Gastritis and the Stomach That “Listens”

“The stomach doesn’t only digest food — it responds to the pace, tension, and emotions we carry.”

We usually think digestion begins and ends with food.

But the stomach responds to far more than what is on our plate.

Every day something enters our digestive system — not only meals, but also tension, speed, swallowed words, and emotional reactions. In that sense, the stomach does not literally have ears, yet it “listens” to everything we take in.

What Really Enters the Digestive System?

Of course, food quality matters. Irritating foods, alcohol, medications, or infections can damage the stomach lining. But digestion is also deeply influenced by:

• how fast we eat

• whether we eat calmly or in conflict

• whether we rush or breathe

• whether emotions are expressed or suppressed

Modern science recognizes the gut–brain connection. The digestive system is closely linked to the nervous system. When we experience stress, anger, frustration, or chronic worry, stress hormones such as cortisol can influence stomach acid secretion, blood flow, and muscle contractions in the digestive tract.

The stomach lining has a protective mucus barrier. Under ongoing stress, this protective system may become more vulnerable. Acid levels may fluctuate, and sensitivity can increase. Over time, symptoms such as heartburn, burning sensations, nausea, bloating, or discomfort may appear or intensify.

Stress does not literally “digest” the stomach, but it can aggravate inflammation and make existing issues worse.

Swallowed Emotions and the Stomach

Many people swallow anger instead of expressing it.

They hold irritation inside.

They avoid conflict and keep silent.

The body does not forget what the mind tries to ignore.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, digestion is closely linked to emotional patterns. The Liver system is associated with tension and suppressed anger, while the Spleen and Stomach systems relate to worry and overthinking. When emotional tension remains unresolved, digestion may feel tight, reactive, or unstable.

Gastritis — inflammation of the stomach lining — can have multiple causes: infection, medication use, alcohol, diet, or autoimmune processes. But stress is also recognized as a contributing factor. When someone lives in constant tension, acid production and muscular contraction patterns may become dysregulated.

Mood and digestion often mirror one another:

When the stomach hurts, mood declines.

When stress rises, digestion reacts.

My Personal Experience

For years, I experienced frequent heartburn during periods of emotional overload and internal tension. It wasn’t only about what I ate. It was about how I lived — rushing, holding things in, carrying irritation without release.

When I began paying attention not only to my food but also to my emotional rhythm, my digestion improved. Slowing down, breathing before meals, reducing conflict at the table, and working on internal tension made a visible difference.

Alongside these changes, I found gentle aromatherapy massage supportive for stress-related abdominal discomfort.

A Gentle Supportive Blend for Occasional Heartburn

For occasional tension-related discomfort in the upper abdomen, I use a very mild topical blend:

• 2 drops Sweet Marjoram essential oil (Origanum majorana)

• 4 drops Apricot Kernel oil (carrier oil)

Mix and gently massage the upper abdominal area in slow clockwise movements.

Use up to 2–3 times per day for no more than 5 consecutive days, followed by a 7-day break.

Important:

• Essential oils should never be applied undiluted to the skin.

• Not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy.

• Not suitable for children under 3 years old.

• Persistent, severe, or recurring digestive symptoms require medical evaluation. Chronic gastritis can lead to more serious complications, including ulcers.

Sweet Marjoram is traditionally valued in aromatherapy for its calming and relaxing properties, especially when muscular or nervous tension contributes to digestive discomfort. It does not replace medical treatment but may gently support relaxation.

A Final Reflection

The stomach does not literally hear our thoughts.

But it responds to our state.

It reacts to speed.

It reacts to fear.

It reacts to suppression.

Perhaps caring for digestion is not only about asking:

“What did I eat?”

But also:

“What did I feel?”

“What did I hold inside?”

“How safely do I live?”

Our digestive system is one of the most sensitive mirrors of our inner life.

And sometimes, healing begins not only with diet — but with honesty.