Episode 4: Safety in Connection

Safety doesn’t just live inside us; it grows when we feel connected to others. In this episode, we explore how relationships can either build or erode our sense of safety, and why noticing subtle cues in ourselves and others helps us respond with care and respect.

We’ll touch on how the nervous system is wired for connection (sometimes called co-regulation in Polyvagal Theory), which simply means the calming effect we have on each other. Just like babies settle when held, adults also feel safer when they’re with people who are calm and caring.

Somatic Practices in this episode: **Somatic practices are simple ways of listening to and supporting our body so that we can respond with more clarity and care. 

🫂 Mirrored Breathing:  breathing in sync with another person (either face to face or visualised) to feel more connected.

👀 Soft Eyes: gently softening your gaze to release tension and invite calm.

(You’ll be guided through these practices in the episode. If you’re listening alone, you could adapt them when at your desk or walking.)

By the end of this conversation, you’ll understand more about how safety is built in relationships and have two simple practices to experience steadiness and connection with others.

✨ Feeling Safe Standing Strong is brought to you by The Institute of Hope (IOH) in collaboration with Protective Behaviours International (PBI).

🌏 I have the privilege of living, loving, learning, and creating on Larrakia Country and I pay my respects to Elders past, present, and emerging.

🔗 Find out more at www.theinstituteofhope.com.au or www.protectivebehavioursinternational.net