We have all experienced situations that pushed a button inside of us that we reacted in ways that we didn't expect.
Sometimes these behaviors become a source of shame in our lives because we feel defeated by them.
Urge surfing is a technique for managing one’s own unwanted behaviors. Rather than giving in to an urge, a person learns to ride it out, like a surfer riding a wave. After a short time, the urge will pass on its own.
This technique can also be used to stop or reduce drug and alcohol use, and emotional reactions such as “blowing up” when angry, gambling, and other unwanted behaviors.
How to Practice Urge Surfing
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Acknowledge you are having an urge.
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Notice your thoughts and feelings without trying to change or suppress them.
3. Remind yourself...
-It is okay to have urges. They are natural reactions to addictions and habits.
-It is normal to feel some discomfort during an urge.
-An urge is a feeling, not a “must.” I can have this feeling and choose not to act.
-Some discomfort is okay. I don’t have to change it.
-An urge is temporary. Like any other feeling, it will pass on its own.
A lot of skills take practice for us to learn. If you are struggling to change your behaviors try surfing the wave and please join me on www.instagram.com/forerunnercounseling on Wednesday at 12:00noon and we can discuss more on this wave surfing.
Sincerely,
Damalie Namale
Lead Counselor
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