What does Vulnerability really mean? For me it’s a quality of being that is gentle, that doesn’t harden and contract from life. When we are uncomfortable and our reactions are coming up, when there is strong emotion, vulnerability allows feeling this, being fragile, being delicate with ourselves.

Letting the feelings be, without getting caught up in them, but also without trying to take ourselves away from them. To stay in our body. At a somatic level letting our body stay gentle and soft, allowing the feeling of emotion in the tissue, muscles, organs. Having an intension to stay conscious with breathing and with mindful actions.

Vulnerability also for me means honesty and authenticity. Being truthful with others about where we are at, and what is going on. We may not need to share everything but we can bring a realness and not have to put on a happy face, or go into anger or nervous energy to mask what’s there. To be honest with others about how their actions and words might have impacted us, and be open to hearing feedback on how we might be experienced by others.