Embracing Emotional Wisdom: A Therapist's Journey to Healing Through the Body

-Amy Sheridan, LMSW- Growing up, I distinctly remember being labeled as “too sensitive.” My emotions were often seen as something to be managed, hidden away so as not to make others feel uncomfortable. Tears, especially, were unwelcome, and I was frequently urged to "stop crying".  For years, I internalized these messages, learning to suppress my feelings and deny my emotional outpourings. As I matured and embarked on my journey as a therapist, I began to unlearn these early lessons. I discovered the profound wisdom nestled within my body and how essential it is to honor it.

 Did you know that our tears, particularly those shed from deep emotional states, serve a crucial purpose? They release cortisol—the stress hormone—offering us a pathway to relieve tension and restore balance.

The connection between our suppressed emotions and physical health is not merely anecdotal; it is well-documented in books like that of renowned physician Dr. Gabor Maté. In his book, "When the Body Says No," Maté explores the intricate relationship between repressed emotions and disease, illustrating how unaddressed stress and trauma can manifest as physical ailments over time. His work resonates deeply with me, reinforcing the idea that ignoring our bodies' signals can lead to serious consequences.

 In my personal and professional experience, I have come to appreciate the power of somatic exercises. These practices focus on the body and its myriad signals, helping us to release built-up stress and trauma. Whether through mindful movement like walking, dancing or shaking, meditation, deep breath work, or gentle yoga, somatic exercises enable us to attune to our bodies’ needs and regulate our nervous systems effectively.

 Learning to listen to my body has been transformative. By embracing my sensitivity rather than shunning it, I've found a source of strength and healing. I encourage all of my clients to listen to their own body’s messages and allow themselves the grace to express what they feel. Emotion is not a weakness; it’s an inherent part of the human experience and a crucial key to our well-being. As we journey together through life, may we all strive to honor the wisdom of our bodies, learning that the path to wholeness often begins with the simple act of acknowledging and releasing.