In episode 69 of the Art of We podcast, hosts Krista and Dr. Will Van Derveer focus on the critical distinctions between codependency and interdependency. The conversation highlights how codependency often stems from good intentions but leads to disempowerment and stuckness within relationships, especially when one partner enables the other.

By contrast, interdependency is presented as a healthier model that fosters mutual responsibility, freedom, and empowerment, supporting a more evolved partnership. Through personal anecdotes and theoretical insights, the hosts explore how individuals can inadvertently fall into patterns of distorted masculine and feminine energies, which contribute to the cycle of codependency. 

In this episode the host’s share their experience with both codependency and interdependency, and how to navigate challenging patterns that often manifest as a fear of engulfment or abandonment. The dialogue encourages listeners to reflect on their own relationships, identifying areas where they might be leaning too heavily towards codependency and exploring ways to cultivate a more interdependent, mutually responsible, balanced and fulfilling partnership.

Main Topics Covered:

• Distinction Between Codependency and Interdependency in intimate relationships
• Impact of Distorted Masculine and Feminine Energies and the importance of recognizing and addressing these patterns.
• Personal Growth and Self-Awareness to identify and shift towards healthier relational dynamics.
• Strategies for Cultivating Interdependency and balancing individual needs with the health of the relationship.
• Exploring Personal and Shared Values in Relationships to enhance relational harmony and fulfillment.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform. 

Resources Mentioned: 

• The Art Of We - Our Top 10 Relationship Agreements 
• Codependent No More Book - Melody Beattie
• Bruce Tift, MA, LMFT - Distorted Masculine and Feminine Energies
• Stan Tatkin - Attachment Styles
• The Art Of We E67: Relationship Values Vs Agreements

Get in Touch: 

• The Art Of We Website
• The Art of We Instagram 
• Integrative Psychiatry Institute: Integrative Mental Wellness & Psychedelic Therapy Training

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