Name what you feel
The feelings wheel.
Start at the centre, then move outward until a word fits. Naming it is the first step back.
Every feeling on this wheel, explained in plain language: The Feelings Library
Building something with this? Download the taxonomy as CSV or JSON
The feelings wheel: name what you feel, then find the one thing that helps
When a feeling is hard to name, it is harder to soothe. The Solace Feelings Wheel is our own interactive take on a simple, well-loved idea: start from a broad feeling at the centre and move outward to the more specific word underneath it. A vague, heavy mood becomes a precise word, and a precise word is something you can actually work with.
What is a feelings wheel?
A feelings wheel arranges emotions from a few core feelings out to more precise words, which helps build the emotional vocabulary that research links to better emotion regulation. It builds on the long-standing emotion-wheel concept and on the science of basic emotions, the work of researchers like Paul Ekman on a small set of core human emotions and Robert Plutchik on how feelings relate and combine. We credit that science as the foundation; the wheel, the words, the design, and the guidance here are entirely Solace's own.
How to use it
Six core emotions sit at the centre, each opening into a ring of more precise feelings. Tap or click any feeling and the centre names it back to you, then points you to the single Solace tool most likely to help in that moment: feeling fearful or anxious leads to Breathing, sadness to Clear Your Mind, happiness to Gratitude, surprise to Mood, anger to Break It Down, and disgust to Choose. One feeling, one calm next step. No account is needed to use the wheel online.
Is there a free feelings wheel?
Yes. Solace's feelings wheel is free to use online and free to download as a printable PDF, no account or email required.
How many emotions are on the wheel?
Six core feelings at the centre, each opening into six more specific words in the ring around it, 42 in total. Different feelings wheels use different counts; this is how Solace's is built.
Can I print the feelings wheel for a classroom or clinical setting?
Yes, the PDF is free to print and share for personal, classroom, or clinical use.
This tool is for self-reflection and building emotional awareness. It is not medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you're struggling, please reach out to a qualified professional or a local crisis line.