Emotional Rest

by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

from Restful Resources with Dr. Saundra

Most of us have been conditioned to suppress difficult emotions. Whether it’s putting on a brave face in leadership, holding back tears in stressful moments, or minimizing our feelings to avoid conflict, we often ignore our emotions in the name of resilience. But research now shows that emotional suppression doesn’t just affect our mental state—it can have profound consequences on our physical health.

The Hidden Toll of Ignoring Your Emotions

Our bodies absorb the impact when we continuously push down feelings of stress, frustration, sadness, or disappointment. A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine examined the connection between emotional expression or suppression and high blood pressure—a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease (Finley et al., 2024). This research highlights the importance of addressing and expressing emotions to maintain heart health.  Read the full study here

Emotional exhaustion also affects brain function, making it harder to focus, make decisions, and regulate mood. Over time, this can contribute to anxiety, depression, and burnout. If you’ve been feeling constantly fatigued, irritable, or disconnected, it may not be physical exhaustion you’re experiencing—it could be emotional depletion.

"If you've been feeling constantly fatigued, irritable, or disconnected, it may not be physical exhaustion you're experiencing—it could be emotional depletion." - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

How to Prioritize Emotional Rest

The good news is that emotional rest is possible. By creating space to acknowledge, express, and release emotions in a healthy way, you can reduce the harmful effects of emotional suppression. Here’s how to get started:

1. Stop Dismissing Your Feelings

• Pay attention to moments when you instinctively say, “I’m fine” or “It’s not a big deal.” These small dismissals add up over time.
• Instead, try naming your emotions: “I feel frustrated,” “I feel overwhelmed,” or “I feel unappreciated.” Giving language to your feelings is the first step toward processing them.

2. Find Safe Spaces for Emotional Expression

• Talk to a trusted friend, therapist, or mentor who allows you to share honestly without judgment.
• Journal your thoughts uncensored—writing down raw emotions helps release internal pressure.
• Use creative outlets like art, music, or movement to express emotions nonverbally.

3. Set Emotional Boundaries

• Notice the relationships or environments that leave you emotionally drained. Set limits on overextending yourself to meet others’ expectations.
• Give yourself permission to take a step back from emotionally taxing situations when needed.

4. Embrace Emotional Honesty with God

• Scripture encourages us to bring our emotions to God rather than suppress them. Psalm 62:8 reminds us to “pour out your heart before Him.”
• Instead of bottling up frustration or sadness, bring it into your prayers. God can handle your unfiltered emotions.

Emotional Rest is Preventative Health

Emotional rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for both mental and physical well-being. The next time you find yourself brushing off your emotions, remember that ignoring them doesn’t make them disappear. It only redirects the stress into your body, where it will manifest in ways you don’t expect.

Take time to acknowledge your feelings, process them, and allow yourself the rest your emotions deserve. Your health depends on it.

Rest Well,
Dr. Saundra

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