Emotions and the Body

Emotions show up in the body.

I created these visuals below diving into several core emotions and their bodily expressions, inspired by my work as a holistic psychotherapist. I have a commitment to move beyond the intellectual and bring bodily sensations and emotional expressions consciously into the therapeutic space.

Our bodies are miraculous and a bodily sensation can be like a rope down into an abyss.

Naming bodily sensation can pull us up into an awareness of our emotions (energy and movement toward action), especially those feeling states that have been disowned or kept out of our experience (most often wisely suppressed at some point for our own safety). Explore the various core emotions below and some of the physical sensations that are often markers of them. Consider starting to pay more attention to your body and it may just lead to you to greater emotional awareness. 

Source: Attachment in Psychotherapy by David Wallin

Jennifer DiGennaro MA, LLPC, is a psychotherapist and couples counselor in private practice in Grand Rapids, MI. She is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Body Trust® Provider, Lead Hungerwise™ Facilitator and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, as well as the founder of Nourished Energy. She specializes in treating chronic dieting, binge eating disorder, body image concerns, trauma, PTSD, mood disorders and relationship issues. She brings a deep passion for social justice to her trauma-informed, evidence-based and heart-centered clinical work. She is committed to ending the war that is waged against bodies in our culture. Learn more at: www.nourishedenergy.com/meet-jen/