What Triggers Emotions Within You?

by Laurie Richardone

Have you ever wondered why a simple comment from someone can set off a cascade of emotions?

Or, why do certain situations make us feel agitated? These reactions are often described as being triggered.

But what does that mean? And why does this happen? And what can we do about it?

I would like to explore a topic that resonates with many of us. Why do we get triggered by outside experiences? We will break down what is behind emotional triggers that cause our brain to respond so strongly.

Let’s uncover the reasons behind our triggers and learn practical strategies for dealing with them.

Many of us know the words, “I was triggered by what someone said”. Do we ever ask why we get triggered? One of my triggers is when people talk a lot and aren’t good listeners.

When I think back to when I was a child and teenager in a generation where kids were seen but not heard, it triggers an emotion in my body and mind, from experiences that occurred long ago. This is a reaction that is inside of ourselves, not outside.

Things people say or do can cause our thoughts to manifest in a certain way. Most of this is unconscious unless you can become the observer of yourself, meaning, self-observation, or self-awareness. This is the ability to step back and watch our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors from a detached objective perspective.

This practice involves recognizing and understanding your inner experiences without immediately reacting. This is not easy, however, I know from personal experience that the more I can become the observer of my behavior the more I can step back and take a breath before reacting; which will offer a more positive, peaceful experience.

Do you ever notice that your energy changes when people say or do certain things? Give some thought to the times you feel triggered, there is usually a pattern.

If we can’t sit consciously, and stay centered between action and reaction, we will react to all outer experiences.

We will let those triggers happen, which can be opportunities to check inside ourselves, and notice that there might be a pattern to how we feel and when we react. This practice of staying conscious is a daily practice. Our Thoughts Matter.

Becoming aware of our patterns is a way to navigate these intense reactions and lead to a more peaceful life. A friend asked me recently what I wanted in life. It was clear, I want peace.

For the most part, triggers are from past traumas to deeply ingrained beliefs. These traumas are usually decades old, and we carry them into our present experiences.

By taking an honest inquiry, we can change how and when we respond to the outer world, thus creating a more joyful experience.

What makes it different when you’re offering a critique to one person and they are grateful, versus another getting defensive? Our Mind Matters!

I would like to offer strategies that I find helpful:

• Do a quick body scan, and become attuned to physical sensations that accompany emotional triggers, such as tightness in your chest, or tension in your shoulders.

• Do regular self-check-ins. Set aside time throughout your day to pause and check in with your emotional state. Ask yourself how you are feeling and why.

• Identify emotional shifts, and give attention to sudden changes in your mood. Notice if you go from calm to agitated, happy to sad, or any other abrupt shift.

If you desire peace no matter what life brings, I encourage you to try these practices and see what happens.

There is never a reason to lose our center, particularly if we want a peaceful life. Until we can master ourselves, and our minds, we will let outside experiences determine how we feel. The next time you get triggered, ask yourself why? See what comes up.

When the world can happen around us without getting triggered, that is freedom.

Wishing you a joyful & peaceful life

If you are a curious person or cook join me on my Podcast ~ A Taste for All Seasons

Listen to the latest episode ~ Why We Get Triggered

All episodes are on LaurieRichardone.com ~ or wherever you listen to your podcasts.

Laurie Richardone is an inspirational seasonal chef and Certified Wellness Coach

To work with Laurie, visit LaurieRichardone.com/contact