In our journey of personal and spiritual growth, triggers often emerge as unexpected teachers. These intense emotional reactions, far from being mere inconveniences, are invitations to heal, expand, and evolve. By embracing our triggers with curiosity and compassion, we can transform them into powerful catalysts for holistic growth. I mean it. Trust me.
Triggers affect us on multiple levels – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Physically, we might experience a rapidly increased heart rate or muscle tension when our sensitivities are piqued – think tense neck ache. Mentally, our thoughts may become clouded as fog descends. Emotionally, we might feel anger, sadness, frustration or fear, amongst other such intense states. Spiritually, we may feel disconnected from any sense of faith or trust, indeed even abandoning any sense of a true self. As Dr. Sue Morter, author of “The Energy Codes,” (and my new teacher – favourite coaching certification study yet!) suggests, we are not separate from the energy flowing through us – we are that very energy.
We are that a very energy. Let’s just process this. We are that very energy. That trigger rush of emotion is an essential part of us.
This fresh perspective allows us to view our triggers as energetic signposts, guiding us towards areas that need attention and healing. To lean into that rush of emotion and examine it. Trusting it in all its inflammatory, head spinning, fire-breathing essence.
Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a neuroanatomist and author of “My Stroke of Insight,” guides us, in the first instance, to embrace the power (we hold) of consciously choosing to run our brain circuitry to reclaim inner peace by understanding her ’90 Second Rule’ – that the physiological response to a thought that triggers an emotional reaction only lasts about 90 seconds. Which means, after a few counts, deep breaths and a few clock ticks, the intensity melts. This understanding provides a powerful tool for self-regulation. By recognising that our initial emotional responses are temporary, we can choose to let them pass rather than perpetuating them through repetitive thinking. Thus aligning with the idea that triggers are opportunities for growth and self-awareness.
Obviously, theory is simpler than practice so easier said than done. But, next time you feel the AAAAGGGHHHHHH jolt, try any one or all of these expert-backed strategies to transform your moments of upset into growth opportunities:-
- Practice Embodied Awareness: When triggered, pause and bring attention to your body. This activates what Dr. Morter calls the “soulful self,” allowing access to deeper states of awareness and well-being.
- Use the 4-Step Practice of State-Shifting: Robert Gass and Judith Ansara recommend: 1) Name it, 2) Take space appropriately, 3) Shift your state, and 4) Respond to the situation.
- Engage in Energy Healing Techniques: Elizabeth Ashton suggests energy medicine can help clear blockages and restore harmony to your energy field, which can be especially beneficial for highly sensitive people.
- Apply Trigger Point Therapy: For physical triggers, Dr. Janet Travell’s Spray and Stretch technique or sustained pressure approaches can help release muscle tension . Her approaches work by targeting myofascial trigger points through a combination of cooling, stretching, and precise pressure application, which helps to relax muscles, increase blood flow, and interrupt pain signals, ultimately releasing muscle tension and improving function.
- Practice Mindfulness and Presence: Cultivate mindfulness to respond to triggers in a more balanced way. This reduces their power over your emotional state.
- Seek Support and Community: Don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing experiences can provide new perspectives and emotional relief.
- Explore Energy Medicine Techniques: Incorporate practices that help move and balance your energy, tapping into your body’s natural wisdom.
- Practice Boundary Setting: Learn to set healthy boundaries with others and yourself, recognising when you need to step away from triggering situations.
Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate triggers entirely, but to develop resilience and self-awareness to navigate them effectively. As we learn to work with our triggers, we not only improve our own lives but also contribute to creating a more understanding and compassionate world.
In the words of Dr. Sue Morter,
“True life mastery and manifesting your full potential is about stewarding your energy”
By viewing our triggers as energy that can indeed be stewarded and transformed, we open ourselves up to a journey of continuous growth and self-discovery. So the next time you feel triggered, take a deep breath and remember: this is not just a challenge, it’s an invitation from your soul to grow, heal, and flourish. Embrace it with open arms and watch as you transform your life, one trigger at a time.
References:
- Dr. Sue Morter – “The Energy Codes”
- Dr. Janet Travell – Trigger Point Therapy techniques
- Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor – “My Stroke of Insight”
- Elizabeth Ashton – Energy Medicine for Highly Sensitive People
- Robert Gass and Judith Ansara – The 4-step Practice of State-Shifting
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