IS THIS NORMAL?
HOW TO SPOT EMOTIONAL ABUSE IN A RELATIONSHIP
Emotional abuse rarely begins with fireworks. It doesn’t always look dramatic or explosive, and that’s exactly why it can be so difficult to recognize. More often, it sneaks in through subtle comments, shifting boundaries, or moments that leave you second-guessing yourself. That
question alone can be a sign worth paying attention to if you’ve ever caught yourself wondering, “Is this normal? ” CONSTANT CRITICISM Every relationship has disagreements, but emotional abuse crosses the line into repeated belittling. This might show up as mocking your interests, dismissing your goals, or making you feel “not good enough.” Over time, this constant erosion of self-worth can lead to self-doubt and a shrinking of your personality as you attempt to avoid conflict. GASLIGHTING Gaslighting is a serious tactic. An emotionally abusive partner may deny things you remember clearly, twist events, or claim you’re “too sensitive” whenever you express hurt. The goal is to keep you off balance, unsure of your own judgment, and dependent on their version of the truth. ISOLATION FROM FRIENDS AND FAMILY Another sign of emotional abuse is isolation, and it often starts subtly. Maybe they complain about
your friends, make you feel guilty for seeing family, or pout when you make independent plans. Over time, you may notice your world getting smaller, not because you want it to, but because it keeps the peace. Abusers know that controlling your support system makes it easier to control you. CONTROL DISGUISED AS ‘CONCERN’ Some emotionally abusive behaviors arrive dressed as caring gestures. They might insist they “just worry” when they demand to know where you are at all times. They might “help” by managing your money, monitoring your messages, or influencing your day-to-day choices. What begins as attentiveness can easily turn into restriction and surveillance. THE PUSH-PULL CYCLE Many victims describe the emotional whiplash: One moment, your partner is cold, dismissive, or silent; the next, they’re apologizing or acting affectionate. This hot-and-cold pattern keeps you hoping for the good moments and walking on eggshells during the bad ones. It’s confusing and, unfortunately, intentional.
SOLE SEARCHING IS WALKING BAREFOOT A STEP TOWARD WELLNESS OR TOE TROUBLE?
Many people say something special happens when you feel the sand or grass on your bare feet, but is walking shoeless really a step in the right direction for your health, or just a toe trend? Walking barefoot has been touted for its wellness benefits, helping with everything from improved posture to a greater sense of calm. But hot sidewalks, the potential for infections,
good for your mood to walk barefoot in nature, especially on grass or sand. It can create a grounding effect that reduces stress and can lead to better sleep.
TOE TROUBLES
Shoes protect your tootsies from sharp objects, grime, and harmful bacteria, so when you ditch your boots, you risk cuts, infections, and bruising. Not all pathways are created equal, and if you walk on hot surfaces, slippery ground, or poky pebbles, you could get burns, blisters, or even frostbite. It can also be hard on your body. Most of us have been wearing footwear our entire lives, and unsupported movement can change how weight hits our feet. It can cause aches and pains and add additional pressure on your paws. If you are going to take the plunge and kick off your shoes, start with short bursts on soft, clean ground. Heed your heels, and if you feel any pain or irritation, slip your sneakers back on.
and achy heels could all be unwanted side effects of your sandal-free stroll. Before you kick it au naturel , here’s what you need to know about this grounded gait. WALK FOR WELLNESS Walking barefoot can help strengthen your muscles because it forces your feet to work overtime. Shoes tend to limit your natural movement, so going sans sneakers is like a workout for your feet. It can also enhance your balance and coordination, decreasing your fall risk. You’re setting yourself up for better posture when you stroll without shoes, too. Ill-fitting footwear can lead to misalignments and strain your knees, hips, and back. Beyond the physical pluses, evidence shows it’s
2
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator