Somatic Yoga for Emotional Release

We are emotional beings. We are designed to feel and experience every emotion. Emotions are supposed to flow. In order for emotions to flow, emotions need to be acknowledged, felt, and expressed. Feelings are like ocean waves - rising, cresting, and receding all day long. It is said to take about 90 seconds for emotions to fully process. There can be a tendency to push away strong emotions that don’t feel good (anger, sadness, grief, shame, guilt, etc.). If it feels safe in your body, explore staying present with that emotion. Observe the emotion, breathe through it, allow yourself to simply be with the emotion. Ride the wave. And then once the emotion has been released, once it has passed, soothe yourself. Ask yourself, “What would feel soothing in my body?” This could be a self-hug. Or maybe you explore a self-care activity, such as taking a bath or eating a square of dark chocolate (my personal favorite). When we take time to soothe ourselves after releasing emotion, you are communicating to your brain that it’s safe to allow emotions to flow.

I invite you to ride the wave today. See what comes up. Allow emotions to surface.

My mantra is: “I need to feel to heal.” If you find this mantra helpful, feel free to use it in your practice and in your daily life.

I hope that this practice serves you well.