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Did you catch the movie, Inside Out 2? This sequel wasn't just about revisiting the headquarters of Riley’s thoughts and feelings. The movie dove deeper into the complexities of growing up and managing emotions, introducing new characters like Anxiety (we've all met that one, right?).
Recently, the University of California, Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center (GGSC) hosted a webinar titled "The Science Behind Inside Out 2.” This event featured a conversation with Doctors Lisa Damour and Dacher Keltner, who served as scientific consultants on the film. The webinar offered a unique perspective, blending scientific insights with an explanation of the creative process behind Inside Out 2, and valuable takeaways for understanding teenage (and our) emotions.
Both doctors emphasized the importance of understanding all emotions as a fundamental part of human nature. Anxiety, for example, can serve a valuable purpose- to help plan and prepare for the future. Doctors Keltner and Damour championed the concept of normalizing emotions and encouraging children to explore their feelings. Normalizing emotions means acknowledging that we experience a wide range of positive and negative feelings. It's about creating a safe space where we all feel comfortable expressing ourselves without judgment or shame. Exploring feelings is about understanding why we feel the way we do and learning healthy ways to manage those emotions.
Both doctors acknowledged the immense pressure young people face today (the complexities of puberty, social pressures, and academic expectations) and emphasized the film's narrative as a universal experience. Emotions, they explained, are inherently "abstract, vague, and best managed through open communication – out is better than in."
Here are some tips inspired by Inside Out 2:
- Gratitude Glow-Up: Before falling asleep take a moment to appreciate the good. Did you master a new skill? Connect with a friend? Witness a sunrise? Let these moments fill you with appreciation.
- Creative Spark: Feeling overwhelmed? Channel your emotions into something creative. Draw, write, sing, or dance! Engaging your creative side can be a great stress reliever and spark some joy.
- Connection Comfort: Feeling disconnected and not grounded? Reach out and connect with someone you cherish! Call a friend, text a family member, or send a heartfelt message letting them know you're thinking of them. Strong connections are powerful mood-boosters.
- Move Your Mood: Feeling sluggish? Get your body moving! Even a short walk or some light stretches can release endorphins, nature's mood-lifters.
- Mindful Moment: Feeling stressed? Take a few deep breaths and focus on your senses. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, and textures around you. Grounding yourself in the present moment can bring a sense of calm and appreciation.
- Simple Pleasure Indulgence: Feeling anxious? Do something kind for yourself! Light some candles and take a warm bath, curl up with a good book and a cup of tea, or take a nap.
- Understand Fear: The movie reminds us that we often overestimate threats and underestimate our own capacity to overcome them. The film suggests that while fear is a natural human emotion designed to protect us, it often overestimates threats. We are encouraged to question the validity of our own anxieties.
- Self-Compassion: The movie highlights the importance of self-compassion, especially when we tend to be overly critical of ourselves. It promotes embracing all aspects of ourselves, even the complex parts.
Inside Out 2 offers a valuable opportunity to explore and understand our emotional landscape. One message the panel wanted to share? Embrace yourself, with all your complexities. After all, that's what makes you, you!
There’s a dedication at the end of the credits reminding us, "We love you the way you are."
With gratitude,
Ana Isabel Sánchez
   
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