sagnika sd's Key Ideas from Ikigai
by Héctor García

In the west, we tend to believe that 'what we think' influences 'how we feel', which in turn influences 'how we act'.

In contrast, Morita therapy focuses on teaching patients to 'accept their emotions' without trying to control them, since 'their feelings will change as a result of their actions'.

It also seeks to 'create new emotions' on the basis of 'actions'. These emotions are learned through experience and repetition.

Morita therapy is not meant to eliminate symptoms. It teaches us to accept our desires, anxieties, fears and worries and let them go.

A donkey that is tied to a post by a rope will keep walking around the post in an attempt to free itself, only to become more immobilized and attached to the post. The same thing applies to people with obsessive thinking who become more trapped in their own suffering when they try to escape from their fears and discomfort.

If we have obsessive thoughts, we should not try to control them or get rid of them. If we do, they become more intense. Just welcome them.

We can't control our emotions but we can take charge of our actions every day. this is why we should have a clear sense of our purpose.

Ask yourself " what do I need to be doing right now? What action should I be taking?"