Releasing Emotional Baggage using The Emotion Code

Have you ever experienced something emotionally difficult, thought you had moved on, and then noticed that the feelings seemed to resurface later? Or that you keep thinking of the same unhappy memory over and over?

Perhaps an old relationship still affects the way you connect with people.  Maybe a past experience makes you feel anxious, untrusting, or unworthy.  Or perhaps you simply have a sense that you're carrying emotional ‘baggage’ that you're ready to let go of.

This is the idea at the heart of the book The Emotion Code: How to Release Your Trapped Emotions for Abundant Health, Love and Happiness, by Dr Bradley Nelson.

It is a fascinating, easy-to-read book, which is great for anyone interested in emotional healing, energy work, spirituality and personal growth.  It also offers some interesting ideas to reflect on, which could be helpful if we give them a try. 

The Emotion Code is an energy-healing process developed by Dr Bradley Nelson.  The basic idea is that difficult emotional experiences usually leave what Dr Nelson calls ‘trapped emotions’ in the body's energy field.

According to his premise, these trapped emotions can continue to influence our wellbeing, relationships, thoughts, and behaviours until they are released.  (And if you think of how many negative emotions you’ve felt over your life – it’s a lot! – imagine the impact they are having - on you, your energy, and your life!)

Dr Nelson created this system while working with patients in his holistic chiropractic practice in Southern California.  He says the system evolved during the 1990s as he combined different healing approaches, and his own experiences in practice.  He eventually turned the process into a book, which was first published in June 2007.  (I only discovered the book in 2026 – it would have been so helpful to me if I’d discovered it earlier - however at least I’ve found it now!)

Dr Bradley Nelson is a former holistic chiropractor, author, and teacher who describes himself as a pioneer in bioenergetic medicine, and energy psychology.  His interest began in childhood, through personal experience, which is outlined on his website (link at the end of the article).

He developed several related energetic/healing systems, including The Emotion Code, The Body Code, and The Belief Code.  His organisation, Discover Healing, says that practitioners trained in his methods now work in more than 100 countries.

I love the book, and think it is definitely worth exploring if you are interested in personal development, good health, and living your Best Life.

The book has gathered a good following since its original publication, with some famous names in the self-help arena giving great reviews (partial excerpts copied from Dr Bradley Nelson's website below).

• Tony Robbins (‘I believe that the discoveries in this book can change our understanding of how we store emotional experiences and in so doing, change our lives’),

• Dr Joe Dispenza ( ‘In this wonderful book, Dr. Brad Nelson gives us a truly evolved model of how we get sick and how we can indeed heal.’ ) and

• Gregg Braden ( ‘The Emotion Code catapults us light years beyond conventional explanations of seemingly random symptoms and disease…’)

Penguin Books Australia describes it as a self-published classic that has sold more than 175,000 copies worldwide. Over 6,000 reader reviews on Goodreads has the book currently sitting at around a 3.95/5, while Dr Nelson's own website currently lists The Emotion Code with more than 5,700 Amazon ratings, and an average rating of 4.6/5.

While science is slowing catching up with energy healing (and validating ancient energy healing beliefs and practices), it is not yet at a point that those that rely on science to inform their beliefs has fully caught up and proven to scientists how it works to their satisfaction. 

Having said that, the book has reached a large audience, and has resonated with many people (including me!) interested in energy healing, and emotional wellbeing.

As is commonly thought in the energetic healing space (including yin yoga), The Emotion Code covers that we don't always fully process the emotions of what we experience.

If you think about a stressful or painful experience (eg. divorce, or losing a job), when something happens, you feel an emotion (eg. anger, betrayal, or frustration).  You deal with whatever the situation requires (eg. a correction, a rebuttal, or some other action), and life moves on. Sometimes you have time to deal with the emotion then and there, and sometimes you don't.

And sometimes, the emotional experience may continue to influence you long after the original event has passed.  The anger that was never allowed expression, or the frustration that can keep building up with little things over the years.

Some additional examples are mentioned below.  Do any of these resonate with you?

• You were rejected, so you become afraid of rejection.

• Someone betrayed you, so you struggle to trust people.

• You were criticised repeatedly, so you become afraid of making mistakes.

