Idk most time of the day and almost everyday im getting hit multiple emotions at the same time it could be happy, sad or even the randomness feeling that i felt is the nostalgic feelings even if i have nvr do it before. Like sometimes the random thoughts of running in a field with the breeze being nice and watching the sunset is comforting but it’s weird y am I getting random hits of nostalgia for no possible reasons and with different feelings as well mixed in as well.
I don’t even understand my feelings atp because I get emotional numb but I will still get lots of the feelings of nostalgia. Is that okay?
Hi @hammy Your post transported back to a very hectic time in my life, so I wanted to reply. I’m not a professional, but I want you to know that your feelings are valid, especially since Singapore is so fast-paced. Since life is constantly changing, I also find myself spiralling back into periods of nostalgia and wanting to go back to how everything was before whenever I transition into a new school, new job, new phase of life.
Did you recently go through a life transition? Did something change that caused your lifestyle to change? Do you have particular friends or environments that you think of during these times, and are you able to reach out to them again to relive the happy moments together?
Sometimes nostalgia is a reminder of how far we have come, that we’re growing up and longing for the comfort of familiarity in new environments. And every moment you experienced made you who you are today, so don’t try to push them away. I think it’s important to take some time to embrace your emotions, fully process them, appreciate what you had while looking forward to the present and future. Talk to an old friend, journal, stare at your ceiling. I like to think of it as viewing a movie, if that helps.
Thank you for reaching out for support as you struggle with these confusing emotions. Please know how you are feeling is understandable and valid and surprisingly common for many of us.
When you shared you are experiencing
nostalgia without clear reasons it may be a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or uncertainty. There are also accompanying mixed feelings, including happiness, sadness, and wistfulness.
Furthermore, I believe our mind can create ideal visuals or scenarios (e.g., running in a field) as an escape or comfort just like you described.
For the emotional numbness, disassociation and struggles with emotional regulation, it would be helpful to engage help from a mental health professional who can work with you to uncover any underlying reasons. The professional can also equip you with skills to achieve better emotional regulation.
Meanwhile, I encourage you to take up these self care activities:
1. Journaling: Record your emotions, thoughts, and nostalgic experiences.
2. Mindfulness: Practice presence and self-compassion.
3. Creative expression: Engage in art, music, or writing to process emotions.
4. Self-reflection: Explore possible triggers and underlying causes. Choose values driven follow up actions and responses.
Remember that your emotions are valid and it’s perfectly normal and only human to feel overwhelmed. With more awareness, and taking small steps to address areas affecting you, positive changes can set you on the path of progress.
i experience this often too! sometimes these moments of nostalgia pop up at the most random time or situation for me, and the emotions that they bring can feel abit confusing or overwhelming. but i think its totally normal though! you could think of these nostalgic moments as a positive thing. for example, I personally view it them as a reminder of how much I’ve grown from my past experiences and mistakes. they also remind me to cherish what i have right now, so now im alot more grateful and appreciative of the people/things/situation im in now. hope this helps!
I nvr recently go through a life transition yet, but the thoughts are just like playing through my mind 24/7 a day:sweat_smile: but thank you for your view tho!! I really appreciate it!!
Hello @hammy ! Just wanted to let you know that you’re not the only one who experiences random hits of nostalgia because I DO TOO ! Sometimes really random times such as in school, showering, etc. and I understand how those emotions can be a rollercoaster or random. But, just something that you would like to know, it’s just a part of you trying to look for something familiar or reassuring even though you might not be sure about it. It’s acceptable to not completely comprehend it, and you’re not alone in that. I believe that there are times when we all struggle to make sense of the waves of emotion.
Hi @hammy thanks for sharing and your post resonates with me so well! I often get the hits of nostalgia and have that wave of emotions no matter sad or happy, sometimes it even confuses me and makes me ponder if we are in a loop (very philosophical thinking I know hahaha)
And your feelings are valid! I tend to relive some moments again and again till my emotions become a bit bland compared to others but I feel that’s okay! Maybe we can try some ways like journalling or mood tracker to track these changes, but on a daily basis I just let the feelings pass by me. I read a book before that mentioned to let our emotions just pass, it will eventually pass actually. Hence, when I experience the surge of emotions, I feel it, acknowledge it, and let it pass.
I’m curious how would you deal with those emotions and whether you share them with anyone?