Strange Bedfellows: Kudzu and Feelings - #60

Though exploring the mystery's nine-week series on feelings officially ends today, we will likely revisit this topic because it is so central to our well being.

In this series we became aware of how difficult it can be to stay with and honor our feelings.  We also learned about kudzu, a strange plant that while initially difficult to grow, smothers everything in its path once it takes root. 

Maintaining contact with your feeling side may feel as difficult as trying to get kudzu to grow. We may then fear that once connected with our feelings, they will become as difficult to control as kudzu. 

The best way to gain expertise with our feelings is to pay attention to them and share them with trusted others. Listen for other people's expression of feelings and see what you learn.

Many thanks to Dr. Wyatt for the list of suggestions we've been working with in previous posts. Here, for your enjoyment, is her last one:

Breathe. During the pain and agony of childbirth one of the most helpful tools for coping with discomfort and controlling anxiety is regular, timed breathing. Remember to do your own deep breathing exercises whenever you are engaged in interactions of conflict or deep pain. And ask others to follow you by taking some deep breaths, as well, before beginning a difficult discussion.

When I lay down on the acupuncture table for a treatment,  Beth*, my acupuncturist often says, "Remember to breathe."

When she says this, I notice that I have been scarcely breathing.  We could say the kudzu has smothered me. With this prompting, I take a deep breath. The breath expands my lungs and fills my belly. I'm free once again. 

Our body manages our automatic breathing; we can be grateful because as busy as we all are, some of us might not remember to inhale and exhale. 

Deep breathing takes a good deal of will-power. Willpower in this case is defined as the ability to do what matters most. It goes without saying that breathing fits that category.

Breathing is an aid you can use to call upon your feelings. While you are exploring the breath, see if you can feel the warmth of your breath in your belly. 

Please breathe deeply.

Next week, a special announcement.

Thanks for exploring the mystery - Nicky Mendenhall

*Beth Terrell (and Bill Terrell) practice at Iowa Acupuncture Clinic, 8230 Hickman Road, Suite B, Clive, IA 50325. You can friend them on Facebook: Iowa Acupuncture Clinic.



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