What Does It Mean to Sit With Your Feelings?
Most of us were never taught how to handle our emotions. We’re told to “stay strong,” “shake it off,” or “push through.” For many of the women I see in my practice, the idea of slowing down to actually feel can feel uncomfortable, even unsafe. But learning to sit with your feelings is one of the most important skills for healing, growth, and emotional freedom.
At its core, sitting with your feelings means:
Allowing emotions to surface without immediately trying to fix, hide, or dismiss them.
Giving yourself space to feel without judgment.
Noticing the physical sensations, thoughts, or urges that come with an emotion — and letting them move through you.
It’s less about doing and more about being present. Often, being present with our feelings can cause discomfort-we might not really want to sit with feelings or thoughts that are unpleasant. However, sitting with your feelings can deepen your self-awareness, enhance emotional regulation skills, and help create a sense of safety within yourself.
How to Begin Sitting With Your Feelings (Practical Steps)
Pause Before Reacting
Instead of pushing through or distracting yourself, take a moment. Even 2–3 deep breaths can create enough space to notice what’s happening.
Name What You Feel
Try simple language: “I feel sad.” “I feel angry.” “I feel anxious.” Naming the feeling reduces its power and helps the brain process it.
Notice Your Body
Where do you feel it? Tight chest, heavy shoulders, fluttering stomach? Emotions live in the body, not just the mind.
Let It Be Without Judgment
Feelings are not “good” or “bad.” They’re information. Allow yourself to feel them without labeling yourself weak, dramatic, or “too much.”
Give It Time
Most emotions, if you let them run their course, pass within minutes. They’re like waves — they rise, peak, and fall.
Learning to sit with your feelings is not about weakness — it’s about courage. It’s a practice of making room for your full self.
If you’re curious about building this skill in a supportive space, I’d love to walk with you.
