In Nonviolent Communication (NVC), feelings and needs cards are used to deepen self-discovery and facilitate empathy by helping you identify what you are experiencing and what you value. They are universally divided into ==emotions experienced when needs are met, unmet, and the core universal human needs==. [[1](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/), [2](https://www.cnvc.org/store/feelings-and-needs-inventory), [3](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU), [4](https://www.scribd.com/document/734022579/NVC-CARDS), [5](https://www.malindaelizabethberry.net/feelings--needs-cards.html)] ### Feelings (When Needs Are Met) These cards represent positive emotions that arise when your core needs are fulfilled. [[1](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/)] - **Joy/Connection:** Affectionate, Alive, Calm, Confident, Content, Curious, Delighted, Energetic, Engaged, Excited, Fascinated, Friendly, Glad, Hopeful, Joyful, Loving, Moved, Peaceful, Playful, Relaxed, Satisfied, Tender, Thrilled, Warm. [[1](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/)] ### Feelings (When Needs Are Not Met) These cards represent uncomfortable or negative emotions that serve as signals that your needs are currently lacking. [[1](https://nvc-uk.com/product/feelings-and-needs-card-set/), [2](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/), [3](https://www.malindaelizabethberry.net/feelings--needs-cards.html)] - **Distress/Fear:** Agitated, Alarmed, Ambivalent, Angry, Annoyed, Anxious, Confused, Despairing, Devastated, Disconnected, Discouraged, Embarrassed, Exasperated, Flustered, Grief, Heartbroken, Helpless, Hopeless, Impatient, Irritated, Lonely, Longing, Nervous, Overwhelmed, Protective, Sad, Scared, Stressed, Suspicious, Tense, Terrified, Torn, Troubled. [[1](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/)] ### Core Universal Human Needs These cards represent the fundamental values and desires that drive all human behavior. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] - **Connection:** Acceptance, Affection, Appreciation, Belonging, Communication, Community, Companionship, Compassion, Empathy, Inclusion, Intimacy, Love, Mutual Respect, Nurturance, Support, Trust, To be seen/heard. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU), [2](https://www.scribd.com/document/724300841/Grok-Cards-Needs)] - **Autonomy & Freedom:** Authenticity, Choice, Competence, Freedom, Independence, Integrity, Space, Spontaneity. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] - **Physical Well-Being:** Air, Food, Health, Movement, Physical Exertion, Rest, Safety, Shelter, Sleep, Touch. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] - **Meaning & Learning:** Awareness, Celebration, Challenge, Clarity, Contribution, Creativity, Discovery, Effectiveness, Growth, Learning, Mourning, Purpose. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] - **Harmony & Peace:** Balance, Beauty, Ease, Equality, Fairness, Order, Peace, Predictability, Structure. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] - **Play:** Humor, Light-heartedness, Play. [[1](https://equanimity.nu/en/feelings-and-needs-list/?srsltid=AfmBOopasAwKyol4QCU0T5gmbWQQCXurqOWFqzpX7Bwq47E6kIsQoHhU)] Printable & Physical Card Resources If you are looking to print or purchase these cards for personal practice, therapy, or group exercises, you can find various decks and categorized lists here: - **Official Decks:** Purchase standard 64-card physical decks directly from the [Center for Nonviolent Communication](https://www.cnvc.org/store/feelings-and-needs-card-set) or from [NVC UK](https://nvc-uk.com/product/feelings-and-needs-card-set/). - **Digital Lists:** Explore the detailed [Sociocracy For All List](https://www.sociocracyforall.org/nvc-feelings-and-needs-list/) for a breakdown of met and unmet emotions. - **DIY & Card Activities:** Read [Malinda Berry's Guide](https://www.malindaelizabethberry.net/feelings--needs-cards.html) to understand how to craft and illustrate your own. - **Children's Resources:** Learn about definitions for specific feelings on [Daily NVC](https://www.dailynvc.com/feelings-cards).