Many people, including survivors of trauma, can have unexplained tension in their bodies. While you may pinpoint your tension and do exercises to find relief, it can be supportive to know the emotions that may cause shoulder tension and pain. I welcome you to join me in this post to explore which emotions may be causing shoulder tension and ways to find supportive release.
Understanding Shoulder Tension & Pain
Understanding shoulder tension reminds us that we’re not alone in our symptoms.
Here are a few interesting facts about shoulder pain sourced from the National Library of Medicine:
- Women have a higher incidence of shoulder pain than men
- Shoulder pain is the most frequent complaint involving the musculoskeletal system
- Shoulder pain has the highest incidence between the ages of 50 and 59, but younger people are becoming more affected.
This conceptual review explores how trauma survivors are more likely to have shoulder pain from the emotional impact and PTSD following trauma.
There are other causes that contribute to shoulder pain like your occupation, daily movement, and injuries. I welcome you to check with your medical team to rule out any physical issues (like injuries) related to your shoulders.
To explore more about how tension arises in your body after trauma, I welcome you to explore my guide to How Trauma Is Stored In Our Bodies.
What Your Shoulder Tension Means Emotionally & Spiritually
According to chakra philosophy, our shoulders are part of our anahata, or heart chakra. This chakra governs trust, compassion, and love. When we’re imbalanced, we may experience the symptoms listed below. When we find balance, we may experience acceptance, compassion, motivation, and empathy.
3 Emotions That Cause Shoulder Tension & Pain (From Chakra Philosophy):
- Burdens
- Fears
- Overwhelmed by Responsibilities
To learn more about chakra imbalances after trauma, I welcome you to explore this guide to Unblocking Your Chakras After Sexual Trauma.
The National Library of Medicine also explores how these three mental health symptoms are correlated with shoulder tension:
- Depression
- Stress
- Anxiety
Each of us is unique in our bodies, anatomies, histories, and emotions, so I welcome you to view this list as a general glimpse into common emotions that may be the cause. How you feel within your mind and body may be different, and that’s entirely okay.
Support for Your Healing Journey
I welcome you to explore as many modalities as you like to ease shoulder tension. The options below are supportive next steps if you’d like to explore more support, soften tension, or tend to your emotions.
If healing from trauma, you might explore my Survivor Support Page for a list of supportive resources that are outside the scope of yoga.
If exploring yoga, you might choose to explore these Five Yoga Poses to Release Stored Trauma in Your Shoulders.
You may also choose to support yourself during emotions that may arise during healing. I welcome you to explore my trauma-informed Emotional Healing Guide for practices and additional guidance.
