Twin Flames Union Update! 2025-2026

 

11 Signs You’re In The Twin Flame "Runner & Chaser" Phase

In Twin Flame communities, it’s often discussed that many couples experience a phase referred to as the "Twin Flame Runner & Chaser Phase."

(Although I personally feel that the terms "Runner" and "Chaser" carry somewhat negative connotations, implying judgment or imbalance, I’ll continue using the term here for clarity, as it is widely recognized within the Twin Flame community. If you feel these labels are damaging or if you have a different perspective, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. If there’s significant feedback, I may write more on this topic to explore other views of the terminology.)

The "Runner & Chaser" phase is often one of the most emotionally and spiritually challenging stages in the Twin Flame journey. It’s a time when karmic patterns and past wounds come to the surface, often triggering temporary separations. However, this phase, despite its intensity, is an essential part of the Twin Flame experience. It brings opportunities for tremendous spiritual growth, deeper self-awareness, and wisdom, which ultimately guide the Twin Flames toward union. This period is difficult, yet transformative, as both partners must confront and work through their personal fears, traumas, and insecurities.

Below, I’ve outlined 11 signs that you and your Twin Flame may be in the "Runner/Chaser" phase. Keep in mind that every Twin Flame journey is unique, so while these signs can be common, they may not apply to every couple in the same way.

1 - You and Your Twin Flame Are Currently Separated or Experiencing a Breakup…

It is common for Twin Flames to go through a separation or breakup, particularly early in the relationship. In fact, this often happens soon after the initial intense connection when both individuals may feel overwhelmed by the intensity of their bond. It can be due to unresolved karmic issues, childhood wounds, or patterns from past relationships that have not yet been healed. These issues often trigger misunderstandings, arguments, or fears about the relationship, causing one partner to pull away or even end the relationship.

A breakup or separation, while painful, doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the connection—it’s often a period of growth for both individuals. This time apart can give both people the opportunity to work on their own personal healing, leading them to eventually return to the relationship with more clarity and a deeper understanding of themselves and each other.

2 - Your Twin Flame Relationship Hasn’t Become Romantic Yet…

If the connection feels like it’s taking an unusually long time to progress to a romantic level, it could be an indication of the "Runner/Chaser" phase. In these early stages, even though both individuals may feel a deep, undeniable pull towards each other, one or both may hesitate or resist taking the next step toward full union. The connection is still forming and evolving, and this period of hesitation or delay is part of the journey.

The "Chaser" may feel frustrated by the lack of forward momentum, while the "Runner" may retreat out of fear or confusion. These early moments of uncertainty can set the stage for future growth, allowing both individuals to understand what they truly want, what they fear, and what needs to be healed before they can move forward together.

3 - One or Both of You Feel the Need for Space…

It’s completely normal for either partner to feel the need for some emotional or physical space during the course of a Twin Flame relationship. When the intensity of the connection becomes overwhelming, one or both partners may retreat to process emotions or reevaluate their feelings. If one Twin Flame asks for space, it’s crucial to honor that request. For the "Runner," this space may be necessary to work through their fears or doubts about the relationship. For the "Chaser," giving the space is equally important to avoid pushing the other person away.

This "space" is often misunderstood as a sign that the relationship is in trouble, but it’s actually a necessary part of the healing process. In fact, it allows both individuals the room to reflect, recharge, and grow. Both Twins need time to understand themselves and their feelings fully before they can come together again in a more balanced way.

4 - You or Your Twin Flame Limit or Stop Contact…

During this phase, it’s possible for one or both Twin Flames to limit or even completely stop contact. While this can feel painful and confusing, especially for the "Chaser," it’s often not a reflection of the relationship itself but rather a personal need for space to work through emotional blocks or external issues that are affecting the connection.

The "Runner" may withdraw for reasons unrelated to the relationship, such as career stress, family issues, or the need to focus on personal healing. For the "Chaser," this can feel like rejection, but it’s essential to remember that it’s not a reflection of their worth or the potential for union. Instead, it’s a signal that one partner needs time to focus on their own life and healing before they can truly return to the relationship.

