This can be hard to do when EIPs or EI parents start criticizing or accusing you. But if you stiffen up and become defensive, it is like squaring your chest to invite a blow. Instead, take a page from martial arts, where the ultimate skill is to know when to step aside and let your opponents’ energy carry them forward and off-balance. Figuratively, you turn sideways and watch their emotions flow past you (“I guess you’re pretty upset with me, Mom,” or “I know you think I’m making a mistake, Dad”).
