Releasing Stuck Emotions

We experience physiological responses in our bodies when we experience emotions. Stressful and difficult emotions can sometimes get stuck in our physical bodies and must be released. There are different tools to use such as movement, breath work, acupuncture and body work to release these emotions through what is called somatic healing. 

It's important to acknowledge our emotions so that they don't manifest physically as disharmony and disease.

Movement: In nature, animals face a great deal of stress while trying to survive. When a gazelle is chased by a lion and escapes, it gets stuck with pent-up fear, trauma and anxiety. It releases these emotions through what is called neurogenic tremoring. The approach involves shaking the body to release tension and trauma, helping to regulate the nervous system. Dr. Peter Levine developed somatic experiencing as a body-based therapy to process and release trauma. Start by shaking your hands, then your whole arms, and then your entire body, bouncing and moving and literally "shaking it off". 

Breath Work: Our breath is an incredible tool to move energy and to help us let things go. It helps bring our attention down into our bodies, inhaling to deepen our focus on the present moment, and exhaling all that does not serve us. Just a few moments of deep belly breathing can regulate our nervous system, taking us from an agitated state to a relaxed and calmer space. Simply close your eyes, take a deep inhale into your lungs, expand your belly, hold for just a moment, and then let the air release out of your mouth. Make sure your exhales are 2x longer than your inhales to feel the effects of this calming practice. Do this 10 times and notice the difference in how you feel. 

Acupuncture: The state of our mind and quality of our emotions may be the leading causes of disease. Negative thoughts and emotion create imbalance and disharmony within the body, which makes us more susceptible to dysfunction and illness. When your symptoms are addressed in acupuncture, your underlying emotions are also released. Acupuncture helps to move Qi, or energy, and release energy that is stagnant in the body. For some individuals with stuck emotions, acupuncture can cause an emotional release. 

Be aware of what you are feeling - it is a healthy start to your best wellness.

Feel it and then let it go.