The importance of naming and understanding emotions during a breakup

Putting a name on each feeling experienced during a breakup can help regulate emotions. Language acts as a container, preventing overwhelming emotions. The affect labeling technique, where individuals name their feelings, can reduce emotional intensity. This practice allows individuals to explore their complex range of emotions, such as fear, humiliation, anger, and exhilaration. Additionally, a Buddhist practice called tonglen can be helpful, where individuals breathe in their personal experience of suffering and breathe out blessings to all those who are suffering. This process helps create a larger perspective and cultivates compassion for oneself and others.