Only logged in members can reply and interact with the post.
Join SimilarWorlds for FREE »

I Don't Know How to Break Down My Defensive Wall

It's rare that I actually have anything serious to ask, but i'm sort of lost on this one.
I've been through a lot in life and i'm a strong person from it, but recently i've realised I find it difficult to feel compassion for others. My actions are compassionate as my values are that way, but I used to be able to feel emotions very strongly. I think i've got very strong defence mechanisms, if people feel peaks and valleys i feel mostly flat, i'm not depressed though at all.

So the question is, how do you get in touch with your emotions again?/what did you do to help that?.

Top | Newest First | Oldest First

Wtrcolour

I think the first thing good is You are aware.
Maybe try writing, poetry, art work shops. The work shops are so u are around others in the creative process, sharing.

View 2 more replies »

This message was deleted by its author.

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@Wtrcolour I suppose we all go through it, aw thanks.
I'm actually gonna post it on the writers weekly challenge here so i'll link ya to it. I just need to fill it out a good bit.
First attempt at writing a short story haha.

Wtrcolour

👍️Cool.
I joined that group.

Datura · F

It can help to ask yourself frequently during the day "how am I feeling?" and take time to quietly note bodily sensations, breathing pattern, and any feelings or emotions.
Journal writing might also help, and recapitulation at the end of the day.

View 1 more replies »

Datura · F

I've found metta meditation has helped me also. The one where you say the phrases first for yourself, then for someone you love, then someone who is an antagonist, then for the world.
The phrases I use are
May I be filled with loving kindness
May I be well
May I be peaceful and at ease
May I be happy.
Lots of info online about it.

Hoping you find the release you are hoping for.

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@Datura I've found a certain couple of classical songs help bring something out of me when combined with meditation.
It brings a certain catharsis.

Thanks, likewise.

This message was deleted by its author.

MarkPaul · 26-30, M

You have to break through the wall you have built. It's not easy and it's not fast. It starts by getting past the denial there is a wall.

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@MarkPaul Agreed, i'm aware I do but i'm not sure how to go about it.

MarkPaul · 26-30, M

@Ryannnnnn It's a mental process, mostly. You literally have to chip away at it. And, then you need to test it by letting the emotions out. That is clearly the hardest part because after repressing them for so long, you won't know exactly how to handle them; they almost become an entity of themselves... a "dark passenger" in a sense. And, you will confronting things you convinced yourself didn't matter from the past, now suddenly hitting you in real-time. After all that, and again it's not a fast or easy process, then the real challenge is next... facing the real-world without the wall and possibly finding the foundation of the wall is still there.

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@MarkPaul You're right, funny you'd refer to it as a dark passenger as that's Jung's concept of the shadow self.
I did manage to let a bit out a few months ago and it was very intense, but I could laugh again after it.

Just gotta sit down and focus on it I suppose. Good advice 👍️

hippyjoe1955 · 61-69, M

Why do you think you need to get in touch with your emotions again?

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@hippyjoe1955 I think i come off cold when it's not the case.
Also lack of emotion means a dull life. To have high walls is to protect ones self from the dangers outside of it, but too long spent within them and one forgets the wonders outside of them.

11knaves11 · 41-45, M

Desensitized through conditioning

Ryannnnnn · 31-35, M

@11knaves11 Very true

Add a comment...