The Basics - Feelings Basics

Written by Tony Schirtzinger, MSSW, CICSW

Page 3 of 4

HOW TO FIND EACH FEELING IN YOUR BODY

1st	Remember a time when you felt each feeling very strongly.
2nd	Recall what was going on when you felt the feeling so strongly. Remember it in enough detail so that you actually start to feel the feeling again.
3rd	Notice where, in your body, you feel each emotion. (Find your "sad spot," your "angry spot," etc.)
4th	Describe what you feel in your body. Use adjectives like tight, weak, empty, heavy, light, etc.
5th	REMEMBER what you learn by doing this. Do this exercise over a few times if needed.

You will need this information to know who you are and what you want and to make every decision you will ever make.

Enjoy Your Changes!

Everything here is designed to help you do just that!

Basics #3: Unnatural Feelings

What every eight-year-old should know and most adults have never been taught about the emotions that run our lives.

ABOUT GUILT

Since guilt is not a natural, necessary emotion, it blocks and wastes our energy.

GUILT IS A COVER-UP FOR ANGER WHICH LEAVES US FEELING SAD.

We wonder: "Why am I so sluggish and irritable?"

On the surface we feel: SAD or DEPRESSED

We've been telling ourselves things like:
"I shouldn't be angry. I should be understanding."
"That person didn't mean to hurt me."
"I'm too sensitive."
"I should just take the mistreatment."
"I don't deserve better."

Down deep we feel: ANGRY

Make A Conscious Choice: Will I admit to myself that I'm angry or will I keep feeling guilty and be depressed?

BE PROUD OF YOUR ANGER!
It's there to protect you. Let it do its job!

ABOUT SHAME

Since shame is not a natural, necessary emotion, it blocks and wastes our energy.

SHAME IS A DEEP BELIEF IN OUR OWN WORTHLESSNESS. IT COMES DIRECTLY FROM BEING SHAMED AS A CHILD.

We wonder: "Why don't I seem to care what happens to me like other people do?"

On the surface we feel: VERY SAD and "HOPELESS."

We've been telling ourselves things like:
"I'm no good. I just don't feel worthwhile."
"I wonder what's wrong with me, but most of the time I just don't care."
"I might as well have a drink (or a drug, or take a big risk)."

Down deep we feel: MOSTLY SAD, BUT FEARFUL AND ANGRY TOO.

Make A Conscious Choice:
Will I keep believing those people who shamed me or will I treat myself well and be happier?

KNOW THAT ANYONE WHO SHAMED YOU WAS WRONG!