Episode #55
You Can't Think Your Way Into Safety with Janet Friesen
What if understanding why you feel unsafe isn't enough to actually feel safe? In Part 2 of this conversation, Patria and Janet Friesen explore what happens when we're not simply feeling stuck, but are dealing with circumstances or relationships that genuinely restrict our ability to change. They discuss controlling and toxic relationships, the importance of outside support, and how trusted friends, therapists, coaches, mentors, and others can help us recognize what is and isn't normal or safe. The conversation then turns toward co-regulation and the importance of connection. Janet explains how safe people, places, pets, hobbies, and activities can help us regulate and create small pockets of safety in our lives. Patria and Janet also explore why insight alone isn't enough. Healing involves the body as well as the mind, and practices like boundaries, routines, grounding, breathing, movement, sleep, social connection, meditation, prayer, and stillness can all play a role. Janet also discusses therapeutic approaches including talk therapy, EMDR, and body-based approaches, while emphasizing the importance of learning to listen to what we need. In this episode: When circumstances genuinely restrict change Controlling and toxic relationships The importance of outside support Co-regulation and connection Creating pockets of safety Boundaries and personal agency Embodiment and nervous-system regulation Grounding and breathing EMDR and body-based approaches Learning to listen to what we need More info on Janet Friesen: The Broken & Beautiful Website If this episode resonates with you, follow or subscribe to Echoes and Edges on your favorite podcast platform, leave a five-star review, and share with a friend who might need a gentle invitation to self-understanding. Connect With Patria Facebook Instagram The Broken & Beautiful Website Credits: Echoes and Edges is Produced and Edited by: Stephen R. Sanders Music Promoted by Envato