5 - One or Both of You Are Emotionally Distant…

Emotional distance can be one of the most noticeable signs of the "Runner/Chaser" phase. During this time, one or both individuals may begin to emotionally withdraw, build walls, or shut down. The intensity of the Twin Flame connection can feel overwhelming, and when emotions become too raw or unmanageable, one partner may begin to block themselves off emotionally to avoid facing their vulnerability or fears.

This emotional distance is often a protective mechanism—either the "Runner" is afraid of being hurt or overwhelmed by the intensity of the connection, or the "Chaser" is reacting to the perceived rejection or emotional absence of their Twin Flame. Working through these emotional blocks is crucial for both parties to progress on their journey. It’s important for both to acknowledge and confront the underlying fears or insecurities that are causing the emotional shutdowns. Once these walls begin to come down, it can allow for greater openness, trust, and intimacy in the relationship.

6 - You’re Experiencing a Twin Flame Karmic Cycle…

Karma plays a crucial role in the Twin Flame relationship, especially during the "Runner/Chaser" phase. Unresolved karma, lingering past cycles, and unfinished business—often from previous lifetimes—can resurface and cause one Twin Flame to pull away from the connection. These karmic cycles are a necessary part of the journey and must be faced and worked through before the Twins can progress toward union.

7 - You or Your Twin Flame Feel Compelled to Be Dishonest…

While honesty is essential in a Twin Flame connection, it’s not uncommon for one or both partners to fall into dishonesty or concealment, even if their intentions are not malicious. These lies, even if small, can create significant issues and misunderstandings between the two. In the midst of the "Runner/Chaser" phase, where emotions can be intense and overwhelming, miscommunication is easy, and even the best-intentioned honesty can get lost in translation.

The Twin Flame journey is often filled with lessons on truth and authenticity. Being as open and truthful as possible with your Twin Flame can ease the difficulties of this phase, helping both partners grow in trust and understanding.

8 - You’re Torn Between Your Twin Flame and Someone Else…

This situation can be especially complicated. It may seem obvious to choose your Twin Flame, yet at the beginning of the journey, it can be difficult to clearly identify who your Twin Flame truly is. Sometimes, you might find yourself drawn to a Soulmate, someone who seems to connect with you on a deep level, perhaps even more easily than your Twin Flame.

Additionally, many Twin Flames encounter the challenge of already being in a relationship or even married when they meet their Twin Flame. This adds a layer of confusion, as they must make a significant decision about whether to act on their feelings or stay in their current relationship.

9 - You or Your Twin Flame Feel Overwhelmed by the Relationship…

It’s not uncommon for both Twin Flames to feel overwhelmed during this phase. The emotions and realizations that come when Twin Flames meet can be incredibly intense, sometimes feeling too complex or life-changing to process right away. Self-reflection, contemplation, and time apart can help you make sense of what’s happening.

During this time, triggering moments and lessons often spark spiritual awakenings, which can feel like a lot to handle. It’s a time of deep personal growth, but also one that requires patience, space, and understanding.

10 - You Have Doubts About Whether They Are Your Twin Flame…

Doubts can easily creep in, especially during the "Runner/Chaser" phase. When separation, misunderstandings, and lack of trust arise, questions about whether you’ve truly found your Twin Flame can become consuming. It’s common to experience a relationship that feels similar to a Twin Flame connection just before meeting your actual Twin Flame. This is sometimes referred to as encountering a “False Twin Flame.”

Even after meeting your true Twin Flame, doubts may still surface, causing moments of running or chasing. Questions like “Did I get this wrong?” or “Are we meant to be together?” are normal. In these moments, meditation and reflection can be powerful tools to explore these doubts and find clarity.

11 - You Feel Like You Have to Initiate Everything…

If it feels like you are the one constantly initiating conversations, intimacy, or activities, this might indicate that you’re in the "Runner/Chaser" phase. Your Twin Flame may be withdrawing emotionally from the connection, feeling the need for space to reflect on the relationship.

During this time, it’s important to respect their need for space. Allow them the time they need to process, while you focus on your own personal growth and goals. Remember, it’s unfair to carry the full weight of the relationship on your own. This may simply be a sign that your Twin Flame has more spiritual growth or maturity to undergo before they can fully re-engage in the relationship.