I Want to Connect

Discover the importance of the nervous system in healthy attachment and relationships.

From our earliest moments to old age, quality of life revolves around relationships. But while the human brain craves intimacy, many struggle with building deeper bonds. All too often, childhood experiences can pave the way for relationships that are vulnerable to conflict, instability, and miscommunication. This added stress can manifest as anxiety and depression, gut problems, and a weakened immune system. Living a connected life isn’t just pivotal for our emotional well-being it’s essential for our physical health.

In I Want to Connect, a follow-up to the popular The Attachment Theory Workbook, expert relationship therapist Annie Chen explores how the state of our nervous system either primes us for resilience and connection or pushes us toward defense and shutdown. Recognizing that our well-being depends on supportive relationships of all kinds, this book can help you tune your brain and body for greater intimacy, communication, and depth of connection.

What you'll find inside:

• Nervous system insights - Discover from polyvagal theory how your nervous system shapes your relationships.
• Practical exercises - Engage with 37 carefully designed exercises to understand yourself and others better.
• Co-regulation skills - Learn to nurture safety and connection with those around you.
• Emotional intelligence - Develop skills to set clear boundaries, recognize your emotions, and express your desires effectively.
• Tools for trauma - Recognize and manage trauma responses to free yourself for deeper connections.

I Want to Connect equips you with the essential tools to cultivate stronger bonds.