How Emotions Affect the Body

How are you feeling today? What do you think that emotion is telling you? Where do you feel those sensations in your body?

Your emotions aren’t random. They are significant responses to the internal and external stimuli you experience every day. 

Emotions affect the body in numerous ways, and learning about the mind-body connection is essential for your mental health. Let’s get into what you need to know.

Understanding the Importance of Emotions

Emotions are a natural part of being human. They are part of our survival. We are not wired to feel happy all the time, and it is normal to experience a wide spectrum of emotions. 

Unfortunately, many people try to change, suppress, or avoid their emotions. Often, this happens when we believe we “shouldn’t feel” a certain way. That said, these efforts are rarely sustainable or practical. Emotions aren’t good or bad, and they aren’t right or wrong. 

In fact, learning how to honor your emotions is an integral part of your self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. Furthermore, when you can identify and respect your emotions, you can make appropriate decisions for how you want to act moving forward. 

The Connection Between Physical Pain and Emotional Pain

Research suggests a strong relationship between physical and emotional pain. Both types of pain can trigger and exacerbate the other. 

For example, heightened depression and anxiety levels are associated with numerous physical symptoms, including stomachaches, headaches, nausea, and muscle tightness. Even elevated stress can cause nerve and muscle constriction, which may exacerbate pain. 

Additionally, acute physical pain may indicate emotional problems. For instance, chronic migraines may signify restlessness or anxiety. Neck or shoulder pain could represent symptoms related to emotional distress.

Whether the pain is more emotional or physical, it’s important to learn how to manage your symptoms. Many people benefit from a combination of relaxation exercises, self-compassion, and positive thinking techniques.  

How Trauma Impacts the Body 

70% of American adults endure at least one traumatic event at some point during their lives. Unresolved trauma can disrupt all areas of one’s life. Just like emotions affect the body, trauma symptoms can be both emotional and physical. These symptoms may include:

  • Increased sense of hypervigilance and worry
  • Feelings of numbness and detachment
  • Heightened blood pressure
  • Night terrors and insomnia
  • Unexplained aches and pains
  • Racing heartbeat

For this reason, most trauma therapy focuses on understanding the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In learning how to become more attuned to your body, you can feel an increased sense of ownership over your reactions.

How Therapy Can Help You Understand How Emotions Affect the Body

If you struggle with your emotions, you're not alone. Many people experience fear or helplessness when coping with their daily thoughts or feelings. 
Therapy provides a safe place for you to understand the impact of how emotions affect the body. You will also learn healthy coping skills for managing distress when it arises. At Cornerstone Christian Health Services, we provide several services that address numerous health issues.

Schedule an appointment with us to get started!