How to Relieve the Stress of Judgment |
What Is Emotion Regulation?
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To protect us, our brains are always judging situations. We can't stop judging but we can stop reacting.
Start controlling your mind by learning how your body signals it is having an emotional reaction.
Creating the habit of exercising emotional choice requires diligent practice and self-compassion.
Every day I read articles and posts about the growing divisiveness in the world. It is difficult to have a conversation with anyone whose opinions differ from our own.
Not only are we becoming increasingly judgmental, but our quickness to disrespectfully react with ridicule or contempt is also damaging our relationships and our health. Judgment triggers tension. Your breathing quickens. Your heart and blood pressure rise. Your face flushes, your thoughts narrow, and you feel a jolt of self-protection. Your reaction might range from a mumbled cynical remark to a personal attack on the speaker’s intelligence.
However, biting your tongue so you don't say anything is still harmful. The stress from suppressing negative reactions can weaken the immune system, strain your cardiac and digestive systems, and affect your sleep.1
It’s also likely people will feel the energy of your negative emotions even if you have mastered keeping your face blank. Small gestures, like pursing your lips or looking at your hands, might indicate your displeasure........