Relationship with Ourselves
Our attachment system is linked to our stress response, and when it's not properly acknowledged and our needs are not met, it can lead to heightened stress, anxiety, shame, and depression. As a result, we may subconsciously engage in unhealthy coping strategies such as increased substance use, codependency, lashing out, or impulsively leaving the relationship to try to manage our emotional distress. This disconnects us from ourselves and we often need a more embodied approach to understand what it is we need. Recognizing our own patterns and knowing ourselves helps us to find healthier ways to address our needs, which is essential for our personal growth and developing a thriving relationship.