We all want to feel seen, heard, and understood—but how often do we actually offer that to ourselves or others?
This episode explores the deep emotional difference between validation and invalidation. You’ll learn how simple, kind words like “It makes sense you feel that way” can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and create true connection. In contrast, phrases like “You’re overreacting” or “You shouldn’t feel that way” can lead to shame, anxiety, and emotional disconnection.
The episode also touches on self-compassion versus self-judgment—reminding us that we can hold space for our own emotions without criticism. Scientific insights show how emotional validation regulates the nervous system, improves vagal tone, and strengthens emotional resilience. From a yogic lens, it connects to ahimsa (non-harming), especially in how we treat ourselves and others emotionally.
Gentle breathing practices and reflection questions are offered to help you anchor these teachings in your body. Whether in relationships or in your own self-talk, this episode is a powerful reminder: validation doesn’t require agreement—just presence.
🧠 A soothing and practical listen for anyone seeking deeper emotional connection.
—-------—-------—-
Episode Chapters:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:54 What Is Validation vs. Invalidation
00:06:31 The Science Behind Validation
00:10:29 Long-Term Effects of Invalidation
00:10:35 Yogic Perspective: Ahimsa & Holding Space
00:13:58 Self-Compassion vs. Self-Judgment
00:20:12 Emotional Practice & Vagal Tone
00:22:16 Integration: Reflective Questions
00:24:42 Closing Meditation
—-------—-------—-
📚 Mentions & Resources:
Concept of Ahimsa (Yogic principle of non-harming)
Michael Henri’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelyoga.pt/
Going Pro Yoga’s Instagram: https://www.instagram/com/goingproyoga/
—-------—-------—-
Tags: emotional validation, self-compassion, emotional intelligence, nervous system, relationships, holding space, ahimsa, breathwork, healing communication, self-judgment, self-regulation, vagus nerve, trauma-informed yoga, inner kindness
Popular Podcasts
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!