44. Why Healing Requires Learning to Feel with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND

Today, we explore what it really means to feel emotions—not analyze them, suppress them, or power through them—but experience them safely in the body with Jenn Rapkin, a naturopathic physician, body worker, and author of The Feeling Muscle.This is a deep, grounded conversation about felt emotion, nervous system regulation, and why so many of us were never taught how to sit with hard feelings. We talk about emotional waves, co-regulation, body-based healing, and why midlife can be such a powerful (and overwhelming) invitation to reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.If you’ve ever been told you’re “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” or that your feelings are something to manage or minimize, this episode offers a completely different way forward.In this episode, we cover:01:09 What felt emotion actually means (and why it’s different from thinking about feelings)02:11 Dr. Jenn Rapkin’s path into naturopathic medicine and body-centered healing05:33 What it means to be a “frequent feeler”08:32 Why naming emotions in the body is so empowering14:10 Cultural messages that teach us to suppress hard feelings19:05 The many ways we avoid emotion without realizing it22:00 How body work helps unlock emotional healing27:16 Learning to ride emotional waves instead of fearing them29:41 Why co-regulation matters when feelings feel overwhelming31:12 A personal story of grief, lockdown, and emotional overflow33:43 Breathwork as a gentle bridge between mind and body38:53 Navigating anxiety and panic through felt experience46:45 What it really means to strengthen your “feeling muscle”49:51 Midlife overwhelm, resilience, and emotional capacity59:01 Why mindfulness is foundational in naturopathic medicineLinks and resources:The Feeling Muscle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FZDW1R2MConnect with Dr. Jenn Rapkin, ND:Website: https://drjennrapkin.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennrapkin/Connect with Dr. Kelly:Website: drkellylivingston.comWebsite Clinic: rootsdeepmedicine.comInstagram: instagram.com/thevitalspiritmethod/Facebook: facebook.com/rootsdeepnaturopathicmedicineYouTube: youtube.com/@DrKellyLivingstonThank you so much for joining The Vital Spirit Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast as it helps us reach more women who are ready to awaken their healing potential.Remember, healing isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step brings you closer to the vibrant health you were born to experience. Let’s walk this path together. If you’re ready to dive deeper or work with me one-on-one, visit www.drkellylivingston.com for more resources and ways to connect.Disclaimer:The information shared on The Vital Spirit Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Kelly Livingston, ND, and her guests, and is not a substitute for personalized care from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor or qualified health professional before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, lifestyle, or medical treatment. Listening to this podcast does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.#emotionalhealing #mentalhealthawareness #menopausejourney