In a former romantic relationship, I endured hell.

Why?

Because I loved the person more than I loved myself.

So I quietly suffered...I made him more important than me...I felt it was my responsibility to make sure that it worked.

My internal chaos that I must continue this relationship no matter what became very draining and very difficult for me to endure. My spirit started to break.

Though I didn't know it back then, this is something that's called codependency.

Codependency is when someone else's needs, feelings, and problems become your personal and private responsibility. It's when you don't know how to say no.

It's when you don't know how to separate the space between I really really care about you and this isn't mine to hold for you.

It gets really heavy really fast.

Because I went through (and ultimately overcame) this heart wrenching experience, I thought I'd share with all of you some of the ways codependency manifests so you can take a look and see if it's something you might need help with too.

Codependency may look like: caretaking; controlling; repressing your feelings; manipulation; self neglect; not trusting your instincts; not owning your power with people; believing you aren't worthy; martyrdom; addictive behaviors; being filled with fear and panic; etc.

Those who find the courage to ask for help and heal are the people who ultimately have healthy and thriving relationships.

If you want to learn how to say no; how to set boundaries; how to listen to your feelings, wants, and needs; and how to respond to others in a responsible and loving way, it's time to pursue and/or continue to walk the path of ancient energy healing just like me and my friend Buddha.

I promise you won't be disappointed.