Sharing our intimate thoughts and feelings with others can be quite scary. However our thoughts and feelings have a deep impact on our overall health and wellbeing. Therefore when we take the time to express our thoughts and feelings it can be very healing. Not only is it healing for us but our thoughts and feelings may also inspire others, who may be able to connect and relate to what we are experiencing.
This is a post I recently read on Sheryl Sanberg’s Facebook page which demonstrates her ability to share her intimate and very personal feelings regarding the loss of her husband; https://www.facebook.com/sheryl/posts/10155617891025177:0
Sherly Sanberg is the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook and the author of ‘Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.’ She is an inspiration to many women as well as men and her recent Facebook post about the loss of her husband received over 800,000 likes, was shared by over 350,000 people and had over 65,000 comments. Her very open and honest post describes her grief and her experience during Sheloshim which marks thirty days of mourning in Judaism.
This is a great example of how sharing your experiences creates connection. This is particularly helpful during times of suffering however finding outlets of expression on a day to day basis can also be extremely helpful. Healthy forms of expression can take on many forms such as writing or other creative outlets such as singing, drawing, painting or even taking part in sports. This channels the energy of your thoughts and feelings in a productive manner which has a positive impact on your overall wellbeing. It also allows the opportunity for people to connect and relate to you as they may be engaged and inspired by your creative outlet.
From a yogic perspective the ability to share opens up the heart chakra (Anahata Chakra) developing a healthy heart as well as strengthening the Throat Chakra (Vishuddhi Chakra) which is the centre of expression and communication. Once again this is a reminder that your yoga practice does not just involve working on the yoga mat but it is a way of life.
