Sarah and Her Protector

Sarah and Her Protector

Background 

Sarah often feels anxious when her boss asks her to speak up in team meetings. Her heart races, her palms get sweaty, and her mind goes blank. This reaction frustrates her because she knows her boss just wants to hear her ideas, but she can’t shake the feeling that something bad will happen if she speaks up. 

Identifying the Protector 
After Sarah learns about the concept of the protector. She realizes that this anxiety and physical response might be her "protector" trying to keep her safe from something it perceives as a threat. 

Understanding the Protector’s Origins 
As she reflects, Sarah recalls how she was often criticized as a child when she tried to express her opinions at home. Over time, her protector learned that staying quiet would keep her safe from judgment or criticism. 

Interacting with the Protector 
In Waji’s, Sarah begins to talk to her protector during her session: 

  • Acknowledgment: She tells her protector, “I understand why you want to keep me safe. You were protecting me when I was younger, and it really helped me then.” 


  • Reassurance: Sarah then gently lets the protector know, “But I’m in a different place now. My boss wants to hear my thoughts, and I’m safe to speak up. I can handle this, and I don’t need you to worry so much.” 


  • Visualization: As Sarah follows the eye movements in Waji, she imagines her protector relaxing, slowly stepping back as she reassures it that she’s in control and safe. 


Result 
Over time, Sarah notices her anxiety easing in team meetings. Her protector isn’t jumping in as forcefully, and she’s able to speak up more comfortably. Each session with Waji helps her reinforce this new understanding with her protector, allowing her to feel safer and more in control in the prese 

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