In the Friendly Mind, we learn the value and benefit to ourselves and others of focusing on our responses to challenging emotions and situations rather than trying to change the feelings themselves. Accepting these emotions feels counterintuitive at first. However, with encouragement and practiced dedication, we learn the importance of thoughts, especially those that help us accept our situations and feelings. Acceptance begins a process of learning to independently act from emotions without denial. It also helps counteract the hypnotic effect of the normal instinct to instantly do whatever makes us feel better. However, a Friendly Mind teaches how to slow down and care for ourselves by learning to guide our thoughts, rather than trying to use grandiose measures to unsuccessfully change our feelings.

Listen to the episode and find out more at: Awareness That Heals