Are your feelings making you sick?

Are Your Feelings Making You Sick?

Emotions don't just live in our heads and hearts — they can show up in our bodies, too. Consider this: a client of mine began experiencing a string of dental problems. She was also someone who frequently voiced frustration in traffic, raged at circumstances beyond her control, and openly criticized people she deemed foolish. After a visit to the dentist revealed multiple cavities, the connection became hard to ignore.

A cavity, by definition, is permanently damaged tooth enamel caused by sugar, bacteria, and acid. Interestingly, those same ingredients — sweetness turned corrosive, invisible buildup, and something acidic eating away beneath the surface — sound a lot like unprocessed anger.

This is where the Enneagram becomes a powerful tool for self-awareness. Knowing your type or number can help you identify which areas of your physical body, mind, or emotional life may be vulnerable to your personality's core challenge — sometimes called a "passion" or "character defect." My client was an Enneagram Type 8, whose defining passion is anger. Rather than continuing to let that anger erupt unchecked, she was invited to lead with wisdom instead of reaction.

Every Enneagram type has a protective virtue — a higher-level response that counters its core challenge and supports overall wellbeing. For this client, wisdom meant two things: taking better care of her dental hygiene, and learning not just to manage her emotions, but to release them in a more measured, intentional way. Of course, always check with your doctor for any medical issues as well.

Your personality type may be speaking through your body. Are you listening?

You deserve to feel well — in your body, your mind, and your heart. Let the Enneagram guide you there. Take the first step toward understanding yourself more deeply. Reach out today and let's talk.

Hi! I am Paula McCoach of Your Number Matters. As an experienced Enneagram coach & consultant, I specialize in helping others discover their Enneagram number & use their strengths to transform into their best selves. I offer both in-person & online coaching for individuals & groups.

I’ve been actively studying and working with the Enneagram for over 20 years, with a focus in the Riso-Hudson tradition. My journey has included participation in numerous Enneagram retreats, workshops, and trainings aimed at deepening both personal growth and professional application.

Since 2019, I’ve been a member of an advanced monthly Enneagram study group facilitated by certified Enneagram coaches and authors, and I am currently training with a Riso-Hudson Certified Enneagram coach and licensed therapist. I’m also a member of the International Enneagram Association (IEA), where I continue my education through ongoing trainings and community engagement.

My approach integrates psychological insight, somatic awareness, and spiritual development—bringing depth and compassion to individuals and groups seeking transformation through the lens of the Enneagram.

Outside of my Enneagram business, I am a Tutor both privately and with Wright Academics. I tutor in English Language Arts, writing, executive function, as well as in test prep for SAT, ACT and ISEE.