Let's Talk About Triggers
- Apr 2, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 6, 2024
Written by: Yasminne Mendonça, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
As Alan Watts once said, "The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance." This same philosophy can be applied to overcoming triggers.
In simple terms, a trigger is anything that causes a reaction in us, whether it be an emotion, a thought, or a physical sensation. These triggers can come from external factors, such as our environment or the people around us, or they can come from internal factors, such as our own beliefs and perceptions.
When we experience a trigger, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by our emotions and fall into old patterns of thought and behaviour. However, by embracing the change that triggers bring and learning to move with them, we can overcome them and grow stronger as a result.
So, what are the effects of triggers on our mind and body? The answer is that they can have a profound impact on every aspect of our being, from our emotional state to our physical health.
Emotional Triggers
One of the most obvious effects of triggers is their impact on our emotional state. For example, if we experience a trigger that reminds us of a past trauma or negative experience, we may feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed. On the other hand, if we experience a trigger that brings us joy or happiness, we may feel elated and energised.
Physical Triggers
In addition to their impact on our emotional state, triggers can also have a significant impact on our physical health. For example, if we experience a trigger that causes stress or anxiety, our body may respond by releasing stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, chronic stress can lead to a range of health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity.
On the other hand, triggers that promote relaxation and calm can have the opposite effect, reducing our stress levels and promoting overall health and well-being. This is why practices such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation are so effective at promoting physical health and well-being.
Belief Triggers
Finally, triggers can also be rooted in our own beliefs and perceptions. For example, if we believe that we are not good enough or that we will never be successful, these beliefs can act as triggers that prevent us from achieving our full potential.
Fortunately, it is possible to reprogram our beliefs and change the way we think about ourselves and our abilities. Through techniques such as visualisation and positive affirmations, we can begin to rewire our brains and develop new, more positive beliefs that support our goals and aspirations.
Our past experiences and beliefs also play a crucial role in how we interpret and respond to triggers. Our brains are constantly forming associations between different experiences and stimuli, and these associations can become triggers for certain behaviours and responses.
Overcoming triggers
One of the first steps in overcoming triggers is to become aware of them. We must learn to recognize the triggers that cause us to feel anxious, angry, or fearful and take steps to address them before they become overwhelming.
This may involve techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. By taking a moment to pause and observe our thoughts and emotions, we can learn to respond to triggers in a more constructive way.
Another important step in overcoming triggers is to challenge our beliefs and perceptions by questioning these beliefs and reframing our perspective, we can begin to break free from old patterns of thought and behaviour.
For example, if we have a trigger related to a fear of failure, we can challenge this belief by reframing failure as an opportunity for growth and learning.
Finally, it is important to cultivate a sense of self-compassion and acceptance. We must learn to accept that triggers are a natural part of life and that it is okay to experience them. By treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, we can create a safe space for exploring our triggers and learning from them.
In conclusion, overcoming triggers requires a willingness to embrace change and a commitment to self-exploration and growth. By becoming aware of our triggers, challenging our beliefs and perceptions, and cultivating self-compassion, we can learn to move with the flow of life and join the dance of change.
Gentle Reminder
Triggers may feel overwhelming at times, but remember that they are simply signals that your mind and body are sending you. They do not define who you are, nor do they have the power to control your thoughts and actions.
Believe in yourself and trust in your ability to overcome your triggers. With practice and patience, you can learn to respond to them in a more constructive way and use them as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
Remember to be kind and patient with yourself throughout this process. It may not be easy, but it is worth it. Believe in yourself and know that you are capable of achieving great things.
So take a deep breath, summon your inner strength, and take that first step towards overcoming your triggers. You are not alone, and together we can create a world where we all feel empowered and capable of achieving our dreams.
Yasminne Mendonça, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Yasminne Mendonça has chosen to use her life experience and childhood trauma to help others. She is passionate about sharing her knowledge on the mind-body connection. She assists people in identifying their limiting beliefs and seeing life from a different perspective using her background in Biomedical Science, Psychology, Metaphysics, Emotional Intelligence, and Reality Transurfing. She also works in a Therapeutic Children's Home in the United Kingdom, assisting children who have experienced trauma and unhealthy attachment. Her mission is to support people in discovering their true selves so that they can live their best lives.
