Shame is an emotion that is felt in the body. It can manifest itself physically as a feeling of tightness, heat, and discomfort. It can also be experienced emotionally as a sense of humiliation, embarrassment, and guilt. The physical and emotional sensations of shame can vary from person to person, but it is often experienced in the areas of the body associated with vulnerability: the heart, gut, and face.
Heart
The heart is the area of the body most closely associated with shame. People often describe feeling a tightness, heaviness, or burning sensation in the chest when they experience shame. This sensation may be so strong that it can be difficult to breathe. It is also common to experience a racing heart or rapid breathing.
Gut
The gut is another area of the body that can be affected by shame. People often describe feeling a sinking sensation in the stomach, which can be accompanied by nausea or a feeling of dread. The gut is closely connected to the brain and can be a visceral representation of the shame being experienced.
Face
The face is the area of the body that is most often associated with shame. People often report feeling their cheeks flush or their face become hot. It is also common to experience a tightness in the jaw or a sense of embarrassment in the face. This physical sensation can be accompanied by a desire to hide or avoid eye contact.
Shame can be a difficult emotion to experience, but it is important to recognize the physical and emotional sensations it can bring. Understanding how shame can be felt in the body can help us process and address our emotional experience in a healthy way.