Revulsion is a deep, intense feeling of disgust and loathing. It often arises when we encounter something morally or physically repulsive. This emotion can feel like a visceral rejection, making us want to distance ourselves from the source. In the RULER framework, revulsion aligns with high-intensity anger, characterized by negative valence and high arousal. While not explicitly mapped on the Geneva Wheel, it shares qualities with emotions like contempt and disgust, which are closely linked to moral judgments and physical aversion.

Using Inner

Using Inner, you can track patterns of revulsion by journaling when and where it arises. Pay attention to physical sensations like nausea or tightness in the chest. Explore why certain triggers evoke such strong reactions and consider healthier ways to express your feelings, such as setting boundaries or seeking support.

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Common Triggers

→Witnessing acts of cruelty or violence
→Discovering unethical behavior
→Encountering offensive smells or sights
→Learning about moral transgressions by trusted individuals
→Feeling betrayed by someone close
→Experiencing a violation of personal values

Physical Sensations

•Nausea
•Tightness in the chest
•Stomach churning
•Wrinkled nose
•Sweaty palms
•Increased heart rate

Working with This Emotion

Recognize

Revulsion often manifests as a strong feeling of disgust, accompanied by physical sensations like nausea, tightness in the chest, and a desire to move away. Facial expressions may include a wrinkled nose and narrowed eyes. Behavioral signs can include avoiding eye contact or physically distancing oneself.

Understand

Common causes of revulsion include encountering morally reprehensible behavior, witnessing cruelty, or being exposed to offensive stimuli. It often arises when our values are violated or when we feel a strong need to protect ourselves from perceived threats.

Label

To precisely label revulsion, consider the intensity and specific triggers. Distinguish it from similar emotions like disgust (which is more about physical aversion) or contempt (which involves a sense of superiority). Revulsion is characterized by a deep loathing and a strong urge to distance oneself.

Express

Healthy ways to express revulsion include setting clear boundaries, communicating your feelings assertively, and seeking support from trusted friends or professionals. Engaging in activities that align with your values can also help you process and channel this emotion constructively.

Regulate

Strategies to regulate revulsion include deep breathing exercises to calm the body, mindfulness practices to observe and accept the emotion without judgment, and cognitive reframing to challenge irrational thoughts. Grounding techniques like focusing on physical sensations or engaging in a calming activity can also be helpful.

Practical Examples