Pukupuku

Pukupuku is a Māori term from New Zealand that describes the sensation of a deep, internal pressure or fullness in the stomach or chest, often associated with emotional distress or physical discomfort. It is commonly felt during moments of anxiety, worry, or grief, and reflects an inward constriction or tightness that can be difficult to articulate. Pukupuku highlights how emotions can manifest physically, serving as a reminder of the mind-body connection. While often used in a cultural context, it can be understood as a vivid way to describe inner feelings of heaviness or constriction rooted in emotional states.