THE EMBODY LAB BLOG
Interested in writing for us? Submit your work here.
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.
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.
The Art of Somatic Coaching with Richard Strozzi-Heckler
We recently caught up with Richard Strozzi-Heckler during his Master Class on The Art of Somatic Coaching. Here’s what he had to say about developing one’s skills as a somatic coach.
What Advice Would You Offer to Someone Starting Out Their Coaching Journey?
We recently caught up with the some of the faculty from our Mind-Body Coaching Certificate and asked them what advice they would offer to someone starting out their coaching journey.
Find out what they had to say….
The Body as a Domain
We recently caught up with Richard Strozzi-Heckler during our One-Day Summit. Here’s what he had to say about the body as a domain of action, learning, and dignity.
What Excites Our Faculty About the Mind-Body Coaching Program?
We recently caught up with the some of the faculty from our Mind-Body Coaching Certificate and asked them what they find unique and exciting about the program.
Find out what they had to say….
The Importance of Learning from a Coach
We recently caught up with Richard Strozzi-Heckler during our One-Day Summit. Here’s what he had to say about the power of coaching and the mind-body connection.
What Are Some of the Most Powerful Mind-Body Tools Taught in the Coaching Program?
We recently caught up with the some of the faculty from our Mind-Body Coaching Certificate and asked them “What are some of the most powerful mind-body tools taught in this program?”
Find out what they had to say….
Why is Somatic Coaching such a powerful approach for transformation?
We recently caught up with the some of the faculty from our Mind-Body Coaching Certificate and asked them “Why is Somatic Coaching such a powerful approach for transformation?”
Find out what they had to say….