Bonus Episode - Rewriting Old Emotional Rules

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In today’s bonus episode of The Lemon Tree Coaching Podcast, Dr. Allison Sucamele offers a short, grounding reflection on something many of us don’t realize we’re still living by: old emotional rules.

These are the quiet, unspoken agreements we made early in life about what it takes to stay safe, loved, or accepted - rules like don’t be too much, stay useful, don’t need anyone, keep the peace, or feel later. From a psychological lens, these rules weren’t flaws. They were adaptations. Your nervous system learned them in response to real environments and real constraints, and they helped you survive.

But psychology also reminds us of something important: what once protected you can later imprison you.

In this gentle reflection, we explore how the brain and nervous system hold onto outdated instructions, why insight alone isn’t enough to create change, and how healing happens through safety, permission, and small corrective emotional experiences. Rewriting emotional rules isn’t about erasing the past - it’s about updating the operating system so it fits the life you’re building now.

This episode invites you to slow down, notice which rule might be running in the background, and experiment with offering yourself one small exception. Change doesn’t begin with force. It begins with permission. 🍋

Mental Health Resources (U.S.)

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for immediate emotional support
• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741
• SAMHSA National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for mental health and substance use support

If you are outside the U.S., please check local crisis resources in your country.

Brief Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational and reflective purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical care. Healing and nervous system work are deeply personal, and everyone’s experience is unique. If this episode brings up distress or overwhelming emotions, consider reaching out to a qualified mental health professional or trusted support.