Loneliness and Natural Feelings
- by Brea Dwyer
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Embracing Loneliness and Natural Feelings: You're Not Alone
In the journey of life, loneliness and natural feelings are like passing clouds, sometimes casting shadows upon us. But know this - you are never alone in these moments. We all experience them.
Let's talk about loneliness. Loneliness is a universal human emotion, and it's absolutely normal. It can visit us when we're physically alone, but it can also creep in when we're surrounded by people. It's a signal from our hearts that we're seeking connection, and that's okay.
Here are some ways to embrace and cope with loneliness:
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Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself. Treat yourself as you would a dear friend. Understand that it's okay to feel this way sometimes. Don’t speak down to yourself or push the emotion down it’s best to let it take it’s course, even though it can be painful.
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Reach Out: Don't hesitate to reach out to friends or family members. Sharing your feelings can strengthen your connections.
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Hobbies and Passions: Engage in activities you love. Pursuing your interests can bring joy and new connections. Or, find a new hobby! Painting, DIY nails, crafts, cooking, baking, cleaning, organizing, starting a new sport or support group are all good options.
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Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to stay in the present moment. Sometimes, loneliness is a result of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Try using gratitude in a self discovery journal daily.
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Join Communities: Explore online or local communities related to your interests or struggles. There, you can find people who understand and support you.
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Professional Help: If loneliness persists and affects your well-being, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. There are platforms like Grow Therapy and Hello Alma that take insurance to help make professional care more accessible. Or, platforms like BetterHelp where therapy can be used without insurance at more affordable rates.
Now, let's talk about natural feelings. Just like the changing seasons, our emotions ebb and flow. It's okay to feel a range of emotions, whether it's happiness, sadness, anger, or fear. These feelings are part of being human.
Here's how to navigate your natural feelings:
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Acknowledge and Accept: Don't judge your emotions. Accept them as valid responses to life's ups and downs.
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Express Yourself: Share your feelings with trusted friends or through creative outlets like writing or art. It's liberating.
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Self-Care: Take care of your physical and mental health. A well-nourished body and mind can handle emotions more effectively. Think about exercise as a self care act, and a regular meal cycle as one too. These help your body perform at its best and makes you feel a butt ton better too.
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Seek Guidance: If natural feelings become overwhelming, consider talking to a therapist or counselor. They can provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
Remember, you are a resilient soul capable of navigating the complex terrain of emotions and loneliness. It's through these experiences that we grow, learn, and ultimately find our path to happiness and well-being. Embrace Your Journey.
Let's embark on this journey together, supporting one another, and sharing our stories. Together, we can turn those passing clouds into the bright sunshine of hope and connection. Share your thoughts below!