Introduction to Sensation Words
A jumping off point to explore some of the options for language we might use to describe what we are feeling in our bodies.
In practice, this might sound something like “I feel warmth in my chest and a cool airy sensation across my arms that stops at my shoulders”.
Emotion-Sensation Wheel
The brilliant emotion-sensation wheel from Lindsay Braman, which can be used as a tool to help us link our emotions to our sensations. We can get curious about how certain emotions show up in our body using this tool as a jumping off point.
In practice, we might ask questions starting from the emotion and then traveling to the outer ring to see what sensations might fit. For example: “If I feel happy, is it more proud or peaceful? Do I feel energetic in my body, or do I feel calm softness?”
You can check out this and more of her resources here: https://lindsaybraman.com/emotion-sensation-feeling-wheel/
Polyvagal Theory
“The Polyvagal Theory is a concept that explains how our physiological states and the vagus nerve are interrelated. This nerve has evolved as we evolved as mammals and is connected to our capacity for caring for our offspring and for affiliation with family and community. In essence, this theory emphasizes the significance of social connection and how it is deeply ingrained in our biology.
As humans, we have three primary nervous system states: social engagement, fight/flight, or freeze/collapse/shutdown. These three states are elicited by our central nervous system’s assessment of threat. They are biological and nervous system responses to neuroception, a term that Porges coined to define how we detect and respond to threats in the environment. Neuroception is not a cognitive perception and occurs below cognitive awareness.”
These words and excellent resource comes from Ruby Jo Walker (read more at https://www.swtraumatraining.com/polyvagal-theory )
Queer Support Lines in the USA
THRIVE Lifeline: (text: +1-313-662-8209)
This trans-led and operated text-based crisis support resource is available 24/7 to anyone 18+. This 501(c)(3) grassroots organization explicitly focuses on supporting individuals belonging to marginalized communities (person of color, LGBTQ2S+, person living with disabilities, neurodivergent, and/or other marginalized identities))
Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860
Trans Lifeline is a trans-led organization that connects trans people to the community, support, and resources they need to survive and thrive.
BlackLine: (call or text: 1(800)604-5841, or download their app)
This hotline is available 24/7, via call and mobile app, and provides peer-support, crisis-support, and an avenue to report vigilante and police misconduct. BlackLine is operated by and primarily for members of the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
The Desi LGBTQ+ Helpline (call: 1 (908)367-3374)
For South Asians is a free and confidential resource that provides peer-support to individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ and South Asian. The helpline can be reached between 8-10 pm Eastern on Thursdays and Sundays. Additional information and resources, including local support groups, can be found on their website.
INARA Warmline: (717)864-6272
This free and confidential warmline is operated by members of the Muslim Alliance for Sexual and Gender Diversity with the goal of supporting, empowering, and connecting LGBTQ+ Muslims. The warmline is available from 5-11 pm Central on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Trevor Project: (866) 488-7386
The Trevor Project is the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) young people ages 13-24.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-8255 (online chat available)
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Crisis Text Line: Text START to 741-741
Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text from anywhere in the USA to text with a trained Crisis Counselor.
The LGBT National Hotline: (888) 843-4564
The LGBT National Youth Talkline (through age 25): (800) 246-7743
Both provide telephone, online private one-to-one chat and email peer-support, as well as factual information and local resources for cities and towns across the United States.
Support for Palestinians
Together we are strong. No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.
Connecting Humanity (aka eSIMS for Gaza) - NGO that distributes eSIMs to connect Palestinians to the internet
Operation Olive Branch - Mutual Aid Links to Individual Families’ Go Fund Me Accounts
Mercy Corp - Established nonprofit that has established programs in Palestine since the 1980s
*I will continue to add resources
(To donate as your ticket into queer community group, please forward your receipt to bella@rainbowwillows.org)