Learn to forecast emotions and better understand their transitory nature.
Emotions are like the weather. Sometimes, life feels bright, akin to a spring breeze. Occasionally, tears resemble a summer shower. Every now and then, anger seethes under the surface in the manner of an impending winter storm. And like the weather, depending upon climate (geographical and internal), feelings are changeable, even unpredictable, reflecting the prevailing atmospheric conditions of the inner self.
There are many metaphors that might be used to explain or describe feelings. Using weather conditions, however, helps to focus attention on the nature of emotions and how, like the sky’s elements, they can affect mood from moment to moment and day to day. It can act as an internal barometer, signalling if conditions are set fair or whether rain might be on the way. By charting feelings as they arise, it’s even possible to forecast some atmospherics and triggers that cause them. Armed with this knowledge, it’s possible to apply some weather-shaman tactics (perhaps with qualified support) to manage the prevailing conditions.
Types of emotional weather
Different meteorological conditions can be used to describe and make sense of the changing nature of moods. Discover how the language of weather can bring a new perspective to understanding emotions.
SUN:
A genuine smile that’s accompanied with a warm, relaxed feeling inside is like pure sunshine on a beautiful blue-sky day.
Be present, let the light in, and welcome these peaceful, happy, sunny moments.
RAIN:
Whether a sharp shower, fine drizzle, or extended deluge, rain represents tears that fall as a result of relief, pressure, sadness, pain, trauma, or loss. Like rain, crying can be cleansing, washing away a heavy atmosphere while bringing release from pent-up feelings. Know that the rain cloud will pass, bringing clearer air and room to think with greater clarity.
CLOUD:
There are days when emotions feel cloudier than usual, causing a sense of heaviness, despondency, or lack of vitality.
Recognise that feeling under the weather is temporary. Do things you enjoy and that benefit you and others. The overcast sky will soon disperse to reveal the sun.
WIND:
From a light breeze to cyclone-strength gusts, the wind is a powerful element. From an emotional viewpoint, a light current of air helps us to sail through the day, while battling wild winds might feel exhilarating but exhausting. The wind is all about air, and it offers a reminder to embrace the moment and breathe.
STORM:
When pressure builds, a storm can arise. The emotional equivalent is anger and rage, which can result in hasty words and actions that strike like lightning if left unchecked. A storm can be healthy if pressure is released in a constructive way, such as channelling the intense energy through exercise or creative expression.
Once the vigour of an emotional storm has been transcended or it’s run out of steam, the atmosphere will feel clear, fresh, and tranquil once more.
ICE:
Feeling numb, cold, or frosty are typical reactions to situations that cause disappointment, upset, or trauma.
Icy conditions can bring everything to a standstill for a while, freezing both thought and feeling. This is a time for gentle self-nurturing, realising that the ice will thaw and warmth will return.
FOG:
Tiredness can result in a temporary mind fog, which affects both concentration and mood. This will be exacerbated and potentially become a thicker smog from a lack of exercise, stress, unresolved emotional conflicts, and a diet deficient in essential nutrients. Focus on improving your internal environment by adopting lifestyle and creative practices that promote happiness and improved health.
That could include walking, knitting, seeing friends, going to the movies – whatever works for you. In time, the fog – or smog – will dissipate.
RAINBOW:
Life can sometimes be a series of ups and downs, sunshine, and showers. At such times, look for the rainbow, and see it as a symbol of beauty and hope. Enjoy the amazing colours and bear in mind that the pot of gold reflects all the wonderful things in life right now – no matter how small or insignificant they might seem.
♥ If you’re ready to start exploring your own emotional weather chart, download our BONUS journalling activity to get you started ♥
If heavy cloud, smog, ice, and storms are prolonged or appear to be a regularly occurring theme on your emotional weather chart, it might be helpful to talk to your GP or a registered counsellor. Help is also available at lifeline.org.au.
