From many perspectives, we know that when we suppress or ignore our emotions, we weaken our ability to be vulnerable and emotionally open. And vulnerability is at the heart of true, authentic, and intimate connection with others.

Firestone, T., & Firestone, R. W. (2018). Daring to Love: Move Beyond Fear of Intimacy, Embrace Vulnerability, and Create Lasting Connection. New Harbinger Publications.

Brown, B. (2012). The Power of Vulnerability: Teachings of Authenticity, Connection, and Courage. Sounds True.

Maté, G. (2019). When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress. Vermilion.

Maté, G., & Maté, D. (2022). The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture. Avery.

From When the Body Says No: The Cost of Hidden Stress by Dr. Gabor Maté:

• Stress can be a way for the body to say no: The body may manifest stress as a way of saying no to what the mind is unwilling or unable to acknowledge.
• Stress can be internalized: People who are stressed may appear calm, quiet, or never angry. Childhood experiences can contribute to illness: Psychological wounds from childhood can have a long-term impact.
• Expressing emotions is important: Repressing emotion can lead to disease, but expressing emotion can promote healing.
• Life stresses can trigger inflammation: When someone has an episode of inflammation, it's important to consider the life stresses that may have triggered it.