What practice is recommended for handling overwhelming feelings?

Creating temporary distractions is a helpful practice for managing overwhelming feelings because it allows individuals to shift their focus away from distressing emotions and find some relief. This strategy can help reduce anxiety and provide a mental break, making it easier to approach challenging situations with a clearer perspective. Temporary distractions can take many forms, such as engaging in a hobby, spending time with friends, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness. The goal is to provide a brief respite that can help in processing emotions more effectively when ready.

Reducing food intake, increasing physical activity, and planning meals in advance are strategies that may be beneficial for overall health and well-being, but they do not specifically address the immediate emotional experiences associated with feeling overwhelmed. Instead of helping to cope with anxiety or distress, they may lead to additional stress or a focus on physical aspects rather than emotional support. Thus, creating temporary distractions stands out as the most targeted and effective approach for managing overwhelming feelings in the moment.