“Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
-Forrest Gump
Famously and with surprising depth, Forrest Gump’s quote explains that life truly is a mystery. With each new decision, thought or action, we don’t know what we’re going to experience until we sink our teeth into it. But we can equip ourselves with tools to learn how to navigate muddy waters.
We all experience times in our life of trials and tribulations. Difficulty and joy. Heartache and pleasure. And it’s during colorful emotions and confusing times that our hearts will experience the feeling of contraction.
When we’re experiencing these not-so-fun energies, our energy field contracts. And when it contracts we are in a vulnerable state which could spiral downward if we aren’t aware of how to keep it in check. Sometimes when we get into these states, they can become addictive. Playing into victimhood we attach ourselves to the feeling of pain to validate our emotions, often digging us even deeper.
Whether you’ve received bad news, had an argument, or are maybe going through a breakup, your soul undergoes a shift, which truly is an opportunity for change.
When we are in the thick of it, everything sucks. Believe me, I know. But when you’re able to move through your emotions, understand and learn from them, often the shitty situations turn out to have the best lessons – it may take some time to be aware of this and fully embody, but we can only know true joy when we know deep pain.
The tough part is, it’s up to you to take personal responsibility. How do you choose to respond, who do you choose to (not) blame and how do you go about overcoming adversity?
So how do we shift and remain open to possibilities?
1. When things don’t align with your needs know that there is something greater waiting for you. Think of it as the universe protecting you rather than working against you. We are merely human and the universe knows much more than we can conceive with our minds. Have faith, listen to your heart and also take action. And if you feel you are always swimming against the current, then maybe it’s a sign to seek out a different river.
2. When your energy field contracts, the suppression does the opposite of giving you energy – it sucks the life force almost out of you completely. Remember to keep your energy moving to help combat this. Dancing, working out, power-walking – anything to get your body moving. E-motion is simply energy in motion. Movement creates space in the field and allows for healing to occur, unfolding your truth. Holding back your truth drains so much energy, which is suppressing the flow of your divine expression. Stepping into your truth will allow you to be you. Express your hopes and dreams and live a life truly aligned.
3. Take on the principle of facing things head on. When in crises, we can avert and slow down our state of frenzy. A very good guideline to follow when in this state is: Gratitude, Labeling, Decision and Touch. In turbulent times, take a moment out to give gratitude. To label how you feel and allow feelings to be seen, not pushed down and remember, you are NOT your feelings. Make a decision in these moments – even if it’s just to go for a walk or get some air – making a decision will put you back in the seat of control. And lastly, ease yourself so you can experience touch. If you are fighting with someone a hug is a powerful way to experience positive hormonal release that will help calm the nerves.
There are many illusions as to why it’s ‘safer’ to hold back your truth. But the more you fear your truth, the more your external reality will reflect it back to you.
Expressing your truth is what gives you energy and brings alignment to your purpose. It’s what aligns you with your divine opportunities to communicate your soulful message to this planet.
There’s nothing more exhausting than experiencing resistance. So next time you find yourself here, re-read this article and practice the steps above.
When you give yourself permission to release your illusions and align to your truth you are able to co-create and tap into the infinite power of your soul’s gifts.
