Why distance feels safer than vulnerability 

How self-protection turns into emotional isolation 

Tools to recognize when you’re shutting down and how to pause the reflex 

Practices for connection that don’t compromise your boundaries

You keep people at arm’s length, even when you want closeness 

Sharing your inner world feels risky, even with people you trust 

You pride yourself on being self-contained but sometimes feel alone inside the walls 

Intimacy can feel like a loss of control

Attachment map + nervous system snapshot 

Reflection prompts to uncover where your walls serve and where they isolate 

Somatic practices to feel safe when opening up 

Scripts for communicating your need for space without shutting down 

A daily practice for balancing independence and closeness

More choice in how and when you open up 

Less shutdown after conflict 

Feeling safer sharing yourself without fear of engulfment 

A new balance between privacy and intimacy