In this episode of #FeelingsMatter, hosts Michelle Stinson Ross, Tina Schweiger, and Heather Hampton explore the emotion of feeling affectionate - that warm regard for another person or animal, characterized by loving and fond feelings. The conversation delves into the relationship between affection and physical touch, the biochemical aspects of affectionate feelings, and how past trauma can complicate our ability to express and receive affection. The hosts share vulnerable personal experiences about navigating affection with consent and emotional intelligence. Episode
Highlights:

• Michelle describes the visual representation of affection as looking "a little stoned," connecting this to the dopamine and "love chemicals" that create a natural high when we experience affectionate feelings toward others
• Heather shares how physical touch is central to her experience of affection, noting that while you can feel affectionate toward someone from a distance, expressing that affection is difficult without being physically present
• Tina vulnerably discusses her anxiety around physical touch due to childhood emotional neglect and past abuse, explaining how this creates a challenging conflict between craving human connection and experiencing physical discomfort when touched
• The hosts explore the distinction between feeling affection and expressing it, with Michelle emphasizing the importance of consent when offering physical comfort, always asking "Would you like a hug?" before touching others
• Tina shares a powerful story about comforting a delivery worker who was grieving, illustrating how emotional intelligence allows us to step outside our comfort zones to meet others' needs, and reflects on how she's grown from losing a friendship years ago due to not understanding how to show affection during difficult times

Podcast theme music by Dubush Miaw from Pixabay

This episode of the #FeelingsMatter Podcast was recorded and produced at MSR Studios in Saint Paul, MN. No reproduction, excerpting, or other use without written permission.

This episode is sponsored by 
FeelWise - bridging the gap between reflection and resilience, offering practical tools to help people overcome obstacles, embrace change, and grow stronger emotionally. https://www.feel-wise.com/

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