The Turtle Theory~Out of the Shell

  It is understood that turtles, like crustaceans, have durable shells to protect their soft, vulnerable bodies and vital organs, including their head. Turtles are particularly susceptible to predators because they move so slowly. Unlike other reptiles (lizards, snakes, etc.), turtles are often unable outrun their pursuer in order to escape potential attack. Instead, they withdraw into themselves by retreating to the safely of their shell.

Human beings adapt in our own ways to potential sources of threat or danger. Some of us even develop a shell, so to speak, to protect the softer or more vulnerable aspects of ourselves. Human “shells” can come in the form of a tough exterior, heightened defenses, tendency to withdraw, fear of commitment, and other ways we devise in an effort to shield ourselves from pain or injury. However, in doing so, we may also inhibit our ability to truly experience joy, love, empathy and connection.

Unlike a turtle with its limited faculties, we as humans are capable of developing other strengths and skills so as to not only protect ourselves from threat, but also to promote vitality, growth, and livelihood. If we spend our resources trying to figure out a way to keep from being hurt, we simply reinforce the shell of protection, keeping everything out. The shell is a primitive defense. Instead, if we were to refocus our energies on cultivating inner strengths and resources we foster more resiliency and authentic fortitude, ultimately helping us to feel more secure longterm.

Take into consideration how we strengthen our bodies physically. Medical doctors, physical therapists, and fitness experts agree and repeatedly publish articles on the importance of developing a strong body core to prevent and even treat a variety of injuries. Without the stability of a strong core, we may put undue impact on our skeletal system or overcompensate by using other less capable muscle groups, ultimately putting us at greater risk for damaging our bones or muscles.

For humans the “shell” is not as foolproof as it may be for the turtle. Frequently, what makes us feel most vulnerable is not that we will be hurt, but rather that we might not be able to rebound or recover. Strengthening ourselves from within allows us to soften our exterior, letting our guard down to present with a more approachable, open and vulnerable stance with the confidence that we are capable to access all we need to keep ourselves safe. Conversely, those who feel more susceptible to injury, more sensitive to life’s abrasions, and less certain in their ability to recover, will feel the need to retreat into their shell and shield themselves from the perception of potential threat.

If we simply teach ourselves how to withdraw as a form of protection, we deprive ourselves of the opportunity to grow, expand, experience the variety of life, and prevent ourselves from becoming stronger within. By learning how to strengthen our sense of who we are, increase our understanding for others, and cultivate the trust and confidence that we are resilient beings, we develop a steadfast core that naturally guards against injury but also opens us up to new abilities and possibilities.