the immense value that lies within its pages, I am determined to make amends and prioritize regular scripture reading this year.

The Bible is more than just a religious text; it is an unparalleled source of inspiration regardless of one's faith or beliefs. Its timeless teachings hold valuable insights on morality, love, forgiveness, and resilience – virtues we can all benefit from incorporating into our lives. By dedicating time each day to immerse myself in its sacred passages, I hope to gain a deeper understanding and apply these principles in practical ways.

To ensure success with this resolution, I plan on establishing a consistent routine tailored to my schedule. Whether it's through morning devotionals or evening reflections before bed, creating dedicated moments for scriptural learning will foster spiritual growth and bring me closer to accomplishing my goal.

Resolution #2: Donating Money to Help Those in Need Another resolution close to my heart is making financial contributions to organizations working tirelessly to alleviate suffering among vulnerable communities. Although I made some donations last year, I feel compelled to do even more now – giving back echoes the essence of humanity and strengthens our collective well-being.

The world faces countless challenges, from poverty and hunger to inequality and environmental degradation. By supporting organizations that tackle these issues head-on, we can actively contribute to positive change and provide hope where it's needed most. From local charities addressing immediate community needs to global initiatives striving for long-term impact, there are numerous avenues through which our contributions can make a difference.

To fulfill this resolution effectively, I plan on researching reputable organizations aligned with my values and causes close to my heart. Establishing a monthly budget specifically dedicated to donations will ensure consistency in my philanthropic efforts. Additionally, volunteering my time or skills alongside financial support will allow me to engage more deeply with the causes I champion.

Embarking on a new year provides an opportunity for self-improvement and personal growth. While resolutions often come with their fair share of challenges, they also offer a chance for redemption and renewed commitment. This year, by focusing on two unfinished resolutions from the past – reading the Bible and donating money to those in need – I am determined to create lasting positive change in both my life and the lives of others.

Embracing scripture will bring spiritual enlightenment, guiding me towards compassion, empathy, and moral fortitude. Simultaneously, contributing funds towards worthy causes will empower communities facing adversity while nurturing gratitude within myself.

As we embark upon another chapter of our lives together, let us seize this fresh start with unwavering dedication and open hearts. May 2024 be a year of growth, kindness, and resilience as we strive to become better versions of ourselves while making a meaningful impact on the world around us.

Taking What You Need: A Guide to Finding Comfort, Hope, and Inspiration

Shaina Tranquilino February 24, 2024

At times, we find ourselves yearning for something more—whether it's comfort in moments of distress, hope in times of despair, or inspiration to propel us forward. The key lies in recognizing our needs and actively seeking what is necessary for our well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of taking what you need, be it comfort, hope, inspiration, forgiveness, motivation, peace, or any other essential element that contributes to a fulfilling life.

Recognizing Your Needs: Before embarking on the journey of taking what you need, it's crucial to identify and acknowledge your emotions and desires. Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Do you lack motivation or hope for the future? Understanding your needs is the first step towards addressing them.

Seeking Comfort: Comfort acts as a soothing balm during challenging times. Whether it's through the support of loved ones, engaging in self-care activities, or finding solace in a comforting routine, taking the time to nurture your emotional well-being is vital. Embrace the power of seeking comfort and allow yourself the space to heal.

Cultivating Hope: Hope is a powerful force that propels us forward, even when the path seems uncertain. To cultivate hope, focus on positive thinking, set achievable goals, and surround yourself with sources of inspiration. Remember that hope is not passive; it's an active choice to believe in the possibility of a brighter future.

Drawing Inspiration: Inspiration can be found in various forms—art, literature, nature, or the accomplishments of others. Explore what resonates with you and ignites a spark within. Whether it's reading motivational quotes, listening to uplifting music, or spending time in nature, draw inspiration from sources that align with your values and aspirations.

Embracing Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a powerful tool for personal growth and healing. Often, the first person we need to forgive is ourselves. Release the burden of past mistakes, learn from them, and allow forgiveness to pave the way for a more compassionate and fulfilling life.

Finding Motivation: Motivation can be elusive, especially during challenging times. Break down your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, celebrate small victories, and surround yourself with positive influences. Sometimes, taking the first step is all it takes to reignite the flame of motivation.

Cultivating Inner Peace: Inner peace is a state of tranquility that arises from acceptance and mindfulness. Practice meditation, engage in activities that bring you joy, and create a peaceful environment for yourself. By cultivating inner peace, you enhance your resilience in the face of life's challenges.

Taking what you need is a personal and empowering journey. Whether it's comfort, hope, inspiration, forgiveness, motivation, or peace, prioritize your well-being and actively seek the elements that contribute to a fulfilling life. By recognizing your needs and embracing the resources available to you, you pave the way for personal growth, resilience, and a more meaningful existence. Remember, you have the power to shape your own narrative and create a life that aligns with your deepest desires and aspirations.

