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Pain Quote by Olivia Laing

“Sometimes, all you need is permission to feel. Sometimes, what causes the most pain is actually the attempt to resist feeling, or the shame that grows up like thorns around it.” quote by Olivia Laing
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““Sometimes, all you need is permission to feel. Sometimes, what causes the most pain is actually the attempt to resist feeling, or the shame that grows up like thorns around it.””

Olivia Laing

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Permission to Feel” by Olivia Laing, 2021

Allowing oneself to feel is essential; resisting emotions creates shame and deeper pain.

In simple terms: Feel to heal.

Key Takeaway

Accept your emotions.

Themes

emotion acceptance psychology self‑compassion

Mood

empathetic thoughtful

Type

psychological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • therapy sessions
  • personal reflection
  • creative work

Key Concepts

emotional intelligence mindfulness trauma healing

Questions to Reflect On

  • What emotions do you resist?
  • How can you give yourself permission to feel?
A Different Perspective

Suppressing feelings can be protective sometimes.

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