Calmness

Theme: Emotions

A state of peace, tranquillity, contentment. 

Absence of agitation, worry, or strong emotions.

An ability to keep one's cool in the face of extreme pressure. 

All these symbolise calmness.

Needless to say, this is an admirable emotion in any person, especially in these times.

A calm mind can analyse situations clearly, weigh options rationally, and make sound decisions. 

Calmness means less stress. Less stress means better physical and mental health.

Calmness also means patience and empathy, which translate into stronger relationships. 

In workplaces, calm people tend to be more efficient and productive.

But beyond a limit, calmness can metamorphose into complacency, which is not a good attribute.

Excessive calmness can lead to procrastination and missing opportunities and goals. 

Calmness should not mean suppressing emotions that need to flow out. Bottling up emotions is unhealthy.

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

Are you generally calm or impulsive?

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)

Bewilderment

Theme: Emotions

This is an emotion that combines confusion, surprise, amusement, or sometimes even shock. We are completely taken aback by an encounter, and it can be disorienting as well.

Bewilderment can stem from a situation, a piece of information, or even someone's behaviour.

Some examples: 

You walk into your house and find everything sort of scattered all over the place.

A child watching a magic show.

You do a web search to find out how a plane takes off when it increases its speed on the runway. You get an explanation that you simply can't understand.

Some of the body language that indicates bewilderment are furrowed brows, dropped jaw, wide eyes, etc.

If you are bewildered by something, is it good or bad? That depends on what is causing the bewilderment or what you are unable to understand. 

The magician's tricks leave you with a pleasant feeling. 

If you are unable to understand the explanation of how an aeroplane takes off, that could lead you to learn more about something called Bernaulli's Principle.

If you find furniture at home scattered all over the place, it might trigger panic and despair. But then it's better to calm yourself and figure out the why of it.

Mostly bewilderment can be the starting point to discovering a new world of understanding.

WHAT ABOUT YOU? 

Can you recall something that left you completely bewildered?

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)

Amusement

Theme: Emotions

I am glad I am starting this series with a positive emotion. 

The delightful feeling of being pleasantly entertained or finding something humorously engaging, light-hearted pleasure and joy often accompanied by laughter or smiles — that's amusement. 

This can be triggered by various stimuli, from a joke to maybe a pet's playful antics.

For instance, think of a man who, after a long and taxing day at work, sees children playing in a park and enjoying, full of fun and entertainment.

This simple act of witnessing pure joy allows him to momentarily forget his stresses, highlighting the restorative power of amusement.

Another example. A grandfather at a family reunion entertains everyone with humourous anecdotes from his life's experiences. This shared experience becomes a cherished memory, reinforcing the social fabric that connects them.

Socially, amusement can enhance relationships. Shared experiences of joy and laughter can strengthen bonds between friends and family.

Of course, many experiences today are online. There are ubiquitous humourous "WhatsApp forwards", YouTube shorts, Facebook reels, and Instagram stories.

Amusement forms the core of the multibillion-dollar entertainment industry. Comedians, writers, and filmmakers often seek to evoke this emotion, crafting their work to resonate with the audience's sense of humour.

Amusement serves as an excellent stress reliever. An entertaining show provides a form of exercise for our brain, leaving us feeling refreshed and less burdened by stress.

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

When you think of amusement, what comes to your mind?

(I'm participating in #AtoZChallenge and #BlogchatterA2Z)