Why Emotions Matter in Healing
Why Emotions Matter in Healing Shame: Insights from John Bradshaw
Emotions are not weaknesses—they are signals that help us understand our needs, boundaries, and relationships. In Healing the Shame That Binds You, John Bradshaw explains that when emotions are shamed or ignored in childhood, people often disconnect from them. Healing involves safely reconnecting with emotions so they can guide self-understanding and connection.
Why do people disconnect from their emotions?
Children depend on caregivers for safety and belonging. If expressing sadness, anger, or fear leads to rejection or criticism, the child adapts by suppressing those feelings.
As adults, this may show up as:
Feeling emotionally numb or “shut down”
Difficulty identifying or expressing feelings
Becoming easily overwhelmed by emotions
Avoiding conflict or vulnerability
Reacting strongly without understanding why
These patterns are not signs of weakness—they are learned ways of staying emotionally safe.
What happens when emotions are ignored?
Ignoring emotions does not make them disappear. Instead, they often show up in indirect ways, such as:
Anxiety or constant tension
Relationship struggles
Feeling disconnected from yourself or others
Irritability, withdrawal, or emotional exhaustion
Emotions are meant to move through us. When they are blocked, they tend to remain beneath the surface.
How does reconnecting with emotions support healing?
Healing begins when emotions are acknowledged with compassion instead of judgment. When people learn to safely feel and understand their emotions, they often experience:
Greater self-confidence
Clearer boundaries
Improved relationships
Reduced shame
A stronger sense of authenticity
Emotions become helpful guides rather than something to fear.
Why is this important for people in White Rock and Across Canada?
Many adults in White Rock and across Canada are balancing careers, parenting, and relationships while quietly carrying emotional wounds from earlier experiences. It’s common to appear “fine” on the outside while feeling disconnected or overwhelmed internally.
Taking time to understand your emotional world can help you feel more grounded, present, and connected—not only with yourself, but with the people you care about most.
If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. Many people begin therapy simply by becoming curious about their emotional experiences. If you’d like support reconnecting with your emotions and reducing shame, you’re welcome to book a consultation to see if working together feels like a good fit.