02/10/2026
Hi, I’m Dana Atwood, a board-certified hypnotist based in Portland, Oregon. If you’ve ever started to question a group, belief, or system and then suddenly felt a pull to return, know this, that feeling doesn’t mean you were mistaken, or that the harm wasn’t real. It just means your nervous system is reaching for what’s familiar, even when that familiarity involved pressure or self-denial. Our bodies often lean toward familiar discomfort rather than the unknown, so stepping into something different, even if it’s positive, can feel unsettling at first. Thoughts like “maybe I was exaggerating” or “things seemed easier before” are your nervous system seeking comfort, not a sign you’re headed the wrong way. The urge to go back can be strongest right after you gain new clarity. Once you see things for what they are, it’s hard to forget, and that can feel uneasy. Remember, returning may offer certainty, but it can also mean sacrificing your voice. If you notice this urge, ask yourself: what part of me needs reassurance right now? Give yourself care through rest, grounding, meditation, journaling, or gentle affirmation, instead of returning to something that asked you to be silent. You’re not slipping backward, you’re simply learning a new way of being. You are enough, just as you are.
**Disclaimer:** This video is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need immediate support, please reach out to a qualified professional or contact the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) or text 988 for 24/7 support.
