“Embracing Emotional Capacity: Nurturing a Deeper Understanding of Our Feelings”
Emotions are an integral part of our human experience, yet they often carry misconceptions, judgments, confusion, and shame. Society sometimes emphasizes the need to “fix” or suppress certain feelings. However, what if we could allow our emotions to be embraced as valuable teachers?
Let’s take a moment to explore this vital aspect of ourselves.
Emotions, also known as feelings, manifest as physical sensations in response to our thoughts. For instance, after a challenging conversation, you may notice an elevated heart rate, a headache, sweaty palms, or a tight throat—indicating stress hormones at play. Conversely, thoughts of gratitude and love might bring a smile, a warm feeling in the heart, or relaxation in the muscles. These physical sensations are human, instinctual, and hold valuable information.
As humans, we are meant to experience emotions. What we feel, we can eventually heal.
When an event occurs, our bodies undergo a 90-second chemical process, resulting in physiological responses—the feelings we experience. All emotions are valid and acceptable to feel. At times, we may not feel safe enough to fully acknowledge our emotions, and that’s okay. Engaging with a trauma-informed therapist can create a secure environment for gently exploring these emotions and associated thoughts, allowing the process to unfold naturally.
Our emotions are real and valid, but they do not define us.
Emotions are amoral; they hold no inherent moral value. Feeling anger, shame, fear, regret, sadness, or loneliness does not make us inherently “bad” people. While these emotions may be intense, they do not determine our identity.
Through curiosity, we can enhance our capacity to navigate uncomfortable emotions.
Our emotions provide valuable insights into our inner world. By honoring and creating space for them, emotions can eventually pass. Our bodies naturally process an emotion for about 90 seconds before returning to equilibrium. Paradoxically, the more we resist or judge ourselves for experiencing an emotion, the more we can become entangled in it. What if we could simply coexist with our emotions without becoming consumed? Therapy can offer helpful guidance in emotional regulation, fostering resilience, distress tolerance, and expanding emotional capacity.
If you’re curious about embarking on your own journey of emotional regulation and expanding your emotional capacity, having a guide by your side can be immensely valuable. I am honored to be of service and support you in embracing discomfort and personal growth. To schedule a session with me or another therapist at Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., please contact our office.
Reflection Topics:
– When you notice an emotion arising, try naming it and listing the accompanying physical sensations.
– How might you honor and acknowledge an emotion you are currently experiencing in your body?
Elizabeth, based at our North Austin location, specializes in working with children (4-7) facing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, and trauma. She also supports adolescents and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, sexuality, body image, trauma/PTSD, and addictive behaviors.
