Ever feel like you just can’t shake off a past relationship? You’ve done all the “right” things—blocked their number, deleted the photos, maybe even moved to a new city—but something still feels… off. Like there’s an invisible thread tying you to them, even though you know it’s over. What you’re experiencing might be a soul tie.
Soul ties are deep, often spiritual connections that form between two people through intense emotional, physical, or even traumatic experiences. They can leave you feeling stuck, drained, or unable to fully move on. The good news? You can break them. Let’s talk about how.
What Are Soul Ties, Anyway?
Soul ties are like invisible threads that connect you to someone else on a deep, often spiritual level. Think of them as energetic bonds that form through shared experiences, emotions, or even physical intimacy. They’re not inherently bad—in fact, healthy soul ties can exist in loving, supportive relationships. These ties can make you feel seen, understood, and deeply connected to someone who truly values and uplifts you.
However, when a relationship becomes toxic, one-sided, or emotionally draining, those same ties can turn into emotional handcuffs. Instead of feeling connected, you feel trapped. Instead of feeling supported, you feel stuck. You might find yourself tethered to someone who no longer belongs in your life, unable to fully let go or move forward.
Soul ties often form through:
- Emotional connections: Deep bonding, shared trauma, or codependency.
- Physical intimacy: Sexual relationships can create powerful ties, even if the emotional connection isn’t strong.
- Spiritual bonds: Shared beliefs, rituals, or experiences that feel sacred or profound.
The tricky part? Those emotional ties can stick around way longer than the relationship itself. And before you know it, you’re caught up in the past—for weeks, months, or even years. It’s tough to move on when you’re still holding onto something that’s already gone.
How Do You Know You Have A Toxic Soul Tie?
Here are some signs that you might be dealing with an unhealthy soul tie:
- You can’t stop thinking about the person, even if you don’t want to be with them anymore.
- You feel responsible for their happiness or guilty for “abandoning” them.
- You crave their approval or validation, even when you know it’s not healthy.
- You feel physically or emotionally drained after interacting with them.
- You struggle to set boundaries or say no, even when it costs you your peace.
- You feel like you’re not you without them.
If any of this is hitting close to home, it’s probably a sign to start making some changes.
How To Break Soul Ties (And Reclaim Your Power)
Breaking soul ties isn’t about hating the other person or pretending the relationship never happened. It’s about releasing the hold they have on you so you can move forward. Here’s how to start:
1. Acknowledge The Tie
The first step to breaking soul ties is admitting that the connection exists. Take an honest look at the relationship and ask yourself: Is this still serving me? If the answer is no, it’s time to let go.
2. Cut Off Contact
This one’s tough but necessary. Stop texting, calling, or checking their social media. If they reach out, resist the urge to respond. Out of sight, out of mind—it really works.
3. Forgive (Yourself And Them)
Holding onto resentment or guilt only strengthens the tie. Forgiveness isn’t about excusing their behavior; it’s about freeing yourself from the weight of the past. Say it out loud: I forgive you, and I forgive myself.
4. Renounce The Tie
If you’re spiritual, this step can be powerful. Verbally declare that you’re breaking the tie. For example: I renounce the unhealthy soul tie between me and [name]. I release them and reclaim my energy.
5. Rebuild Your Identity
Soul ties can make you feel like you’ve lost yourself. Reconnect with who you are outside of the relationship. What do you love? What makes you feel alive? Spend time rediscovering your passions, values, and goals.
6. Seek Spiritual Support
Prayer, meditation, or journaling can help you process your emotions and find closure. If you’re religious, ask for divine guidance in breaking the tie and healing your spirit.
7. Set Boundaries For The Future
Once you’ve broken the tie, protect your energy moving forward. Be mindful of who you let into your life and how deeply you connect with them. Healthy boundaries are your best defense against future toxic ties.
What To Expect After Breaking A Soul Tie
Breaking a soul tie isn’t an overnight process—it’s a journey, and it takes time and effort. And just like any journey, there are going to be highs and lows along the way. At first, you might feel a sense of loss or emptiness, almost like you’ve left a piece of yourself behind. That’s completely normal. After all, you’re letting go of something that once felt familiar, even if it wasn’t healthy.
But here’s the thing: that emptiness isn’t a void—it’s space. Space for something new, something better, to grow. And as you heal, you’ll start to notice subtle but powerful shifts in your life:
- A newfound sense of freedom and peace.
- More energy and focus for your own life.
- Healthier, more balanced relationships.
- A stronger connection to yourself and your purpose.
You’ve Got This
Breaking a soul tie isn’t easy, but it’s so worth it. You deserve to live a life that’s free from the weight of the past. Take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to lean on your faith, your community, or a therapist for support.
Remember, you’re not just breaking a tie—you’re reclaiming your power. And that’s something to celebrate.
