Episode 89: When A Relationship Has to Change—How to Tolerate Discomfort, Face an Attachment Void, & Resource Yourself

We need attachments to other people, places, and to God. Yet transitions have a way of shaking up those attachments—even healthy ones!

Today we’re talking all about how to balance our need to hold on to others - and also the need to let go. It takes skill and self-compassion to navigate these seasons of wrestling for more health, more connection, or more freedom.

Here’s what we cover:

1. Healthy & unhealthy attachments (9:34)

2. The 2 competing relationship needs everyone has (21:45)

3. Attachment voids (28:12)

4. Practices to anchor yourself (33:50)

5. The role of liminal figures (40:08)

Find a full transcript and list of resources from this episode here.

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Related Episodes:

Episode 16: What are Attachment Styles and Why Does it Matter?

Episode 88: Navigating Transitions—What to Do When Change Stirs up Anxiety, Uncertainty, or Confusion

Other episodes with Rowena Day:

Episode 44: Why Anger is a Surprising Friend, What Happens When You Avoid It, and How to Create Space for Healthy Expression of Anger in Your Family

Episode 63: Spiritual Direction, the Power of Listening, & How to Attune to Yourself and to Others

Episode 31: Peace-Keeping, Anger Avoidance, and How to Start Using Your Voice

Music by Andy Luiten

Sound editing by Kelly Kramarik

While Dr. Cook is a counselor, the content of this podcast and any of the products provided by Dr. Cook are not specific counseling advice nor are they a substitute for individual counseling. The content and products provided on this podcast are for informational purposes only.

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