One of the common phrases we use in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) when processing traumatic responses is, "Just notice that." It's an attempt to validate the experience, creating space for the emotion, physical response, or revelation that arises. It's a powerful alignment with the body's hidden treasure—its ability to heal.
Living in any oppressive culture, we often suppress our own experiences to prevent the shame we are handed at our natural responses to things. We tell ourselves to shut-up over and over, essentially disabling our authentic selves.
But if instead we can "just notice" what comes up, without casting judgement—either good OR bad, we delay the condemnation and re-value something that has long been ignored. It doesn't mean you can't eventually decide if you like the response or dislike it. It doesn't mean it's right or wrong. It's learning to say that some things, "Just are."
This is saying nothing about the necessity of morality. Of course there is a time and place to decide what we can all agree on as right and wrong. Of course as a community we have to choose to condemn some choices and value others. But in the beginning, especially when noticing our natural instincts and responses to things, we need just a bit more time to actually see them, realize them, before determining their meaning or what we should do about them.
What you getting as you read this? Just notice.
Unsplash Markus Bluthner
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