after a long day at work, you now have to go home and make dinner but the kitchen is probably dirty so the dishes need cleaning before you can cook, the laundry needs to be washed (and folded) before bed, the cats need to be fed, and if you have kids then your list is much longer than mine.
but after work all i want to think about is kicking off my shoes, taking off my bra, putting on some comfy pants, pouring myself a glass of wine, and plopping on the couch. “i deserve it after a day like today. i just need to tune out, turn off my mind, and get of my head.” because guess what? tomorrow i get to do it all over again.
work and responsibilities can take a lot out of us, including down-time and me-time. and when we get a chance to grab at that time we’ve been craving for so long, we dull it with mindless things such as alcohol, food, sugar, shopping, and television. when we are dealing with a massive amount of stress or grief, we often seek to numb ourselves as a coping mechanism.
Numbing yourself prevents you from confronting your issues and keeps you from ever finding resolution or peace.
-madison taylor of daily om
it may seem harmless or pleasurable, but if your intention is to numb, then you are blocking your awareness of a deeper need. what you really may need is spiritual nourishment. maybe it’s your job, your significant other, your family, your finances, your health – whatever it may be, take a moment to recognize the emotions, thoughts, and feelings. sit with them and be honest with yourself.
With each numbing activity that you cut out of your life, you’ll find yourself being more aware and experiencing a greater emotionally acuity. Senses once shrouded by the fog of numbness become sharp and acute. Traumas and pain long hidden will emerge to the forefront of your consciousness and reveal themselves so that you can heal them. You’ll discover a deeper you–a self that is comfortable experiencing and working through intense emotions with courage and grace.
-madison taylor of daily om
here is a list of healthier alternatives to numbing out:
- exercising
- writing
- art
- cooking
- taking a bath
- talking with your partner or friend
- meditating
- visiting a float tank
stay present my friends.