Avoidance
Steering away from a feared or uncomfortable situation, thought, or feeling — a behavioral strategy, not the fear itself.
How it shows up
Avoidance is steering away from what feels threatening or uncomfortable: not opening a letter, skipping a party, changing the subject, staying busy to avoid a thought. In the short term it often brings relief, and avoiding real dangers is sensible. Over time, though, avoiding things that are uncomfortable but not dangerous can keep fear in place and shrink the range of life. It is something done with a feeling, not the feeling itself.
How it differs from Fear
Fear is the feeling of threat; avoidance is the strategy of steering away from whatever triggers it.
Notice
Notice something you have been steering around, and what you expect would happen if you stopped.
Where it is felt
Felt most in the chest and stomach.
Based on Nummenmaa et al. (2014), bodily maps of emotions, and related research. The map shows where people report bodily sensation, on average; individual experience varies.