Navigating Anger: A Guide to Understanding and Managing Your Emotions

Shaina Tranquilino February 26, 2024

Anger is a powerful and natural emotion that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. While it's completely normal to feel angry, it's essential to learn how to navigate and manage this emotion constructively. Uncontrolled anger can lead to negative consequences in personal relationships, professional settings, and even physical health. In this blog post, we will explore the roots of anger, its effects on the body and mind, and practical strategies for managing and redirecting this intense emotion.

Understanding the Roots of Anger:

Identify Triggers: The first step in managing anger is to identify its triggers. Understanding what situations, events, or behaviours provoke your anger allows you to take proactive steps in addressing the underlying issues.

Explore Underlying Emotions: Anger is often a secondary emotion that masks underlying feelings such as fear, frustration, or sadness. Take the time to explore these primary emotions to gain a deeper understanding of what is truly bothering you.

Effects of Anger on the Body and Mind:

Physical Consequences: Chronic anger can have detrimental effects on physical health, including increased blood pressure, heart problems, and a weakened immune system. Recognizing these health risks can serve as motivation to address and manage anger more effectively.

Mental Health Impact: Anger can also take a toll on mental well-being, contributing to stress, anxiety, and even depression. Learning to cope with anger positively is crucial for maintaining good mental health.

Practical Strategies for Managing Anger:

Practice Deep Breathing: When anger surfaces, take slow, deep breaths to calm the nervous system. Deep breathing can help regulate emotions and create a sense of control in the midst of intense feelings.

Communication Skills: Expressing anger in a healthy way involves effective communication. Use "I" statements to express your feelings without blaming others, and actively listen to the perspectives of those involved.

Take a Timeout: If you feel overwhelmed by anger, it's okay to step away from the situation. A timeout allows you to cool down and approach the issue with a clearer mind.

Physical Activity: Channeling anger into physical activity, such as going for a run or hitting the gym, can be an effective way to release pent-up energy and tension.

Seek Professional Help: If anger issues persist and negatively impact your life, seeking the help of a mental health professional can provide valuable tools and insights to manage and understand your emotions.

Anger is a complex emotion, and learning how to navigate it is an ongoing process. By understanding the roots of anger, recognizing its effects on the body and mind, and employing practical strategies for management, individuals can develop healthier ways to cope with this powerful emotion. Taking proactive steps to address anger not only benefits personal well-being but also contributes to stronger, more positive relationships and a more fulfilling life overall.

If ONE is the loneliest number and you’re less than ONE, are you ZERO or NEGATIVE ONE? Because ZERO is nonexistent and NEGATIVE ONE is crippling despair.

you know what? kindness does exist bcs i exist and im a sweetheart.

I'm nowhere near where I want to be

But I'm also no longer where I used to be

I'm no longer a mess,

lost in my own mind,

hurting and tripping over the shattered pieces of my heart

-

I'm not yet where I want to be,

But I came a long way from where I used to be

time runs out eventually

none spared from the clutches of cronos

evidence woven throughout skin and bone

embedded in my aching soul

a testament to my meaningless existence

as the golden hand passes by

time runs out eventually ⏳

I just cried because I just made a batch of brownies and didn’t even think about the calories in them, I was just thinking how proud of myself I was because I didn’t burn or undercook them

Therapist anon here, I want you to do an impression of @copper-9spurgatory showing all the reasons you dislike her.

-does a gruff sounding non-accented J impression- I kill anything that moves, I have big scary teeth and claws and I like to terrorize everyone, especially Nate because he's a soft boy. Everyone is a copy, especially me, I love no one but myself! Everyone looks the same to me because of my poor vision, they all look like FOOD! If I hear you singing, I will hunt you down and drink half your oil and mess you up to give you PTSD AND ANXIETY. YOU'LL NEVER SLEEP AGAIN! MUHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

I'M THE SCARIEST LESBIAN ON THIS PLANET! ROAAAAAAAAR!

-stops impression- Maybe... She was just doing her job I guess, she was sent to kill all drones here... and I'm a drone, and I made her job harder... no wonder she lashed out... But... we could've talked it out... but... I attacked her... Oh... wow... yeah... I kind of deserved her giving a big slash to my wig and obliterating my shoulder. I feel... bad... I want to apologize, but I am scared of her. I think the healthiest thing I can do is avoid her but if I do see her, give her space and respect, but stay close to my J @sd-lowercase-j

"And the universe said 'I love You" because You are love."

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Thought about this quote while editing it; props to those who recogize it :]]

Just wanted to paint something before the end of the day

I was nervous to use the black pen for the outlines but it turned out quite nice

It's sad that the quality is ruined

Okay, that's all

Goodnight <3

Nett(persona) belongs to me