Why do emotions surface during mindfulness?
Short Answer
Because mindfulness removes avoidance behaviors that normally keep emotions at a distance. When attention becomes quiet, underlying mood and stress become more visible. Surfacing is not failure; it’s information.
Why This Matters
Mindfulness changes how emotions move through you. Instead of escalating into story and reaction, emotions become clearer data that can rise and fall. This supports regulation without suppression and improves decision quality under stress.
Where This Changes
If mindfulness reliably triggers emotional flooding, panic, or shutdown, reduce intensity and prioritize grounding. In some cases, trauma-informed guidance is a better path than solo “push through” practice.