The world of Tzu Chi December 2020(Vol.129)

eature never used them in years. For these items, Voon Yee suggests they have a “break-off” ceremony to express reluctance and gratitude. This seemingly insignificant act is significant to free one from emotional burden, especially after having given an “explanation or closure”, and allowing one’s emotions to be resolved by acknowledging one’s feelings. While things get hoarded, emotions accumulate. Pent-up stress and emotions will lead to mental health issues. From her experience, Voon Yee remarked, “Emotional separation requires one to be aware. For instance, a depressed patient may feel stuck and powerless as he still holds grievance over something that happened long ago.” Hence, patients need to be understood and be aware of the need to deal with and digest their emotions, before they can reinvigorate. Voon Yee shared that when dealing with emotions, one must have the right frame of mind, as shared by Master Cheng Yen. When our direction is right, we will go on the right path, and the mind will be calm and steady. “I would tell those with hoarding disorder to preserve the memory in the heart and not on the object. By changing our mindset, we can then let go of our attachment to objects and free our hearts.” As a clinical psychologist, Voon Yee’s job is to help untie the knots in patients’ hearts and shift their perspectives. She said, “We all have things that we firmly believe in, and we can’t change them just because someone else says so. It’s hard for people to take the first step to change if they’re not aware.” Voon Yee is also a TIMA member. She has seen many examples of “change” in Tzu Chi, when volunteers came to realization and were able to learn to shift their perspectives. A daily routine is essential to ensure physical and mental health. “Even a short 15 or 20-minute walk in the park helps with hormone regulation. Taking in more oxygen during exercise can help us relax too.” The World Health Organization defines “health” as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Hence, dealing with emotions, releasing stress, and maintaining physical and mental balance is an essential lesson for everyone. 2020 • 12 18