Hi Reader,

This week, my BookBaby Free To Be Me celebrates its 1st birthday!

Like raising a child, the process has been a mix of excitement, deep love, vulnerability and exhaustion.

Watching my baby walk on its own, as it finds its way into the hands and hearts of readers around the world, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

My book has been landing in many hearts lately, including Dr. Scott Conkright’s!

Scott, the creator of the Feel First animal archetype framework, reached out after reading my book. I was honored to join him for a conversation on his podcast to talk about how I began to connect with my feelings.

When I was 30, where my book begins, I was forced to connect with my feelings when I dropped into depression for the first time after leaving a 3-month abusive marriage.

On Scott’s podcast, I get vulnerable about the unconscious coping mechanisms I used to numb and distract from my feelings.

We talk about how I spent years operating primarily as a Puppy, reaching for connection to feel safe, and a Sheepdog, finding my value through endless service and care.

I share how my chronic symptoms were actually a gift, they helped me to reconnect to my true feelings and focus on the deeper emotional healing I needed. And how I used my relationship triggers to fully heal my childhood wounds and move beyond my codependency.

My 20-year healing journey, which is detailed in my memoir, Free To Be Me, helped me move from that constant need for reassurance into becoming a healthy, grounded Sea Turtle.

I’ve learned how to regulate my nervous system so that distance no longer feels like a threat. I’m finally okay with space, and I have the tools to take care of my feelings in the moment, rather than abandoning myself for others.

Listen to our podcast episode to learn more about Scott’s animal archetypes, which go far beyond the standard “anxious” and “avoidant” labels, and how I found my inner peace.

​Watch on YouTube​

​Listen on Apple​

​Listen on Spotify ​

I’d love to hear your thoughts and takeaways, and please let me know if you have any questions.

With so much love,

Elicia

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