Taking It All In: The Art of Receiving Without Shame or Obligation
#34

Taking It All In: The Art of Receiving Without Shame or Obligation

Why is it so hard to simply take it in—a compliment, a gift, a moment of care, or even a deep breath? In this episode of The Circle Podcast, Eric and Tim unpack the cultural, emotional, and personal blocks that make receiving feel vulnerable, awkward, or even shameful. Whether it’s feeling unworthy of love, fearing hidden strings, or being conditioned to always give and never rest, many men—especially queer men—struggle to let themselves receive without guilt or defensiveness.

Drawing from men’s work, embodiment practice, and real-life stories, they explore how receiving is not just a passive act—it’s a courageous, embodied practice. From reframing sexual dynamics and compliments to learning how to accept rest, nourishment, and reflection, this episode is a call to stop over-giving and start letting yourself be filled.

Topics in this episode:
  • Why many men equate giving with value and receiving with weakness
  • How cultural scripts and shame block us from receiving love and support
  • What it means to receive without obligation, guilt, or needing to “even the score”
  • The link between control, resistance, and the fear of vulnerability
  • Embodied practices to expand your capacity to receive
  • Why rest, intimacy, and stillness matter just as much as action
Perfect for givers feeling depleted, men exploring new dynamics in queer intimacy, or anyone learning to drop the armor and take in the goodness being offered.

Creators and Guests

Eric Bomyea
Host
Eric Bomyea
Eric Bomyea has a curiosity for life and a passion for personal growth. While his journey into men’s work and spirituality is relatively new, he has found a deep connection through attending Tim's embodiment circle for the past year. Eric is currently training in the Transpersonal Facilitation Program under the guidance of Amir Khalighi. Having been sober for almost two years, his path has been one of self-discovery and exploring new ways to show up authentically. He approaches men’s work with humility and an open heart, eager to dive deeper into the unknown alongside his friend and co-host, Tim
Timothy Bish
Host
Timothy Bish
Timothy Bish has been a dedicated student of personal growth and spirituality for as long as he can remember. His journey began in New York City at the Jivamukti Yoga School, where he became an Advanced Certified Jivamukti Yoga Teacher. This practice ignited his passion for physical and subtle body wellness, leading him to explore Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. During the pandemic, Tim discovered Men’s Work and completed the Men’s Wisdom Work coach training program in 2020. He then met his current teacher, Amir Khalighi, with Embodied Masculine, and completed the Men's Wisdom Initiation Program, as well as Levels 1 and 2 of the Transpersonal Facilitation Training. Tim now serves as the lead assistant for that program alongside Amir. In addition to coaching and facilitating, Tim is the founder of the Men’s Embodiment Circle in Provincetown, where he continues to help men on their journey of personal and spiritual growth