No matter who we are and how well we create a life of happiness and kindness, we are going to experience upsetting or negative elements. So to increase our resiliency and shielding, we are going to build our energy. — Keep in mind that this is not shutting down or off from the world.
Eliminate battles: Sometimes we are knowingly going into a hurtful/destructive situation. Maybe we feel obligated or feel bad for the other person, understanding that by interacting with them we are going to be hurt, upset, or even lower our self worth. It is time to eliminate these interactions as much as we can. There is no need to add extra toxicity into our life.
Gear up: However, most the time we know an interaction is toxic but we have to have the interaction for one reason or another. So the prep here would be to mental prepare yourself for this type of interaction. Avoid predictions that no matter what it will not go well- but rather understand that the interaction can go a variety of ways. Including the not so great ways. Knowing this eliminates surprise and violation. Another key element is finding a healthy calm person as an ally to discuss the interaction with afterward to gain insight and reduce alienation.
Protection: Imagery can be a very powerful tool. Visualize some sort of shield, protection, light, or protector – being with you at all times as you interact in these situations. You can even visualize a giant clear egg that surrounds you and disperses the negative energy away from your core and dissipating into the air. This may seem silly- but try it! It really works on setting a new mindset and helping you feel resilient.
Gross but Effective: This is disgusting- but you will never look at negative people the same again. Every time someone approaches you and is negative or attacking; I want you to visualize that these negative energy/comments are vomit. They are basically running around vomiting at peoples feet. Here is the gross part. It is YOUR choice to pick up their vomit and eat it. Yup. So stop eating other people’s vomit. Please.
Down time: And last but also commonly stated- get some time to yourself were you can recharge your batteries. Everyone is different on what they need to do and the amount of time they need to feel rejuvenated. So experiment to see what is best for you specifically.
My insights: I am more of a sponge than I would like to admit. I tend to want to take care of those around me and make sure that everyone is doing okay. Which can be a very good trait until you start to take on too much of what others are experiencing. The easiest way for me to shield is to remind myself of my role (usually to help) but that does not include feeling every burden they are feeling. I can not take away frustration or hurt- they are the only ones who can do that for themselves. The mantra “this is not my emergency” is helpful to me to remind myself that it is not my distress, but I can assist in healing. I used this on the ambulance and it was very helpful to shield.
In the world: Find someone who needs some help strengthen shields today. Maybe they are unable to keep their shields up or are simply worn down. This act does not need to be big, a few simply kind words can go a long way. The more understanding and kindness in the world, the less likely we will feel like outside forces are battering our shields and those of our loved ones.
I would love to see who is going on this journey alongside me- so use the hashtag #30daysofMagic, tag me with @jessietherapy (facebook or instagram) , or message me so I can share your experience too.
See you in the blooms Friends!
– Jessie the Therapist
Photo by: Nik Shuliahin; Unsplash
