Seven emotional well-being practices, ardently endorsed by those with high emotional intelligence
=====================================================================
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding peace and balance can often feel elusive. However, emotionally intelligent individuals have found a solution in the form of daily rituals that help them stay grounded and centered.
One such ritual is the morning emotion scan, a two-minute practice that involves scanning the body for feelings and asking oneself three questions. This simple exercise helps emotionally intelligent people receive important information from their bodies, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Another effective ritual is the 4-7-8 breathing technique, which serves as an emergency reset button for the nervous system. This preemptive ritual is particularly useful when emotionally intelligent individuals feel overwhelmed, providing a moment of calm and clarity.
The emotion scan ritual and the 4-7-8 breathing technique are not the only daily practices shared by emotionally intelligent people. The evening emotional download is another essential ritual, where individuals spend five minutes writing down three things they felt during the day and why. This practice helps emotionally intelligent people notice patterns in their emotions and become fluent in their emotional language.
When it comes to navigating intense negative emotions, emotionally intelligent individuals take a "processing walk." This involves walking with no distractions for 10-15 minutes and asking oneself "What do I need right now?" halfway through. This simple act of self-reflection can help individuals find the support they need to cope with difficult emotions.
Emotionally intelligent people also have scripts for protecting their energy, which they practice until they feel natural. These scripts can be as simple as go-to phrases for setting boundaries, and they are an essential tool for maintaining emotional well-being.
The beauty of these rituals is that they remove decision fatigue and help emotionally intelligent individuals navigate whatever comes their way. They are not revolutionary, but they are effective when done consistently.
Reading Frida Berrigan's book, "Laughing in the Face of Chaos: A Politically Incorrect Shamanic Guide for Modern Life," reinforces the importance of the morning emotion scan ritual. Similarly, Rudá Iandê's book emphasizes the benefits of the evening emotional download.
Every Sunday, emotionally intelligent individuals perform an "energy audit" by writing down three lists: things that gave them energy, things that drained their energy, and one adjustment they can make next week. This practice helps them maintain balance and avoid energy-draining activities.
The goal of practicing these rituals is not to become a different person overnight, but to build a foundation of practices that help emotionally intelligent individuals navigate whatever comes their way. With consistency and dedication, these rituals can transform one's life, leading to a more peaceful, centered, and emotionally intelligent existence.
