What are the Ego Defenses - And How Do We Protect Ourselves from Ourselves

### 🌙Ego Defenses — How We Protect Ourselves from Ourselves 😶

We all use subtle psychological shields to keep discomfort away — denial 😶, humor 😅, rationalization 🧠, or withdrawal 🧍‍♂️.
They’re not “bad” — they’re ancient strategies of the mind trying to preserve balance ⚖️. But sometimes, those same defenses that once protected us quietly block truth, intimacy, and growth 💔➡️💫.

Tonight, we’ll explore ego defenses with gentle curiosity and self-compassion 🕊️ — noticing how they appear in everyday moments, relationships, and reflection.

💭 Possible prompts:
• Which defenses do you recognize most in yourself?
• When does a defense serve you — and when does it distance you from authenticity?
• How can awareness turn a wall into a window? 🌤️

Bring your insight, humor, and willingness to look inward 🌿.
🪞 Awareness is not judgment — it’s the beginning of freedom. ✨