Releasing Toxic Anger for Women with Karyne Wilner, PsyD
Dec 3, 2024
auto_awesome
Karyne Wilner, a licensed psychologist and author of 'Releasing Toxic Anger for Women,' dives into the nuances of anger in women. She discusses the distinction between toxic and healthy anger and how recognizing personal anger styles can lead to better emotional regulation. Karyne shares insights on the roots of toxic anger linked to childhood memories and highlights relaxation techniques to manage anxiety. The conversation also addresses how anger can mask deeper feelings and presents strategies for transforming toxic emotions into healing practices.
Toxic anger can lead to serious health issues in women, including autoimmune disorders, due to emotional suppression and societal expectations.
Identifying personal anger triggers is essential for managing responses effectively, allowing individuals to transform toxic anger into constructive actions.
Deep dives
Understanding Toxic vs. Healthy Anger
Toxic anger can lead to significant health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders, particularly among women. This form of anger often results in ruined relationships, a loss of trust, and low self-esteem, as individuals may feel guilt or self-hatred following outbursts. In contrast, healthy anger is a constructive response to real threats and can motivate problem-solving actions. It also serves as a creative force, inspiring artists and creators to channel their emotional experiences into their work.
Gender Differences in Anger Expression
Women often experience anger differently than men, frequently suppressing their feelings, which can lead to unintended expressions of anger through criticism or nagging. This suppression can harm their physical health as neurotransmitters associated with anger can poison the body over time. Conversely, men are more likely to express anger outwardly and are often socially accepted when doing so. This societal double standard can compel women to mask their anger, leading to negative emotional and physical repercussions.
Identifying and Managing Anger Triggers
Recognizing personal anger triggers is fundamental for managing responses effectively. Common triggers often include unmet expectations, criticism, and disappointment, which can provoke strong emotional reactions. By identifying these triggers, individuals can develop strategies to respond constructively rather than reactively, minimizing the chances of explosive anger. Understanding that anger typically masks underlying feelings such as hurt or fear enables a deeper exploration of emotional responses.
Practices for Releasing and Transforming Anger
Various somatic practices can help individuals release toxic anger by transforming it into positive energy. Physical movements, such as fast-paced exercise or drumming, allow for the effective release of pent-up anger while ensuring safety and preventing harmful expressions towards others. Grounding techniques, including forward bends or connecting with nature, can also help individuals return to a state of calmness and clarity. Additionally, cultivating body awareness through exercises like body scans fosters a deeper understanding of emotional states and promotes healthier emotional responses.
Karyne Wilner, PsyD, author of Releasing Toxic Anger for Women, joins us to discuss toxic anger. Karyne is a licensed psychologist with a private practice in Newport, RI. She currently directs the Core Energetics Academy in Newtown, CT, and was formerly assistant director of the International Institute for Core Energetics, senior director of the Brazilian Institute, and associate director in Australia. Wilner has traveled widely giving lectures, workshops, and seminars, and has written numerous journal articles about somatic therapy and psychology. In addition to her training programs, she is presently teaching master’s level holistic counseling courses at Salve Regina University in Newport, RI. Her joy lies in helping people become more authentic and lead richer, fuller lives.
Visit our website at www.newharbinger.com and use coupon code 'Podcast25' to receive 25% off your entire order.