As parents, we often put our kids' emotions before our own. But suppressing how we feel takes a toll. Letting our children see and understand our full range of emotions allows for deeper connection and healing.
As parents, we often put our kids' emotions before our own. But suppressing how we feel takes a toll. Letting our children see and understand our full range of emotions allows for deeper connection and healing.
When your child throws a tantrum, take a beat before reacting. Close your eyes and take three deep breaths. Recite the Yogena Chittasya mantra: "The mind can be trained through yoga practice." Feel yourself centering inward.
Then, respond with empathy while still setting boundaries. Say, "I know you're angry. Let's take a break together." Validate their feelings, even when correcting behavior.
Model healthy emotional expression for your children. If you’re stressed, admit it out loud. Say, "Mommy is feeling worried right now. Can you give me a hug?" If you make a mistake, apologize sincerely. Explain when you need alone time.
As one mother shared:
“I started telling my kids how I was actually feeling instead of always saying ‘I’m fine.’ They began opening up so much more, and I didn’t feel like I had to hide my humanity.”
This week, reflect on one emotion you tend to conceal from your kids. Try voicing it calmly and constructively. Know that your openness and honesty foster their emotional intelligence. And reduces your own inner burden.
The Gita reveals a profound truth - real happiness comes not from the external world, but from inner peace. When we master the mind, we conquer the greatest source of suffering - our own negative thoughts and emotions.
The Gita wisely reminds us that we have the right to perform our duties, but the results are not in our hands. This points to a key inner struggle - letting go of our attachment to particular outcomes.
