04:15

Learning Series: Gaslighting 101

by Heidi Fischer

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4.7
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talks
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Meditation
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A 4-minute lesson on the topic of gaslighting. Here you will find a brief outline on the origins of this word, what it is and what it might sound like. Additionally, we discuss actions you can take against gaslighting and what that may sound like as well. There is gentle music to open and close this lesson. Intro/Outro Music by Kevin MacLeod: "Easy Lemon".

GaslightingBoundariesToxic RelationshipsSelf ValidationCommunicationEducationMental HealthGaslighting AwarenessRelationship Boundaries

Transcript

Music Gaslighting 101 You may have heard of the term gaslighting in recent years.

It's become a more well-known topic.

But we're going to discuss it again today just in case for those who have not heard of it or not are aware of what it exactly means.

So gaslighting is a way to manipulate someone by psychological means into questioning their own sanity.

The term actually originated from a British play called Gaslight that was made in 1938 but it was become more popular in 1940 and 1944 when there was two different film adaptations.

So that's where that term comes from.

Gaslighting can be seen in a variety of relationships such as family,

In romantic,

Workplace,

Political,

And friendships.

So what is gaslighting?

What does it look like?

So it can be somebody who tells blatant lies,

Someone who will deny having said something even if there's proof.

There will be claims that the other person is quotes crazy.

The person may attack someone's identity,

They'll be relentless,

They'll project who they are onto the other person.

They'll have actions that do not match their words.

They can give confusing positive reinforcement and it's common for them to manipulate others against you.

These are some phrases that might sound familiar if you're familiar with a person who gaslights.

So they might sound like this,

I never said that.

Can't you take a joke?

Why are you always making things up?

It's not like I promised you anything.

Why are you so obsessed with this?

I can't believe you actually thought I'd do that.

I thought you were ignoring me.

How many times do I have to explain this?

You are so lucky that I keep you around.

If you're connected with somebody who is gaslighting,

These are some of the actions that you can take.

In reality,

The best course of action might be to just exit the relationship.

But of course there's going to be situations where that's not possible.

So if so,

Then it's necessary to keep clear,

Firm boundaries.

It's important to learn to trust your own feelings and memory.

You do know what was said or done and how it felt and your experience is reality.

Do not engage in battles over meaning and don't allow compliments to ingratiate you.

And it's a good idea to foster relationships that have no connection to this individual.

Here's some phrases that you could try if you're dealing with this.

I'm well aware of what was said and how it felt.

I need you to put that in writing.

I'm not going to argue about this.

Intentions and impact are not the same thing.

I will not apologize for your behavior.

My time is for people who treat me well.

Only speak to me about necessary topics.

It doesn't matter if you're joking,

It wasn't funny.

That behavior is unacceptable.

And that's a little bit of information on what gaslighting is.

I hope that was helpful.

Have a great day.

Meet your Teacher

Heidi FischerSaskatoon, SK, Canada

4.7 (115)

Recent Reviews

Alison

February 13, 2024

Thank you Heidi...a really useful set of responses to counteract being gaslit 🙏💜

Lisa

January 24, 2024

Thankyou . Thd was helpful . I am trying to let go of someone who turned blame on me and I feel like .. what am I in high school .. it’s drama deluxe . I had to put boundaries and she basically is telling stories about me. I’m so emotionally exhausted and trying to recover .. plus I am trying to heal with a RSv illness so .. I hope I can let go.. she kept texted mg me and I didn’t respond and then she said are you getting my messages???? I finally said I am not ready to talk about this I am still processing it. I need therapy over this ! It’s terrible ! I will keep breathing,meditating and praying 🙏 thanks 💫💛

STEVE

December 25, 2022

👍🏼 m a k e meditiaon on for g aslghtng abuse. me v *c tim of gas liting many y ear abuse. it would help - the words. Sory - I can’t ‘write right cuz of ab*se - no ‘v erbal cuz of tram a s. I c u tnks

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© 2026 Heidi Fischer. All rights reserved. All copyright in this work remains with the original creator. No part of this material may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

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