The Hidden Cost of Emotional Suppression
Have you ever wondered why women, who are often the caregivers and peacemakers, are disproportionately affected by autoimmune diseases? An astonishing 80% of autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia, are diagnosed in women. This is not just a random coincidence; it's deeply tied to the roles and expectations society places on women.
From a young age, many women are conditioned to prioritize the needs of others above their own. We're taught to be nurturing, to avoid conflict, and to suppress our emotions, especially anger, to keep the peace. However, this chronic emotional suppression can have serious consequences on our health.
When we consistently suppress our true feelings, particularly anger, we create an internal environment of stress and imbalance. Over time, this can manifest in the body as inflammation, a key factor in autoimmune diseases. It's as if the body, unable to express its emotional pain, begins to attack itself.
A Personal Reflection: Breaking the Vicious Cycle
I too was part of this vicious circle. Since a young age, I was raised always to be mindful of giving to others, looking after others, and expecting nothing in return. Even if someone treated us poorly, we were taught to compromise—our time, our feelings, everything—to ensure others were taken care of. Growing up, I saw every woman around me living a life of giving, suppressing, and having no life beyond caregiving. Most of these women did it all happily, but over the years, they were the ones who began to suffer from significant health issues—arthritis, knee problems, declining bone health, and much more. These women, many of whom experienced deeper hormonal imbalances, often suffered in silence. There was no one to listen to their pain, and as a result, they endured continued suffering.
This experience is why I now work with both men and women, helping them through whatever stage of life they may be in. I strive to open their eyes to what is truly necessary in life—what serves them best and what they can do to break free from the estranged and entangled relationships they are stuck in within themselves. My goal is to guide them toward real freedom, to help them live a happy and content life, to understand their bodies, to listen to the subtle signals their bodies send, and to find stability and alignment before their bodies give up and erode.
How Can We Protect Ourselves?
It's time to start valuing self-care and emotional expression—not just as luxuries, but as necessities for our health. Here’s how you can begin to nurture yourself and maintain your well-being:
Set Boundaries: Start by setting clear boundaries in your personal and professional life. Boundaries are essential to protect your energy and time. Saying no is not selfish; it's a form of self-care that allows you to preserve your well-being.
Prioritise Your Needs: Regularly check in with yourself. Ask, “What do I need right now?” Whether it’s rest, solitude, or creative expression, permit yourself to prioritise these needs. Remember, when you care for yourself first, you’re better equipped to care for others.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, can help you stay in tune with your emotions. They allow you to recognise when you’re suppressing feelings and provide a healthy way to process them.
Allow Yourself to Feel Anger: Anger is a natural and important emotion. Instead of pushing it down, find constructive outlets to express it. Through conversation, physical activity, or creative outlets like writing or art, expressing anger can lead to emotional release and healing.
Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive network that respects your boundaries and understands your emotional needs. Therapy or support groups can also offer safe spaces to explore and express your feelings without fear of judgment.
Reframe Guilt: Guilt often stems from unrealistic societal expectations. Understand that taking care of your emotional and physical health is not selfish—it’s essential. Reframe guilt as a signal that you are honoring your needs and choosing to live authentically.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
At the core of these practices is the belief that true health comes from a balance of mind, body, and spirit. A holistic approach to wellness not only addresses the physical symptoms of disease but also the emotional and psychological factors that contribute to it.
By incorporating these self-care practices into your life, you can begin to break the cycle of emotional suppression and its damaging effects. As you nurture yourself and express your emotions healthily, you’ll find that you are not only more resilient but also more capable of living a vibrant, balanced life.
Remember: Your health and well-being are worth the effort. Prioritise yourself, express your emotions freely, and embrace the full spectrum of who you are. In doing so, you not only protect your physical health but also empower yourself to thrive in every aspect of life.
At Wellness Tree, I am committed to helping you build a healthier, happier lifestyle by guiding you to release past habits and embrace a more positive, growth-oriented mindset. Whether you're facing challenges in your relationships, struggling with emotional or physical health, or simply seeking a more balanced life, I can support you on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself. No matter your age or stage in life, it’s never too late to make a change. Together, we can cultivate a healthier, more vibrant you—one step at a time. Let’s begin your transformation today.
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