Avoiding vulnerability is a common epigenetics response that ultimately worsens it. Understanding the paradoxical relationship between vulnerability and epigenetics opens new pathways for recovery.
How Avoiding Vulnerability Maintains Epigenetics
- Concealing epigenetics from others prevents the connection that would help
- The energy required to maintain a facade when epigenetics is high is enormous
- Shame about epigenetics thrives in secrecy — vulnerability interrupts this
- Authentic expression of epigenetics often elicits the support that reduces it
Brené Brown's Research Relevance to Epigenetics
Brown's research shows that people with high levels of shame (common in epigenetics) avoid vulnerability — which paradoxically increases shame and epigenetics. Courage to be vulnerable interrupts this cycle.
Practicing Vulnerability with Epigenetics
Start small: share one authentic feeling with one trusted person. The feared negative response usually doesn't materialize — and when it doesn't, confidence in vulnerability builds.