• A relationship ended painfully, so you protect yourself from getting close again.

• You experienced embarrassment, so you avoid putting yourself forward.

• You went through a frightening experience, so certain situations continue to trigger you.

Whether you think of this as a ‘trapped emotion’, an unresolved emotional response (or a trigger), a subconscious pattern, or simply emotional baggage, often you can still feel the emotion long after the event – or your reaction to it. (For example, do you still feel emotional about your divorce, or losing your job? That energy is often a clue that all the emotion around it has not yet been resolved.)

So if you’ve ever given an emotional response to a question, you might like to ask yourself: 

• What negative emotions are you still carrying that you no longer need?

I’m sure you’ve all heard that people suppress (or repress) their emotions (‘stuffing your emotions down’).  So where does the emotion go?  The emotion can get trapped in your body.  And if it builds up over time (eg. your boss keeps telling you you’re not good at something), until it can form a belief (which could be in your unconscious).

This book tells you how you can discover, and then remove, all those trapped emotions and unwanted beliefs (whether conscious or unconscious). 

I’m sure you know that over time, you can become sensitive to something (eg. ‘you’re not good at that’), and it can turn into a trigger.  Whenever someone pokes that trigger, you get defensive, or upset, or angry. 

The method described in the book uses muscle testing (also known as kinesiology), an emotion chart, and a magnet as part of the process.

The goal, as Dr Nelson describes, is to release the trapped emotional energy from the body.  Firstly, it’s best to isolate the emotion (with the emotion chart that is provided), and then use intention, and a magnet, to release it (via the governing meridian of the body).  (And interestingly enough, I went to a clinic that employed a similar technique decades ago - and it was the only thing that worked on my food intolerances!)

The book also discusses the idea that some emotional patterns may be inherited, ie. intergenerational trauma, which is gaining a lot of attention lately. For example, if your Mum was fearful, this could have triggered a similar emotion in you.

I personally have found it to be incredibly helpful, in releasing emotions trapped in my body.  I know of others who feel the same way.  However, the scientific community has not yet completed sufficient experiments to confirm this works to its own satisfaction.  My own personal belief is to try something (assuming it does you no harm), and make up your own mind.  It works for me (and I know of others who swear by it as well), and that’s good enough for me.  I believe that eventually science will catch up, although it could take some time.  In that time, I plan to use all energetic tools at my disposal to release what is no longer needed, and live my Best Life!!  😊

The Emotion Code is an interesting and thought-provoking book for anyone exploring emotional healing, spirituality and energy work.

The emotion code process allows you to unwind your emotional triggers, and your unwanted beliefs.  It doesn’t cost you anything.  Anyone can do it.  And over time, by releasing those trapped emotions, and triggers, you become more centred, and more peaceful – and much happier.

The book encourages you to get curious – about what trapped emotions you have, and where they are stored in your body.  It asks you to uncover your despair anchors (beliefs you created in times of despair), and release them. 

Sometimes (almost always in my case) the energy behind the trapped energy/beliefs are carried on from your parents, and grandparents.  Releasing these trapped emotions, triggers, and despair anchors also helps your family too.

While some of the explanations are quite unconventional, and readers who prefer evidence-based approaches may find some parts of the book difficult to accept, I love that it asks you what trapped emotions you are ready to release, and that it provides a clear, easy process to release them.   The process is also free, and you get to do this in the comfort of your own home, in your own time – you are in charge of your own emotional healing journey.

After practicing the emotion code process almost daily for the last few weeks, I have definitely felt the difference.  (And I know others who use it, and find that it works for them as well.)

I can actually feel the energy of the emotions (and sometimes the memories) as I am working on them, and releasing them.  (Note your body does need integration time, so you need to monitor how much and/or how often you do this process in one day.  Listen to your body, and if you need to rest, and/or take a day or two off, please do so.)

I know after releasing lots of trapped emotions and triggers, that I feel a lot more peaceful, and also a bit clearer.  I feel calmer, and am not triggered as easily as I used to be.  (And honestly, how good would it be to release as many of our triggers as possible – so we are more centred, calm, and peaceful?)

