Emotional Cycle

Do You Ever Feel Stuck in Your Emotions?

You’re feeling anxious, and you feel it all over. Your body is tense and uncomfortable, your stomach feels queasy, and your mind is filled with dreadful thoughts and fear. This anxiety and fear create a sense of danger, preventing you from releasing these feelings. Now, you feel stuck.

When our emotions are stuck, it means we haven't found a way to release them. To recognize that we're okay and that things will be fine, we need to learn how to release our emotions and complete the cycle.

What Does It Mean to Release Your Emotions and How Do You Do It?

1. Recognize What Triggered Your Emotion

   • Identify the cause of your emotional reaction. Was it an unexpected situation, an argument with a partner or friend, or a significant decision?

2. Notice How the Emotion is Showing Up in Your Body

   • Pay attention to the physical sensations associated with the emotion. It might feel like a tightness in your chest or stomach, or you might feel hot and flustered.

3. Take Action

   • Engage in activities that help you process and release the emotion. This could include:

     • Taking a few deep breaths.

     • Going for a walk.

     • Talking to friends and/or family.

     • Massaging areas that feel tense.

     • Stretching.

     • Crying.

     • Engaging in pleasurable activities.

4. Notice How You Feel

   • After taking these steps, observe any changes in how you feel. You might find that what felt dangerous before doesn't feel that way anymore. You will likely feel more calm and at peace. You have completed your emotional cycle.

Now, go back to step 1 and revisit the initial trigger or event. Reflect on whether you now have a different perspective on it or new ways to handle it.

(Tip: Visualize a circle and trace that circle with each step. The visualization can provide additional support as you work through the emotional cycle.)

Completing the emotional cycle allows us to realize that we’re going to be okay. By recognizing our triggers, noticing how emotions manifest in our bodies, taking action, and observing the changes, we can manage our anxiety and feel better overall.

Conclusion

Feeling stuck in our emotions is a common experience, but it doesn't have to be a permanent state. By learning to recognize and release our emotions, we can complete the cycle and move forward with a sense of calm and assurance. Remember, it's okay to feel and process your emotions—it's a crucial step towards emotional well-being.

And if you or someone you know is looking to start therapy or a new therapist, schedule a consultation with me through this link.