By: SylviaVillaseñor-Ortiz,MSW,LCSW,NPT-C
Feelings are emotional states—reactions to specific moments in our lives. They are fundamental to our character, emotional state, and behavioral tendencies. As you may know, the nervous system is directly connected to the brain, where emotions and feelings originate. Specifically, the limbic system manages a wide range of emotional responses, processing them within milliseconds. Depending on our life circumstances, it can generate countless feelings powerful enough to shape the course of our day—for better or worse.
Think of feelings as tools that help us navigate the world around us. They protect us by alerting us to danger and keep us safe and balanced. Expressing our feelings, which at times can be challenging, deepens relationships and supports emotional growth. For this reason, it’s essential to learn how to express, process, and regulate our emotions in healthy ways.
Research has identified six basic emotions from which thousands of specific feelings are derived: happiness, sadness, anger, fear, disgust, and surprise. Each has a significant role. Fear and anger, for example, are crucial to self-preservation. Fear is often considered the “master emotion” because it can instantly override all other feelings in the face of perceived threat. Anger helps set boundaries and protect us from harm, –often signals a lesson or unmet need. In moments of anger, it can be helpful to ask: What is this emotion trying to teach me?
Sadness, particularly when expressed through tears, allows us to release pain, disappointment, and stress. Tears are not a weakness—they’re a pressure release valve and a signal that we need care and support. I believe tears are medicinal; after a good cry, many people feel lighter, more grounded, and emotionally relieved. Even difficult emotions such as guilt, shame, or emptiness have value. They often signal when our relationships are unhealthy or when we are emotionally hurting. When we suppress or ignore these feelings, we risk sinking into depression.
Building emotional awareness takes time and intentionality. It begins with paying attention to the signals our bodies send—tight shoulders, a racing heart, a heavy chest. These sensations often precede our conscious recognition of emotion. Journaling, mindfulness, and simply naming what we feel can strengthen this awareness. The more we practice identifying our feelings without judgment, the more equipped we become to respond rather than react. Over time, this mindful approach not only fosters self- compassion but also builds resilience, empowering us to handle life’s challenges with greater clarity and confidence.
If you feel lost, overwhelmed or unsure of how to cope, don’t hesitate to seek help. A mental health professional can support you in processing your feelings and reclaiming your emotional balance.
So ask yourself: WhatfeelingdidIexperiencemosttoday?Andwhatdiditteachme?
SylviaVillaseñor-Ortizisalicensedpsychotherapist,writer,consultant,and speaker with a private practice in the City of Tustin.