Emotional Sustainability
I see emotional sustainability not as an academic concept or theory, but rather as an important practice in daily life. A practice that seeks to become aware of the links between our emotions, feelings and values in relation to personal and social sustainability. This holistic approach places equal value on the intelligence of our thinking, feeling and physical selves. I passionately believe that unless we can sustain ourselves - emotionally, mentally and physically - we have little hope in creating the change we need to sustain the planet.
To experience, name and express emotions can be extremely liberating and help to improve communication and relationships. It requires an awareness of the body, a willingness for self-exploration and the tools to be able to process past emotions and feelings, as well as manage those that impact us in the present.
Emotions. Neurologist of emotions, Antonio Damasio, defines emotions as a conscious or unconscious physiological response in the body, that is fleeting. Emotions can be seen as a source of natural intelligence within the physical body. We can take greater responsibility for our feelings when we understand how they are related to our emotions, experiences, memories and thoughts, past and present.
Feelings. Our feelings are the conscious or unconscious experience of emotional reactions. They last longer, come after emotions, and are more connected to our thoughts.
Both emotions and feelings are of course, important factors in our decision making. When we can understand them as different but not separate, we can better manage our own sense of self and wellbeing.
This, of course, is just the beginning of an emotional sustainability practice. As with any complex, dynamic and ongoing practice, it is challenging to succinctly distil and encapsulate. Below, we attempt to capture the essence of 'emotional sustainability.' However in its truest sense, it can only be felt through a journey of personal and group self-discovery.
The ability to become aware of and understand our own emotions better, consciously recognise how our emotions affect our feelings and in turn help to form the values, beliefs and motivations that help give us strength and security in ourselves. To discover our passions and our purpose in order to fulfil our unique potential and contribute it to an interrelated and interdependent global society and natural world. To become active, not passive. To embrace our creativity and engage in dialogue with others to create shared meaning and positive relationships, that will unite us with equality and give us the optimism, drive and shared innovation needed for us to bring about peace amongst humans and secure the preservation of our precious planet.
