Conversations from the Heart
A weekly, soul-nourishing podcast offering psychologically grounded, heart-centered reflections on human relationships, inner healing, and compassion-based communication.
Focused on live mini-coaching moments to help callers shift from reactive, domination-based communication to collaborative, heart-centered connection. Listen for new scripts for stuck situations, new ways of responding to old relationship dynamics and guidance on how to approach these situations with empathy, self-awareness, and effective communication strategies. Here, we emphasize understanding both one's own needs and the needs of others, creating safe spaces for vulnerable conversations, and finding ways to express ourselves authentically while respecting others' boundaries.
Conversations from the Heart
#75 - Letting Go of Normal
Today's conversation with Julia and Meka explores the problems with being "normal" and recommends strategies for being authentic and real, instead. The idea of being "normal" can be misused to keep people compliant and obedient - but this isn't always the "healthiest" or wisest move.
Additionally, this episode features some discussion on the way domination systems use the concept to uphold existing power structures via moralistic judgements of "good/bad" and "normal/abnormal".
A takeaway: Instead of asking "Is this normal?" try asking instead "Is this working for me?"
- 3:10 How can I remind others how I want to engage?
- 7:30 Care for the impact vs. responsibility for others' reactions.
- 11:30 What is "normal"?
- 14:26 What the concept of normal is used for.
- 15:32 Why we want to inspire change.
- 18:55 Just because something is normal doesn't mean it's healthy.
- 22:20 The way domination systems use the idea of "normal" to enforce obedience and conformity.
- 30:30 The difference between normal and healthy.
- 35:02 The benefit of embracing our authenticity.
- 39:02 Questions we can ask ourselves to reflect
If you're looking for a high caliber small group where you can deepen your practice and really live into the principles of compassion, non-violence and relational presence, apply for The Mentorship Circle, which will begin November 2nd. It will be three hours every month of advanced teaching, deep discussion, and practical integration. Learn more here.
For ongoing practice and deeper learning, join my monthly membership program. You will find a safe space for live discussions and a supportive community of like-minded, open-hearted humans.
Stay updated on new episodes and resources by subscribing wherever you listen to podcasts or visiting yvetteerasmus.com.
Here are more ways to connect with me: