When you feel yourself moving into shutdown

when you feel yourself moving into shutdown,

and when you notice the loud withdrawal,

practice moments of quiet connection,

with those who feel safe, those who make you feel seen,

those where you feel understood.

even if just in those micro-moments.

practice connection slowly, and gently,

and allow it to be soft.

honour your solitude,

in a way that gives solace, rather than isolates,

and be intentional for who you connect with.

though, where able,

continue to connect with yourself

connect with your own emotional experience

without judgment, or need to fix,

and connect to what it is that you need

maybe it is rest,

maybe it is stillness, a gentle breath,

maybe it is safe connection,

or maybe permission to just simply be,

exactly where you are