Latest / Mamahood After Trauma | Healing Childhood Trauma, Parenting Triggers & Emotional Regulation for Moms
Saying "No" Without Explaining or Apologizing
In this powerful final episode of her August series, Emily Cleghorn tackles one of the hardest challenges for trauma survivors: saying no.
Emily explores why "no" feels so dangerous — rooted in nervous system responses shaped by past trauma — and why we over-explain, apologize, and seek permission for our own boundaries.
She reframes saying no not as rejection, but as self-trust and self-care. With practical phrases and a weekly challenge, Emily encourages listeners to pause before responding, sit with discomfort, and stop abandoning themselves to keep others comfortable.
A deeply affirming…
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