In this episode, Amy and Brittney explore the powerful and misunderstood world of emotions. Brittney breaks down what emotions really are (hint: they’re just signals!), why we feel them, and how they relate to the stress response system. Together, they dive into the brain–body connection and how emotional responses can be triggered by both real and perceived threats. You’ll learn:·        Why emotions aren’t “good” or “bad”—they’re information·        How the autonomic nervous system drives emotional response·        What the fight, flight, freeze, and shutdown reactions feel like in everyday life·        How to actually calm your nervous system (hint: it starts with the exhale)·        The role of mindfulness and meditation in emotional regulation·        How trauma shapes our emotional lens (hello, shit-colored glasses) Amy also shares a personal story about how meditation unexpectedly helped release years of physical tension, proving that our emotional and physical health are more intertwined than we often realize. Plus: Get a sneak peek at the upcoming series on Parts of Self, which begins in the next episode. Takeaway:Emotions are messengers. They’re not out to get you—they’re trying to guide you. When we learn to listen without judgment, we open up space for healing and clarity. This episode was recorded on August 20, 2025 released on October 8, 2025 Chapter Markers00:00:00 Welcome/Intro00:01:34 Emotions, what are they good for?00:05:07 Do Our Brains Lie?00:08:16 Meditation/Mindfulness00:12:11 Perceived Threats00:13:04 Branches of the Stress Response00:17:20 Recognizing Trauma Responses in Others00:18:43 Emotions are Signals00:19:53 Next week00:21:27 Disclaimer/Outro Episode links:Visit us at: https://www.thiswayinpodcast.comLeave us a voicemail at: https://www.podpage.com/this-way-in/voicemail/ DisclaimerThis Way In is a conversation about mental health and wellbeing, not a replacement for therapy. Listening does not create a therapist–client relationship. Please never delay, disregard, or change professional recommendations because of something you hear here. Credits:Co-Produced and Hosted by: Brittney Baxter Dameron and Amy LotsbergProduction, Artwork, and Editing: Amy Lotsberg at Collected Sounds Media, LLC.Theme song. “The Journey” by Melissa West and Mixed/Mastered by Pink Flamingo Home Studio Thank you for listening, take care of yourselves. We’ll see you next time!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-way-in/donations

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