What Are Triggers & Why They Matter
Triggers are those sneaky little things that push our buttons and ignite an emotional response within us.
They can come in various forms – a word, a situation, or even a facial expression – and have the power to stir up intense feelings and reactions.
But here’s the deal: triggers matter because they provide valuable insights into our inner landscape. They show us what needs attention, healing, or growth.
The Trigger Effect: What Happens When We Get Triggered?
When a trigger strikes, it sets off a cascade of reactions within us, not just on an emotional level but also in our bodies. Our heart rate quickens, adrenaline courses through our veins, and our palms may become sweaty. These bodily responses are a result of the fight-or-flight response, an ancient survival mechanism hardwired into our systems.
But here’s the kicker: triggers aren’t exclusively negative. Yes, you read that right!
Even experiences of joy can act as triggers.
Let’s say you’ve been accustomed to living in a state of negativity, and suddenly, something beautiful and joyous happens. Your brain, wired to the familiar negative pattern, can perceive this newfound joy as a threat. It sounds counterintuitive, but your mind might resist this unfamiliar positive experience, attempting to snap you back to the negativity you’re more accustomed to.
This fascinating dance between triggers and our body’s response is rooted in the intricate interplay of neurotransmitters and hormones. The rush of dopamine, often associated with pleasure and reward, can become addictive. Our brains become wired to seek out and recreate the circumstances that trigger that rush of feel-good chemicals. It’s like chasing a high, even if the trigger itself isn’t serving our overall well-being.
Recognizing that triggers aren’t solely negative and understanding the physiological mechanisms at play empowers us to navigate our responses more consciously.
Navigating Triggers with Grace & Empowerment
So, you’re triggered – what now?
It’s time to put on your empowerment cape and take charge of the situation!
Instead of getting swept away by the emotional storm, let’s explore practical strategies to navigate triggers with grace:
Pause and Breathe: Take a moment to pause, catch your breath, and bring yourself back to the present moment. This simple act of mindfulness can create a space between the trigger and your response, allowing for clarity and conscious choice.
Self-Reflection: Go within and ask yourself, “What is this trigger trying to teach me?” Use journaling and meditation to gain insights and explore the underlying emotions and beliefs connected to the trigger.
Seek Support: Triggers often reveal unresolved wounds and areas in need of healing. Seek support from therapists, coaches, or support groups to supplement your journey. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you’re open to additional support, book a consult call with me by clicking HERE and we’ll come up with a plan for you to go from triggered to transformed together!
And for more tips on how to transmute your triggers, listen to Episode 4 Of Becoming: Addiction to Awakening: Triggers are Treasure Maps by clicking HERE or Watch the Video below!
Episode 4: Addiction to Awakening: A Trigger is A Treasure Map for Growth
Inside this episode, we discuss:
💎 Our addiction to disempowering thoughts
💎 How labels we assign to the world around us create either a positive or negative experience
💎 Triggers: An unresolved trauma within you
💎 How triggers are reaffirming the belief that we are a victim
💎 Recognizing your triggers, letting go of your addictions, and focusing on your becoming
Embracing Triggers as Catalysts for Change
Here’s the empowering truth: triggers are catalysts for transformation.
When we confront our triggers head-on, we step into our power and reclaim control over our lives.
Embrace triggers as opportunities for growth, as invitations to rewrite old patterns and stories that no longer serve you.
It’s time to shed the weight of the past, rise above limitations, and step into a new chapter of self-mastery.
Triggers are Treasure Maps
Alright, you fabulous beings, we’ve journeyed through the fascinating realm of triggers together.
Remember, triggers aren’t roadblocks – they’re treasure maps to your personal growth.
By understanding what triggers us, exploring our emotional landscape, and responding with conscious choice, we unlock our true potential and become who we were always meant to be.