Unpacking Defensiveness: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse with Yitz Epstein
When we defend against that feedback from others and essentially, when we deny the awareness that needs to happen about our own shadows, we cannot take responsibility for those parts of the self and ultimately heal them.
Ever feel like your walls go up the moment someone gets too close? In this episode of the Narcissism Recovery Podcast, Yitz Epstein takes a closer look at defensiveness and its impact on our emotional and mental health. He starts by breaking down what defensiveness is and how it stems from our instinct to shield ourselves from emotional pain.
Yitz explains that our ego often views transparency and vulnerability as threats, causing us to put up barriers when we feel exposed. This reaction can sabotage our intimate relationships, making it hard to connect deeply with others. Yitz dives into how defensiveness not only keeps us from being authentic but also prevents us from growing and healing. When we're defensive, we're not open to feedback, which means we miss out on opportunities to learn about our own flaws and shadows.
By rejecting feedback, we avoid the very awareness needed for personal growth. Yitz encourages listeners to embrace feedback and take responsibility for their own healing. Through understanding and addressing our defensive behaviors, we can break free from the chains of narcissistic abuse and move towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on overcoming defensiveness and fostering genuine connections.