THE EMBODY LAB BLOG


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Somatic Practices Guest User Somatic Practices Guest User

Breaking Free from Fawning: Reclaiming Your Authentic Self Through Somatic Awareness

In relationships and workplaces, many people find themselves saying “yes” when they really mean “no.” They avoid conflict, mold themselves to fit others’ expectations, and struggle to voice their true needs. This is known as fawning, a survival response deeply rooted in the nervous system.

Fawning often develops when early experiences teach us that being agreeable ensures safety, whether from a parent, caregiver, or larger social system. Unlike fight, flight, or freeze, fawning is a people-pleasing survival mechanism that prioritizes keeping the peace over honoring one’s truth. Over time, it can lead to emotional exhaustion, resentment, and a loss of authentic self-expression.

Through somatic coaching, individuals can develop an embodied awareness of their patterns, learn to regulate their nervous system, and cultivate the safety needed to express their truth without fear.

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EMOTIONS Guest User EMOTIONS Guest User

The Two Wings of Wholeness: How Self-Esteem and Purpose Support Each Other

One of the main reasons clients seek my support is twofold: they struggle with self-esteem and feel disconnected from their sense of purpose. 

Many carry a deep-seated sense of unworthiness that seeps into their daily lives, shaping their behaviors and relationships in ways they may not even realize. This experience is unfortunately widespread. We live in a society that often measures our worth by productivity and achievement, and many of us grew up in environments that reinforced this idea. 

Generations before us had little understanding of emotional intelligence, nonviolent communication, and the lasting impact of trauma. As a result, many adults find themselves navigating life with an internalized sense of judgment and a relentless inner critic. 

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