Where Do You Feel It In Your Body?

We work daily with clients experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. And while every client is unique and treatment is highly individualized, part of our approach is always to help clients identify and understand how symptoms manifest physically. Anxiety, for example, can show up as an increase in breathing and heart rate, tightness in the chest, and even indigestion. Depression often includes fatigue, changes in appetite, and aching muscles and joints. Headaches, jumpiness, insomnia, and chronic pain can be directly linked to trauma. 

So, when we’re supporting clients in their therapeutic journey, we are often asking, “Where do you feel it in your body?” We want to build awareness around the connection between physical and emotional experiences, and guide clients in “dropping in” to their body’s sensations as clues to understanding their emotional state. As such, you might be able to notice that your heart is racing and your chest is tight when talking to your partner before you understand that you’re afraid of being rejected by them. That feeling in your body can let you know that there is something to understand. Knowing how your body feels can be a throughline to your emotions. 

Begin to notice the way your body communicates and explore any connection to your underlying feelings.