Depending on our interpretation we can have very differently feelings. Our interpretation, which is influenced by our upbringing, culture, previous life experiences, and context of life and time, lead to specific thoughts. Depending on our thoughts, we have different emotions. Understanding the role of stimuli and interpretation is important to empower ourselves with tools for resilience.

Research shows we spend substantial amount of our time in mind wandering and not being present. Mind wandering, whether to pleasant or unpleasant thoughts, has shown to lead to unhappiness. Learning to be aware and bringing back attention to the present moment is vital to train resilience.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), emotion is defined as “a complex reaction pattern, involving experiential, behavioral and physiological elements.” Emotions are how individuals deal with matters or situations they find personally significant. Emotional experiences have three components: a subjective experience, a physiological response and a behavioral or expressive response.