How to regulate emotions

What really throws us off, in our lives? Is it “not knowing” what we need to do? Sometimes, sure, but what throws us off more often is parsing through feelings. We get overwhelmed, stressed, afraid, and we aren’t sure how to keep moving forward when those feelings are a lot (or, worse, when someone around us responds by telling us to “Just calm down” or “Just think positive” in response to what we feel). Knowing how to regulate emotions is a skill that you can use when emotional states are no longer helpful. Denial as a strategy for regulating emotions? Doesn’t work. Here’s what helps!