It’s also a chance to go within, and consider what you may still be holding onto (eg. memories, emotions), and let go of some experiences which are not helping you move forward.  Releasing the stuck emotions allows you feel more you – without the emotional baggage you’ve been carrying around, so you feel lighter, and more able to move forward.

Using the Emotion Code process also means that you are in the driving seat of your own journey into your emotions – and releasing what doesn’t serve you. 

The Emotion Code process allows you to go at your own pace, releasing trapped emotions one at a time, or a few at a time - whatever feels right for you. 

If you know you have triggers (and really, who doesn’t?), this is your way to gently release them.  No massive money or time investments, no travel to get someone to help you – just you, The Emotion Code book, and a magnet. 

One day at a time, one emotion at a time – you can release the trapped emotions within you, and set yourself free – of the old emotions that were trapped within you, as well as freeing up the energy that was stuck there.  By freeing yourself in this way, you will feel more centred, and have more energy - which can then be used to help you live your Best Life!  😊

This easy-to-read book takes you step by step on how to release old emotions, and gives you a simple process, which is free – and anyone can do it anywhere, anytime, to help release trapped emotions. 

I love that you are able to release the energy and emotions that can be trapped in past experiences.  This process allows you to release your own emotional triggers (for free, in your own time and space), so you are more centred, and at peace.  It also releases trapped energy, so all your energy going forward can be directed to becoming who you wish to be, and do what you wish to do.

Living your Best Life isn't about becoming someone who has never experienced pain, disappointment, or difficult emotions.  It's about exploring, and becoming someone who can move through those experiences with a sense of awareness, compassion, and courage – and learn to release the trapped emotions and triggers, so you feel centred and calm going forward. 

The less time, energy, and emotion spent in the past, the more time, energy, and emotion you have to move forward.  And releasing the trapped emotions and triggers allows more peace and happiness in.

I love exploring new ideas, processes, and concepts, to see what works for me.

The Emotion Code invites us to look at our emotions differently.  It’s a chance to be curious about your emotions, and your reactions.  It's a chance to release what no longer serves you

Consider if your reaction is commensurate with the experience – i.e. did you scream as loud as you can, and run from the room, when somebody pointed out a small spider in the corner of the room?  Or did you note it, and either keep an eye on it, or move a little further away?

We all have old emotions that have built up, leading us to over-react in certain situations.  If you notice these going forward, they’re a great starting place to release some old emotions, and free up some energy going forward.  (It also makes us less ‘triggerable’, so we are more centred and peaceful.)

We can become curious about what these old emotions (or triggers) are showing us.

• Maybe there's an old hurt that needs compassion.

• Maybe there's a belief that needs questioning.

• Maybe there's a boundary that needs strengthening.

• Maybe there's something you've been holding onto that you're finally ready to release.

Whether you embrace The Emotion Code as an energy-healing practice, or simply use some of its ideas as prompts for self-reflection, there is value in becoming more conscious of the emotional experiences we carry.

Because when we understand ourselves better, we have more choice.

And when we have more choice, we can begin creating a life that feels more aligned, peaceful, joyful and truly our own.

Sometimes living your Best Life isn't about adding more to your life.  Sometimes it's about gently letting go of what no longer needs to come with you.

1. What is The Emotion Code?

The Emotion Code is an energy-healing method created by Dr Bradley Nelson.  It is based on the idea that difficult emotional experiences can cause ‘trapped emotions’ within the body, and may continue to affect our wellbeing, thoughts, relationships, and behaviour.  The book teaches a process for identifying and releasing these emotions.

2. What are ‘trapped emotions’?

According to Dr Nelson, trapped emotions are emotions that have not been fully processed or released.  The idea is that these emotions can remain in the body. and potentially contribute to emotional, physical, or relationship challenges.

It can also be helpful to think about this concept more simply as emotional baggage – experiences, feelings, or patterns that we may continue carrying long after the original event has passed.

3. Can I do The Emotion Code myself?

Yes, you most certainly can!  One of the great things about this book is that it teaches a self-help process that readers can learn and practise themselves.  The method involves identifying an emotion using the Emotion Code chart and muscle testing, then using a magnet along your body’s meridians as part of the release process.

