Emotional armor is a term that resonates deeply with many of us, especially those who have faced trauma or emotional upheaval. It refers to the protective mechanisms we develop to shield ourselves from pain, vulnerability, and the unpredictability of life. This armor can manifest in various ways—through behaviors, thought patterns, or even physical postures. You...
Relational trauma can feel like a heavy weight, often manifesting in the way we connect with others. It arises from experiences in relationships that leave us feeling unsafe, unheard, or unworthy. Perhaps you’ve experienced betrayal, neglect, or emotional abuse, and these experiences can create deep-seated patterns that affect how you relate to yourself and others....
Self-compassion is often viewed through the lens of thought and emotion, but it is deeply rooted in our physical experience. When you think about self-compassion, consider how your body responds to kindness. The sensations you feel—warmth in your chest, a softening of your shoulders, or a gentle release of tension—are all signals from your body...
Hyper-independence often emerges as a protective mechanism, a response to past experiences that may have left you feeling vulnerable or unsupported. It’s a way of coping that can feel empowering at first, as it allows you to navigate life on your own terms. However, this self-reliance can also create barriers to connection and intimacy, leading...
Over-accommodation often feels like a necessary response to the demands of life, especially when you are sensitive to the needs of others. You may find yourself bending over backward to ensure that everyone around you is comfortable, happy, and satisfied. While this instinct can stem from a place of kindness and empathy, it can also...
Emotional flooding can feel like being swept away by a powerful tide, leaving you gasping for breath as you struggle to stay afloat. It occurs when your emotions become overwhelming, often triggered by stress, trauma, or even everyday challenges. In these moments, it can feel as though your emotional responses are no longer under your...
Emotional overwhelm can feel like a tidal wave crashing over you, leaving you gasping for breath as you struggle to stay afloat. It’s that sensation of being flooded with feelings—anxiety, sadness, anger, or even joy—that can be both disorienting and exhausting. You may find yourself caught in a whirlwind of thoughts and sensations, unable to...
In our modern lives, the relentless pace can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself caught in a whirlwind of responsibilities, deadlines, and expectations that seem to multiply by the day. The world around you often glorifies busyness, equating it with success and worthiness. As you navigate this fast-paced environment, it can be challenging to carve...
In the quiet moments of your day, you may find yourself feeling an overwhelming sense of exhaustion that seems to seep into every aspect of your life. This is trauma fatigue, a state that can arise when the weight of past experiences becomes too heavy to carry. It’s not just physical tiredness; it’s a deep...
Nervous regulation is a fundamental aspect of our emotional and physical well-being. It refers to how our nervous system responds to stressors and stimuli in our environment, influencing our feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. When we talk about nervous regulation, we are essentially discussing the balance between our sympathetic nervous system, which prepares us for action,...
