The Magic of Linking Objects with Emotions
How to activate mental states with intent (hint, you already do it)
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Certain objects like an exquisite flower can make you think of harmony and might even encourage calmness. Perhaps you take this phenomenon for granted, but have you ever wondered why it happens?
You experience comfort or melancholy when in the presence of certain things, material or otherwise, because of the memories and emotions associated with them.
Unconsciously, you could link peace with the image of a water lily, for instance, since it’s a symbol rooted in your consciousness. Most people consider the lily represents peacefulness and calm because it’s referred to as such in literature and pictures, and the idea’s ingrained.
It’s helpful to establish associations and activate them with intent
You can tap into the potential of personal associations by exposing yourself to them on purpose (rather than hoping they appear of their own accord). After all, how often, when anxious, are you conveniently next to a peace-boosting lily pond?
How to create mental links
Recognize a handful of objects you associate with helpful emotions and internalize them.
Perhaps, for example, remembering your beloved dog as a puppy can lift you when you’ve got the blues. Or you might visualize the aforesaid water lily pond when you’re agitated to instill a sense of calm. Keep sensual cues at home for those times you want to upgrade your mood too.
You can listen to a recording of birdsong, use lavender essential oil, or focus on the flame of a candle to soothe away anxiety or frustration when you’ve linked these cues in your brain with calmness and peace.
You’ve forged many associations on autopilot but can create links intentionally too.
Lucky talismans are good examples. Talismans such as jewelry associated with luck don’t really have magical powers (you know that) but you can use them to transform your mindset if you link them with a strong positive emotion.
Focusing on recollecting a time when good fortune struck, while holding an object or even imagining it was present in the scenario, can help you create a link with the item and good luck.
When you handle the object or keep it with you, you’re likely to imagine you’re lucky, and positive emotions will flow. You can expect to see opportunities to generate more luck and seize them, and your lucky charm will work.
The same is true for any quality you wish to imbue in your mind like love, compassion, peace, calm, happiness, and energy.
Still unsure? Well, you might already use objects in the way described without realizing.
Do you have a favorite chair you snuggle in to watch TV? Or a much-loved coffee cup? People find beverages taste best when drunk from their preferred mug, and, no doubt, are more relaxed in a favorite chair.
Adding emotional links
Personalizing activities and forging rituals will help you create links with goods. If you always use the same coffee mug at the same time of day, doing so becomes a habit. When no one uses the mug but you, drinking from it’s a personal practice, and you like it more because it’s yours.
Maybe you want to experiment and link a few objects with something specific like sleep, relaxation, or vitality?
If so, use visualization to create links and use your senses to make the experience seem real. Include the object in a daily ritual you enjoy (make sure the ritual relates to the mental state you want).
Then again, maybe you can work with the associations you’ve made already. What were you wearing when you were happy/calm/relaxed, or whatever emotion you want to ignite?
Likewise, perhaps you’ve made links with scents, colors, places, or songs and can use them to create a mental state you want to experience.
Carry, keep, use, or visualize your chosen item when you wish to change your emotional state and the magic will happen.
