Excitement and Exhilaration, the difference

Excitement is a buzzing, energised thrill about what is happening. Exhilaration is the rush itself, a thrilling surge of aliveness.

Each in a line

Excitement

Excitement is the buzzing, energised pull toward what is happening or about to happen. Heart rate rises, breath quickens, attention sharpens. Energy moves outward and forward. It is the body responding to something coming or unfolding right now.

Anticipation family

Exhilaration

Exhilaration is a thrilling rush of energy and aliveness. Pulse races, breath quickens, and the chest expands. Every part of the system engages with what is happening. You feel fully alive, with energy that wants expression.

Joy family

Pleasantness and energy
high energylow energyunpleasantpleasantExcitementExhilaration
Where each lives in the body

Excitement

Head
Pressure, fullness, mental load
Moderate
Face
Heat, flush, expression building
Moderate
Chest
Tightness or warmth
Moderate
Arms
Energy or heaviness
Moderate
Hands
Slight movement
Quiet
Legs
Light awareness
Quiet
Stomach
A gentle stir
Quiet

Exhilaration

Head
Tunnel-vision tightness
Strong
Chest
Heaviness, ache, or pounding
Strong
Arms
Strong activation or weight
Strong
Face
Heat, flush, expression building
Moderate
Legs
Heaviness or restlessness
Moderate
Hands
Activation, urge to grip
Moderate
Feet
Faint contact
Quiet
How long they last

Duration has not been measured for these words.

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