Revealing the I
Do you feel heard? Do you feel like you need more room to express yourself?
Our society’s customs and practices are about masking how we truly feel and responding with the standard, glib answer, “I’m good.” Because of this, most people’s mind and body have become rigid and ruled by parameters which are detrimental to the spirit. There are many people that are trapped by these boundaries, and their souls are crying out, pushing against the walls.
Some people were taught that any strong or passionate expression of emotions was not acceptable or permitted. From an early age, young boys learned that being vulnerable was to be weak and that only girls show softer emotions. Children, especially girls, were taught they should be seen and not heard and how they dress and how they present themselves is dictated.
Many of us have learned to hide and stuff down our emotions. So we did. We stuffed them deep down and became prisoners in our own bodies, and so a vicious cycle takes place. We feel the pain of being trapped, angry at ourselves for not pushing against those boundaries and angry with the world for not allowing us a safe place to express ourselves. Insecurity, anxiety and lack of self-worth steps in; we feel confused by the feelings and emotions that are stirring within us, constantly being bombarded by outside influences. No longer able to distinguish our inner teacher (intuition) from the echoes of old, broken belief systems that constantly reminds us of the illusion of fear that lies on the other side of the wall. Sooner or later depression shows up with discomfort and dis-ease, followed by questions about our existence. The medicine, of course, is self-expression but because of fear, judgment or punishment, the emotions get repressed once again.
When we hide who we truly are, and are fearful of expressing, we are denying our spiritual purpose. This can show up in our body as pain, stress, sadness, low immune system, poor blood circulation, insomnia, high sugar levels, depression, and even suicide.
Self-expression is not a want, it is a Need! Movement and verbal expression stimulate the whole being. By using our bodies to release the mind, we become more aware of the mind/body connection and begin to feel a sense of wholeness.
Find or create a safe space to express yourself through dance, chant, free movement, podcasting, whatever moves you.
Through self-expression, one can reduce stress and inflammation and feel happier and more relaxed. It builds the immune system, lowers blood pressure and sugar levels, provides mental clarity, focus, empowerment, and a sense of self-worth, appreciation, humility and gratitude.
When we give ourselves permission to break free from mental imprisonment, we experience the true meaning of Living. In this space, our mind, body and spirit are in balance and harmony.
Much love,
Shakti Ananda