Posted by tom_traubert on November 28, 2003, at 20:34:05
In reply to Re: Finally tapped into my rage » Dinah, posted by fallsfall on November 22, 2003, at 11:41:01
I've found the practice of writing "unsent letters" extremely helpful for accessing anger, which usually gives way to a deep deep sadness, which gives way to feeling light. Catharsis is good. The idea is to write a letter to someone that you will NEVER send. Sounds simple, but can be very difficult at first. The benefit comes from the knowledge that there will be no negative outcome--there is no chance of hurting someone you love. You can write a letter to a member of your family, anyone who's pissed you off or anyone with whom you felt a restrained relationship.
The key is to not hold back. You are allowed to write "I fucking hate you" without really meaning it. A lot of times I'll look back at what I've written and think "I don't really believe this," which is helpful also in gaining perspective as to what is belief and what is simply anger. The idea is to just exist within the emotion and LET IT OUT. Do not show it to anyone--if you have in your mind that you might share it with a friend/therapist/sibling, then your writing will necessarily be colored by what they might think. Just tear it up, it's trash. I bought a shredder, which works pretty well.
It may sound silly, but it really is powerful stuff. I started with "Dear Dad," and felt really foolish at first, but kept going with it. My arm felt like it was on fire and I just kept writing and writing. . .
Anyway, hope this helps.
tt
poster:tom_traubert
thread:282485
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20031123/msgs/284865.html