The Art of Being With (vs. Processing): Part I
collage by Amanda Verdery Young, CanvaPro
☽ It's been a good run, but I propose we disengage from the idea of "processing" our emotions... especially when it comes to the enormity of all that's happened over the last several years (and many before that).
☽ The words we use matter.
☽ To process something, in modern terms, is essentially to change it from its natural state with cut-throat efficiency, creating final "products" that make consumption cheap and convenient. Translate "processing" to our experiences and emotions = Take your raw, wild, unrefined, live-edged experiences and make something useful and profitable out of them-- and invincible to spoiling-- and do it as quickly as possible!
☽ When it comes to food, we know ultra-processing destroys most nutrient density in exchange for a dizzying array of additives meant to keep you coming back for more. In the realms of personal transformation and healing, there too lay many (often unconscious) additives meant to keep you coming back for more.
☽ Processing is a means to an end. Healing is a journey in its own right. Over-processing is a colonization of nutrition. Transformation is a gentle tending to what is inherently nutrient-dense in our lives. Processing manipulates. Healing stewards what is already happening on a cellular level.
☽ Processing pounds, bleaches, emulsifies, dyes and "enhances" -- then attempts to add back in what was destroyed through processing. (!!) Transformation coaxes, draws out, simmers, lets be, compliments, lets cool completely, then naturally preserves what is already deeply valuable, flavorful, unique and nourishing within.
☽ Beloved, if it serves you to hear that it's healthy and feminist and radical and wise to let yourself be with what is happening, moment-to-moment, then let yourself hear it. 🌬See the comments for ideas on how to "be with" rather than process, and share with us any you have too.🍂🍎🍂
DO YOU LONG FOR SUPPORT IN ANSWERING THE CALL YOU HEAR DEEP IN YOUR HEART?
I offer transformative space, as Soul Guide & Nature-based Healer, for those longing to remember who they truly are, realize the greatest expression of their gifts, and manifest a life of resounding meaning. Through my unique, divinely feminine and earth-based method,Wild Becoming, I help guide others deep into the potential of their lives.