Let’s talk about something we’ve all experienced: those moments when our emotions are like a tidal wave crashing down on us. You know, when you’re in fight or flight mode, anxious and irritated, and the last thing your body wants to do is sit still and try to meditate. Trust me, I’ve been there too!

For the longest time, I thought the solution was to calm myself down whenever I felt overwhelmed. I’d take a deep breath, step back, and try to gather myself. But here’s the thing I’ve come to understand: trying to be calm in the midst of intense emotions can sometimes drive you even crazier.

Don’t push down your emotions!

I used to think that by pushing those big emotions down, I was doing myself a favor. But in reality, I was just suppressing them. And let me tell you, suppression is like trying to hold a beach ball underwater—it takes a ton of effort, and eventually, it’s going to pop back up, splashing all over the place.

So what’s the alternative? Well, instead of suppressing our emotions, we can choose to release them. Our emotions are like energy in motion, and they need an outlet.

Five somatic body-based practices:

1. Shaking: Just shake it off, literally! Intentionally trembling or shaking your body can help discharge stored energy and tension. It stimulates your nervous system’s “rest and digest” response, facilitating the release of muscular tension and promoting emotional catharsis.
2. Jumping Jacks: Engage in dynamic, rhythmic movements like jumping jacks or rebounding to release anxiety and tension from your body. These movements stimulate blood circulation, oxygenation, and lymphatic flow, helping you let go of pent-up energy and promoting a sense of relaxation.
3. Stomping: Give yourself permission to stomp your feet and release that built-up energy. Stomping allows you to externalize your emotions in a visceral way, promoting catharsis and empowerment. Plus, it’s a great way to disrupt stagnant energy patterns in the body.
4. Wall Pushes: Exert force against a solid surface like a wall to release tension and ground yourself in the present moment. This practice helps you connect with your body and redirect your focus away from anxious thoughts, promoting a sense of stability and calmness.
5. Heel Drops: Focus on grounding and centering by shifting your weight downward through your heels onto a solid surface. This rhythmic movement promotes body awareness and relaxation, helping you regulate your nervous system and come back to baseline.

Remember, it’s okay to feel your emotions fully. Instead of trying to immediately calm down, allow yourself to move, release, and then introduce calming practices. And if you’re struggling with anxiety, anger, or dysregulation, know that you’re not alone. Reach out for support—I’m here to help you navigate your emotional journey and cultivate resilience.

If this resonates with you, book a free 30-minute discovery call with me. Let’s explore how I can support you on your path to emotional well-being. You deserve to feel empowered and grounded in your own skin.

Here’s to embracing our emotions and finding peace within the chaos!

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