No, I used "literal" perhaps incorrectly but to mean that it was physically difficult for me to read this article for an extended period of time; sometimes when I read or hear about injuries I guess I imagine feeling them myself and I become uncomfortable. I actually had to take several breaks from this article before I could finish it. I wouldn't say it's that I'm squeamish but more that I am sensitive to the thought of brutal injury. "Disgusted" is the wrong word as well. Perhaps "empathetic."

Maybe just "sensitive" :) Sometimes if I apply light pressure to vulnerable areas of my body it makes my uneasiness subside a little, for instance I'll rest my neck in my hand or (this is I guess a little more unusual of a physical reaction) I'll hold my wrists with my hands. I guess it is a protective feeling. Even though I am not threatened when I read about physical violence, especially extreme or certain kinds (whoo let's not talk about shooting up please!) I still get physically uneasy.

I had to walk away from this article more than twice. Clearly it was a good read though as I came back :)