The Power of Naming Our Feelings

Written By Anna Woods

A Reflection from the “Faith and Feelings” (FAF) Community

The recent “Faith and Feelings” community conversation shed light on a simple yet profound truth: “We must name it to tame it.” Learning to identify and acknowledge our feelings—even the uncomfortable or confusing ones—can transform our lives. While taking this step might feel frightening, it’s one of the most generous acts we can do for ourselves. When we name what we feel, we gain clarity, control, and a deeper connection to our true selves.

In this blog, we will explore feelings, the significance of emotional awareness, and how to sit with your feelings—especially from a faith-based perspective. Remember, it’s okay to feel scared or overwhelmed. You’re not alone. Owning your emotions, saying them out loud, and trusting that it’s okay to feel what you feel is the first step on a healing journey rooted in self-compassion and faith.

The Importance of Emotional Awareness

Emotional awareness is the ability to recognize and understand your emotions as they happen. Without it, emotions can become overwhelming, confusing, or seem out of our control. Developing this awareness is crucial because it empowers us in several vital ways:

  • Better emotional regulation: When you recognize what you’re feeling, you can respond constructively instead of reacting impulsively.

  • Improved decision-making: Awareness helps you make choices based on clarity rather than impulsive, unchecked feelings.

  • Stronger relationships: Articulating emotions clearly fosters better communication and deeper connections with others.

  • Increased self-compassion: Understanding your emotions allows you to respond to yourself gently rather than with self-criticism.

Building emotional awareness takes practice, especially because many of us have been conditioned to ignore or minimize what we feel. A good place to start is learning the difference between primary and secondary emotions—distinguishing the initial feelings from reactions that come afterward.

Feeling Our Feelings

What does it really mean to feel? It’s about allowing yourself to experience your emotions fully, without judgment or suppression. This process is the cornerstone of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being. While it may seem simple on the surface, embracing your feelings often requires a shift in how you relate to your emotional landscape. Think of it as a vital step toward authentic living and inner peace.

Here are some practical ways to start this journey:

  • Pause and Tune In: Each day, take a moment to check in with yourself. Use deep breathing or mindful pauses to become aware of what you’re experiencing.

  • Name Your Emotions: Identify what you’re feeling—joy, anger, fear, sadness, or peace—to bring clarity and understanding.

  • Accept Without Judgment: Allow your feelings to be there without criticizing yourself or trying to push them away.

  • Express Safely: Find healthy outlets—journaling, talking with trusted friends, or creative activities—to release and explore your emotions.

  • Reflect and Learn: After intense feelings, ask yourself what triggered them and what they might be revealing about your needs or boundaries.

  • Practice Compassion: Be gentle with yourself. It takes time to navigate your emotional world, and self-compassion is key.

This perspective on feeling your feelings can lead to profound transformation, helping you live more authentically and resiliently.

Thank you for meeting me here, until next time be well!

Anna Laura!

Connect and Grow

If you find this helpful, please leave a review for “Faith and Feelings: Embracing Our Humanity” on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/8qw4hr5. Need a journal? It’s available in e-book, paperback, or hardcover: https://a.co/d/8qw4hr5.

Follow me on Social:ALWCoaching: https://www.instagram.com/alwcoaching/

Invite others to join our next “Faith and Feelings” Community Conversation by registering at: https://www.al-woods.com.

Our Coaching services offers here: https://www.al-woods.com/programs

Inspiration FAF community conversations and biblical readings from John 11, Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, and Psalm 147:3. Bible https://www.bible.com/bible/111/JHN.1.NIV

Additional Resources:

https://positivepsychology.com/emotion-regulation/

The science of “Name it to Tame it” by Dr. Dan Siegel

YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZcDLzppD4Jc?si=uMY22fYt4ee8ibgV

Can you name your emotions, to tame your emotions? Give it a try!

Until next time, be well!

Anna Woods
Next

Embracing Our Humanity