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Why Joy Feels Unsafe: Healing the Fear of Feeling Good
Manage episode 480855002 series 2921343
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Have you ever noticed yourself sabotaging a peaceful moment or pulling away when things feel too good? Your nervous system might be hitting what I call a "joy threshold" โ that point where feeling good becomes uncomfortable, even threatening.
This deeply personal exploration unpacks why so many of us, especially those who've experienced trauma or lived in survival mode, find joy suspicious and unsafe. When your body has been wired to anticipate danger, the softening that joy requires can trigger all kinds of protective responses. You might start arguments, return to old habits, or simply numb outโnot because you're failing, but because your system is saying, "this unfamiliar feeling might not be safe."
Through gentle, body-based approaches, we explore practical ways to expand your capacity for joy. The guided mindfulness practice invites you to notice what happens when you allow good feelings to stay a little longer without bracing for their disappearance. We examine powerful reflection prompts that help identify your patterns around joy, including the stories your body tells about whether happiness can be trusted. This episode offers liberation from the belief that withholding joy somehow protects you from disappointment.
The work of emotional sobriety isn't just about managing difficult feelingsโit's equally about learning to stay present with good ones. If you find yourself walking the tender line between deep self-awareness and the longing to actually enjoy your life again, this episode provides both validation and a pathway forward. You are allowed to feel good, not because you've earned it through suffering, but simply because you exist. Learn more www.liftoneself.com
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Music by NaturesEye
Opening Music "Whip" by kontraa
Opening music Prazkhanal
Opening music SoulProdMusic
Meditation music Saavane
Chapters
1. Fear of Joy Introduction (00:00:00)
2. Understanding Joy Thresholds (00:01:09)
3. Mindful Practice for Embracing Joy (00:03:08)
4. Reflection Prompts for Joy (00:04:42)
5. Closing Thoughts and Workshop Invitation (00:05:57)
197 episodes
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