Embrace ALL Your Emotions - Good or Bad - July 2022
I tell all the gymnasts that I work with, that we need to learn to embrace ALL emotions. So often, we label emotions as either “Good” or “Bad.” Of course, we enjoy the feelings of happiness and excitement yet emotions like worry, frustration, and anger are avoided. I am with you; I don’t particularly like the physical sensations of feeling worried (butterflies in my stomach) or the tension I feel in my body when I am feeling angry. However, I have learned that to be human means we will feel emotions the “Good” and the “Bad.” We are humans – NOT Robots.
Instead of labeling emotions as “Good” or “Bad”, I try to have my gymnasts see emotions on a spectrum. We need to realize that we all have 4 basic human emotions: happy, mad, sad, and scared. If we look at emotions as black and white as good and bad, then 75% of what it means to be human is feeling these “Bad” or unwanted emotions.
Emotions provide us with information. If we are worried, it is usually because we care. If we are scared our brain is warning us of potential danger. If we are sad, it’s because we lost something we cared about.
How to help your gymnasts embrace all emotions?
One, model for them that all emotions are okay and that emotions will come and go. Next, validate your gymnasts’ emotions. So often, coaches and parents are quick to say “There is no need to be afraid. “or “Don’t be worried.” As caretakers, coaches, and parents it is normal to say that; we think we are helping our gymnasts feel better, but it’s confusing them. It is teaching them that the emotions they are feeling are wrong. Instead, acknowledge your gymnasts’ emotions and validate them. So instead of saying, “Don’t be worried. You are going to be great.” Say “I hear you are worried. It is normal. You have been preparing and I am confident that you will do great!”
If you or your gymnast would like more support, check out my coaching services on my website.
Follow me on Instagram: @themindfulgymnast and Facebook: Ariana Eydenberg