Authentic and Toxic Emotions
What Are Authentic Emotions?
Authentic or natural emotions are joy, pain, fear, anger, disgust and surprise. These movements help us evaluate inner states like danger, loss, violation, gratification, etc., inform us about our needs and complete emotional cycles in the present moment.
"I am in danger. I feel fear. I need to escape or defend myself."
What are toxic emotions?
Toxic emotions are responses that cover or replace effective and congruent emotions and are unsuitable for problem-solving.
My personal boundaries are crossed, and I replace anger (becoming assertive) with shame, which is ineffective in solving the situation.
Toxic emotions, such as pleasing or sacrificing, are often learned, imitated, or encouraged during childhood and ca be indirectly used to gain recognition and attention from others.
How can we heal toxic emotions?
To tap into and restore authentic emotions, we must develop authentic listening and welcome our inner child, where it all began. This inner connection and attunement allow us to develop self-awareness and knowledge and become conscious of dysfunctional and toxic reactions.
How can I become aware of my toxic emotions?
List your worries, thoughts, recurring emotions and unresolved situations.
Then ask yourself:
What do all these dynamics have in common?
Are my responses authentic and helpful in solving the issue?
What kind of emotion or behaviours will help me instead?
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