Actions Control Emotions

Most of our emotions precede certain reactions by our body. For example, when we are angry, we scowl at people; when sad; we tend to go into depression. Similarly, when we are happy, we laugh or smile a lot. But, the opposite of same is also true; many of our actions lead to varied emotions. Don't believe it? Do the following exercise for first hand experience- if you are in a good mood & having a good time, just drop your shoulders & put your hands on your forehead as if something bad is about to take place. Think of something that gave you a lot of pain & observe what happens. Your body will read the action & will command your mind to change the emotion. All of a sudden, you start going into depression and a mood of melancholy descends on you in no time. This further reminds you of more  such incidents of past & a vicious cycle sets in.

Thoughts play an important role in setting the tone for the day. But, the problem with thoughts is that they are difficult to control as a large number of thoughts pass through our mind daily. So, what is the alternative? Control your emotions by controlling your actions. Observe the posture of your body when you are angry. Is it a relaxed posture or a tight one? Of course, your body is in an upright posture; your heart beat is more than normal & if you are speaking, your pitch is high. Now, do the opposite- sit down, take a deep breath & try to divert your attention away from the matter that is making you angry. If possible, listen to some soothing song or play with your pet & try to smile. You will definitely feel some change in a positive direction. While you cannot change the situation that is making you angry, you can surely bring a change in your actions & thus, in your emotions.

Don’t smile only when you are happy; try to smile to make yourself happy even in a depressing environment. It can be the source of your permanent joy. This curve will certainly set a lot of things straight !