In an abusive relationship, there is one abuser and one victim – that’s the truth. The victim doesn’t share equal responsibility for the abuse. The idea that there are “two abusers” is absurd and completely ignores the reality of what it’s like to be in that situation.
Intimacy is a powerful form of medicine, deeply rooted in the biological exchange between partners. Through physical closeness and emotional connection, we trigger the release of a cascade of hormones that promote health and well-being.
By recognising what true respect, trust, and equality feel like in a relationship, we can empower ourselves and others to choose better. You are worthy of a relationship where your voice is heard, your boundaries are respected, and your growth is nurtured. Abuse is not normal, and is never acceptable. You’re stronger than you think, and your journey to healing starts today.
Many abusers minimise, justify, or deny that behaviours such as shoving, pushing, grabbing, throwing, squeezing, or intimidating are acts of violence, and fail to recognise these behaviours as forms of violence and assault.
Abusers are often highly manipulative, using charm, half truths, lies and calculated displays of remorse to forge a favourable image and deflect accountability.
Relationships feel disconnected and cold when we leave people guessing the truth of what we’re up against – we leave them out in the cold.
As you can imagine, this client arrived in a cloud of distress, frustration and uncertainty. Throughout the 90 minute session of conversation and somatic exercise, he was lit with reassurance, empowerment, confidence, curiosity and inspiration.
One very interesting thing that the polyvagal ladder reveals is how our sense of safety and connection are crucial to experiencing pleasure.
I know a thing or two about motivation and discipline, and I’m not just speaking from my experience as a fitness/figure/bodybuilding competitor.
