Fear, safety and your Kidneys
Last week, we explored ways to physically nourish the Kidneys. With just a month until spring officially begins, I want to share one more aspect of the Water element.
In Chinese Medicine, each of the five elements is associated with an emotion. The emotion linked to Kidney energy is fear—not just a primal fear tied to survival, but often a fear of losing control.
The Water element embodies quiet stillness, like the depths of the ocean. But for many of us, that vastness can feel unsettling—too open, with nothing to hold onto.
In clinic, I often see this as an ongoing effort to create a sense of safety—one that can feel fragile and requires constant energy to maintain.
The wisdom of the Kidneys invites us to gently lean into fear, with the right support, and to engage in activities that bring us back into the body.
Noticing Fear in the Body
Fear can manifest in obvious or subtle ways. You might notice:
A racing heart or shallow breathing
Dizziness or feeling disconnected from your body
Restlessness or difficulty sleeping
Deep fatigue or lack of focus
As you tune into these sensations, observe if your mind labels them as a problem. Instead of resisting or distracting yourself, try this:
Take a few deep breaths and create space around the sensation.
Let the feeling be there—observe the sensations with curiosity, rather than judgment.
Notice any urge to avoid or suppress it. Can you allow that too?
Regulating the Nervous System
Fear isn’t always a sign of real danger; often, it’s a habitual response that keeps us stuck. Once you’ve acknowledged it, try regulating your nervous system with:
Shaking – Physically shake your whole body, like animals do after stress.
Nature – Walk in familiar outdoor spaces to feel grounded.
Touch – Physical connection with loved ones can bring a sense of safety.
Creating a true sense of safety in your body doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gentle, ongoing practice—a continuous return to yourself, again and again.
Growth happens at the edge of comfort. By moving slowly and with support toward what feels scary, you may find it becomes the path to less stuckness and more flow.
I'd love to hear from you if you have any questions or reflections.
