saying yes to yourself

Dear Reader,

Secure self-attachment is the practice of building a steady, trusting relationship with ourselves, learning to offer the same love, protection, and care we might give to someone else we cherish. It means knowing that we can rely on ourselves to listen, to honor our needs, and to make choices that keep us safe and whole.

Last week, I shared about leaving a concert that wasn’t what I had hoped for, and how freeing it felt to say no to something that didn’t serve me. That moment was a living example of secure self-attachment: I trusted my own feelings, I honored what was true for me, and I made a choice that supported my well-being rather than forcing myself to stay.

In reply to last week’s email, one of our community members beautifully summed this lesson up in four practices (shared with them by another) that help create secure self-attachment:

Self-compassion | being kind, understanding, and forgiving of yourself.
Self-direction | making authentic choices that are truly what you want.
Self-protection | setting boundaries to keep yourself safe, inside and out.
Self-care | nurturing your spirit, mind, and body, and making time for joy.

When we root ourselves in these practices, we strengthen the inner trust that allows us to meet life with clarity and confidence. Sometimes it shows up in significant ways, and other times it’s as simple as recognizing when it’s time to walk away.

With love and gratitude,
Liz

Inspire | “You should think of your energy as if it’s expensive, as if it’s a luxury item. Not everyone can afford it. Not everyone has invested in you to be able to have the capital for you to care about this.” Taylor Swift

Cook | Apple season is upon us… One of my absolute favorite ways to start the day is with sautéed apples on the stovetop. When I have the time to treat myself, the house smells delicious and my tummy is full of a light, nourishing meal. If you have some time one morning this week, try this tasty recipe.

Try This | Pause and breathe. Inhale gently and think to yourself, “I am safe with me.” Exhale slowly and release, “I let go of what does not serve.” Repeat, anchoring each breath as a practice of secure self-attachment.

Where in your life might a gentle "no" open the door to a deeper "yes"?