emotions

Emotions are feelings that we have on a day to day basis regardless if we want them or not. In the movie, Inside Out, the main characters just so happen to be the main emotions that we experience in our lives. Featured in the photo to the left are the characters, (and emotions) of Joy and Sadness. When looking at the photo, one can see right off the bat that Sadness is frozen in thought and the feelings of sadness have taken over. On the other hand, Joy is waving, smiling enjoying the moment. She is standing in front and very confident in being present. Personally, I focus on Joy in the picture because she is energized and vibrant.

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"When we are centered in joy, we attain our wisdom." -Marianne Williamson

We have all experienced times of sadness in our lives. This emotion is inevitable, however understanding it, processing what caused it, and getting yourself to a place to let it go is a challenging but beautiful process. 

A benefit of Mindfulness is the ability to regulate our emotions. With a regular practice of Mindfulness, one can understand and allow an emotion to be present. By sitting with the emotion, one can be aware of it and be curious on how the emotion came about. Giving oneself the space to respond to it and take the necessary steps to figure out what is best to do in letting it go in a healthy way. By doing this, one works inwardly and doesn't create more sadness for themselves and others involved.

I find that thinking about all the things in my life that bring me joy helps guide me back to a better sense of awareness. Especially after processing pain or sadness. The feelings that arise in me when focusing on the  joy and things that I am grateful for in my life are the feelings that I prefer to feel. Thus centering me to enjoy what is in front of me at the present moment. 

"Let your joy rise to the surface."  -Unknown