If you're new to energy work, you may prefer to learn from an experienced practitioner first.

4. How much does it cost to do The Emotion Code?

The self-guided process described in the book can be done for free once you have access to the book, and its instructions.

The basic process doesn't require you to pay a practitioner.  You may choose to purchase a magnet (although any magnet can be used), but these aren't the same as paying for an Emotion Code session.

If you choose to work with a certified practitioner, their sessions will have their own fees, which can vary depending on the practitioner and location.

5. Do I need a special magnet?

Dr Nelson's method uses a magnet to help with the release process, however any small magnet can work.  It’s more important to follow the instructions in the book, than to buy something new.

The book and official method provide guidance on how the magnet is used.

6. What is the Emotion Code chart?

The Emotion Code chart is a list of emotions divided into different categories.  It is used as part of the process to help identify which emotion may be involved.

Rather than trying to guess exactly what you're feeling, the chart gives you a structured way to explore possible emotions.

7. What is muscle testing?

Muscle testing (also known as kinesiology) is used in The Emotion Code process as a way of asking the subconscious mind questions and identifying possible trapped emotions.

While it usually quite accurate, if you struggle with it, or if you have a medical concern, it shouldn't be used instead of appropriate medical testing or professional healthcare.

8. Can I use The Emotion Code for old emotional wounds?

Yes, it can be quite helpful for exploring the emotions and beliefs that may be trapped in the body. However, if you feel the need for more, please consider speaking with a trusted counselor or professional.

9. Can The Emotion Code help me let go of the past?

Following the Emotion Code process as outlined in the book can be very helpful in letting go of the past.

I think it's always helpful to go within, learn what you can, and then release what no longer serves you.

However, if you need professional help and guidance, please do seek one out to assist you.

10. How often should I practise The Emotion Code?

There isn't a need to turn emotional release into another thing you ‘have to’ do.

You might explore it when you notice a strong emotional reaction, feel stuck in a particular pattern, or simply feel called to spend some time reflecting on what you're carrying. Or perhaps, like me, you're wanting to release any trapped emotions and old triggers, so you feel more centred and at peace.

As with any personal-growth practice, listen to yourself, and your body, and be guided by what feels right for you.

11. Do I have to believe in The Emotion Code for it to work?

You don't have to decide immediately whether you believe every idea in the book.

You can approach it with curiosity and an open mind. Try the reflective aspects of the process, notice how you feel, and make your own informed decision about whether the practice is useful for you.

If you know you have some unresolved grief (including grief for what never was), I offer a personalised process, where we work through it together, and let it go. Check it out here.

And if you sometimes feel your emotions are a little overwhelming, you can download our free checklist with a few journal prompts to help. You can download Managing Your Emotions - Free Checklist and Journal Prompts here.

Want more practical ideas and thought-provoking content on a regular basis?  Don’t miss out on all the hints & tips that you can implement over time!  Sign up for weekly input to help you uplift your life – one week at a time!

We have also created stand-alone pages in the 7 life segments with all blogs, freebies, and paid products grouped together, so you can easily find and review items of interest to you.  Click on the links below to find the areas of most interest to you!  

Life Purpose & Best Life - Health & Wellness - Relationships - Abundance - Personal Growth - Peace of Mind - Spirituality & Energy.

https://drbradleynelson.com/my-story/

https://discoverhealing.com/what-we-do/

https://www.penguin.com.au/books/the-emotion-code-9781785042874

https://discoverhealing.com/product/the-emotion-code-certification-program/

https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/41150537-the-emotion-code

https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/basics/intergenerational-trauma

This blog post is for general information, education and personal growth only.  The Emotion Code is a complementary and alternative healing approach, and the ideas shared in the book about trapped emotions, energy fields, muscle testing, and magnets are not established medical treatments, or scientifically proven explanations for health conditions.

Everyone's experience is different, and this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any physical or mental health condition.  Please don't use The Emotion Code or any other complementary practice as a replacement for appropriate medical or mental health care.  If you have a health concern, please speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

We encourage you to explore these ideas with an open mind, while also using your own judgement, and doing your own research.  Take what feels helpful for your personal growth, and always choose what is right for your own wellbeing.