One duality that I think might relate to gender for me (although not completely) is my slightly toxic view of sensitivity as being the opposite of strength. This does not apply when I consider others, however it still plays a part in how I view and judge myself. I think this "sensitive=weak, stoic=strong" lense stems from post-war Finnish generations where repression of emotions was a tool to survive. It still lingers inside me like a ghost, cloaked in internalised toxic masculinity. I have been thinking about this a lot lately, as I am going back to therapy after yet another inflammatory flare-up in my body.
Maybe that's another duality that I am still working to understand and accept: able vs unable (or abled-disabled). And of course we have the (in western society established) mind-body duality, although I am not sure that that one actually exists...
Thanks for sharing these interesting examples! I can relate to them a lot, I have also struggled with learning to see sensitivity, and vulnerability as strength. And to be gentle with my body still doesn't come naturally but is something I have to actively remind myself to do. That old mind-body duality is an interesting one for sure. I think it deserves its own piece of writing.. Wishing you deep healing, in the totality of it all.. mind body soul. ❤️
Beautiful text! Language is truly interesting!
One duality that I think might relate to gender for me (although not completely) is my slightly toxic view of sensitivity as being the opposite of strength. This does not apply when I consider others, however it still plays a part in how I view and judge myself. I think this "sensitive=weak, stoic=strong" lense stems from post-war Finnish generations where repression of emotions was a tool to survive. It still lingers inside me like a ghost, cloaked in internalised toxic masculinity. I have been thinking about this a lot lately, as I am going back to therapy after yet another inflammatory flare-up in my body.
Maybe that's another duality that I am still working to understand and accept: able vs unable (or abled-disabled). And of course we have the (in western society established) mind-body duality, although I am not sure that that one actually exists...
Thanks for sharing these interesting examples! I can relate to them a lot, I have also struggled with learning to see sensitivity, and vulnerability as strength. And to be gentle with my body still doesn't come naturally but is something I have to actively remind myself to do. That old mind-body duality is an interesting one for sure. I think it deserves its own piece of writing.. Wishing you deep healing, in the totality of it all.. mind body soul. ❤️