I’m craving for oatmeal raisin cookies. Super craving.
Something crossed my mind yesterday. I was feeling upset about something, and I kept on assuring myself to think positive. I kept believing that things will get better and that the slump I was in was only temporary. So I smiled and squeezed out whatever sunshine was left of my day. But who was I kidding, right?
When you’re feeling bad, acknowledge the feeling. As soon as I did, I felt a little bit better. When I got home, I let all the rage out for about ten minutes. Growling, complaining, eyes fierce, sighs heavier than usual, analyzing the situation in an angry way. It was a really bad afternoon. After that, I felt so much better. The situation hasn’t been resolved, but at least I shed some of the negativity that was weighing me down.
When you’re feeling down, feel down. When you’re feeling sad, feel sad. Acknowledge the feeling. There’s no use looking at the positive side of things when you know deep down you’re still cynical and bitter. I say – Feel bitter (to feel better!)! Squeeze that stress ball and throw it at the wall! Scream all you want! Indulge in that feeling for ten minutes. Let all the negativity out. But do manage that release of course; no harming of self or others allowed.
After that, take deep breaths. You’ve released that negative energy from inside you. While you may still feel sad or bad, a bulk of the emotional heaviness has been shed. That already helps a lot. Then go about what you usually do after such cleansing. Some go window-shopping, some write, some eat — I play The Sims 2. It’s my escape and relaxation.
As I’ve managed my emotions already, I’m beginning to see the logic of the situation better. I still feel bad, but at least I’m not as ired as I was yesterday.
A happy song goes, “If you’re happy and you know it clap your hands!” The same goes for feeling bad. Sing it with me!
When you’re sad and you know it, cry it out. When you’re angry and you know it, let it out. When you’re bitter and you’re sad, friggin’ flarin’ fumin’ mad, when you’re angry and you know it, let it out.
And then bounce back.
And eat oatmeal raisin cookies.
Hi! I'm Toni Tiu,
and I've been blogging at
at Wifely Steps since 2003. This started as a blog to help newly weds adjust to married life. It has evolved into a home and parenting blog. I write about things close to my heart -- good eats, good reads, family, marriage, and the little things that make everyday happy.
jun
August 9, 2007 at 1:07 pm (17 years ago)My shoulders become heavy and I notice my hair become lifeless (not that I have great hair or take special care of it) and limp.
That’s the time I need my time alone and “expend” my energy. Play basketball, badminton until I drop. Or go to a football field and kick the ball all my might while synchronizing my most terrible and loudest “Arrrrrrgh!”. If I can’t work the sweat, I launch a shoot ’em up game and eardicate all the bad guys.. and whoever gets in my way.
After that I feel better. The problem may be there but it’s not as heavy on me as it was.
Accept these virtual raising cookies: @ @ 00 oo QQ. I hope you feel better now.
PS: “Fill bitter (to feel better) – That’s a good one!
jen
August 9, 2007 at 1:14 pm (17 years ago)Wow! I was just thinking about posting something regarding how I cope with sadness/frustration/anger. And here you are talking about it on your blog.
When I feel any of those negative feelings, I usually cook/bake. Most of the real delicious stuff that I made were because I needed an outlet.
rach
August 9, 2007 at 1:31 pm (17 years ago)I have the bad habit of shielding myself from disappointments and pain by keeping myself busy. But when the moment comes and I’m left with nothing to do, that’s when it hits me. I like what you said about acknowledging the feeling. That sounds better than trying to superficially cover it because the negative feelings eventually find a way to come out again. I appreciate this Toni.
Via
August 9, 2007 at 3:06 pm (17 years ago)Acupuncture helps here too!
Junnie
August 9, 2007 at 5:31 pm (17 years ago)that’s my last-song syndrome for tonight….:)
i don’t feel too stressed out despite what…i think it’s been borne out of the feeling of seeing my Paparazzi have multiple heart attacks or knowing that my mama’s lineage have high blood pressure…so i sulk for a minute, with creased forehead, and think of what next to do…oftentimes, prayers help.
oh ano, libre ka Friday, Aug 10?
Em Dy
August 9, 2007 at 8:51 pm (17 years ago)I agree with you that ranting for a while is ok and then we should move on. I ask myself if I deserve such treatment or to miss out on other things that I like because of a person or an incident is consuming my energy. Oftentimes, the answer is No. Once I’ve realized that, I don’t waste my time anymore thinking or analyzing what made me upset. If the other person is still upset, I leave him be to take his own time but don’t approach him head on.
pinayhekmi
August 10, 2007 at 12:03 am (17 years ago)Feel better toni! (HUGS)
And doesn’t a cry and a growl feel so good at times?
spanx
August 10, 2007 at 12:18 am (17 years ago)toni,
naiiba ka talaga….
ikaw lang ang maaaring magsulat ng “feel bad” story
that ends up making your readers “feel good”!!!
exactly why your blog is the one that i consider your blog
to be the online equivalent of that ultimate Feel Good movie,
LOVE ACTUALLY!!
kaya pag naba-bad trip,
basahin si toni marikit!
kayni
August 10, 2007 at 2:16 am (17 years ago)way to go! i usually punch my pillow when i’m mad or sad. after a few minutes of punching the pillow, i’d feel relieve. i learned if from college =). somedays, i just play boxing on the Wii. it works in releasing my stress.
jojo
August 10, 2007 at 9:12 am (17 years ago)ako…my ultimate “comfort food” is mcdonald’s. that’s why i shouldn’t get too depressed or stressed. that’s an average of about 700 cal in one meal!!!
lady cess
August 10, 2007 at 1:03 pm (17 years ago)youre right, sometimes trying to think of the positive won’t help when youre stuck in a rut.
i prefer going out in a mall or to a park. before i know it, wala nang negative energy
hazel
August 11, 2007 at 8:15 am (17 years ago)u know what’s funny? i actually BAKE OATMEAL COOKIES to relieve stress sometimes
And i can proudly say i make some mean oatmeal cookies. It’s very famous here at work, our Expat bosses fight over it hahaha that’s also because I only make cookies when i feel like it. It’s like a “seasonal” treat to my team and my bosses. They love the home-made feel of it
Send me your address and a dozen might find it’s way to your doorsteps 😉