So often in healing work, we focus on checking in with ourselves—tuning into our needs, emotions, and boundaries. And while that’s essential, something I’ve come to appreciate deeply is the power of checking in with each other. Healing isn’t just about self-awareness; it’s also about creating relationships that feel safe, reciprocal, and nourishing.
One of the most meaningful shifts in my own journey has been cultivating relationships that honor my authentic self—where I don’t have to self-abandon to stay connected. Lately, I’ve been especially grateful for the way my closest people hold space for one another. In our group texts, someone will often send a simple message: “Hey all, weekly wellness check—how’s everyone doing?” It’s a small thing, but for the younger part of me who once felt unseen in relationships, it’s profoundly healing.
A therapeutic tenet I return to often is that healing happens in relationship. If you’ve experienced toxic dynamics in the past, it makes sense that relationships might feel like something to navigate carefully. But healing isn’t just about setting boundaries, and it’s definitely not about creating walls out of self-protection—it’s also about allowing safe people in.
This week, consider the 4 qualities of safe connection:
- Warmth – emotional attunement, care, and responsiveness
- Consistency – reliability and predictability
- Respect – a foundation of mutual regard and autonomy
- Reciprocity – mutual give and take of care, emotional availability, and support
When you check in with yourself this week, I invite you to also check in with who you’re surrounding yourself with.
We can be hurt in relationships, but we can also be healed in them. If relational wounds have left you questioning your worth or safety in connection, therapy can be a powerful place to rebuild that trust—starting with yourself. If this resonates with you, let’s connect.
Warmly,
Elana
