Everyone possesses an inner kid. This inner child may be viewed as a clear portrayal of the young you, a patchwork of your growth stages, or a reflection of innocent fantasies and playfulness.
According to author and research psychologist Dr. Diana Raab, recognizing your inner kid might help you recall happier, more carefree times. “Reconnecting with the joys of childhood can be a good approach to deal with difficult circumstances,” says Diana.
Pain cannot be healed by hiding it. Instead, it typically manifests in your adult life as trouble taking care of yourself or difficulty in personal relationships. You can address some of these concerns by working to heal your inner child.
These eight suggestions are a wonderful place to start if you’re working on healing your inner child.
Acknowledge your inner child
Recognizing your inner child’s presence is the first step in starting the healing process. Anyone can connect with their inner child if they’re willing to explore this relationship, California-based therapist Kim Egel notes. You’ll have a harder time starting the mending process if you’re hesitant or opposed to the thought of looking back.
Try viewing inner child work as a process of self-discovery if the thought of opening up to your child self makes you feel a little odd or embarrassed.
Listen to what your inner child has to say
It’s crucial to pay attention to the emotions that emerge once you’ve allowed your inner child to come out. Kim explains that these emotions “frequently come out in situations that elicit powerful emotions, discomfort, or past traumas.”
Maybe you’ll notice :
angry about unmet needs
rejection or abandonment
insecurity
vulnerability
shame or guilt anxiety
If you can link these emotions to particular experiences from your past, you might find that similar circumstances in your adult life elicit the same emotions.
Engage in childlike activities
Even if adulthood comes with a lot of obligations, playfulness and relaxation are crucial aspects of mental wellness. Making time for pleasure and reconnecting with your playful side might help ease the pain of missing out on what you needed as a child if your upbringing was lacking in positive experiences.
It’s also crucial to take time for little joys like ice cream after a walk, playing games with your significant other or kids, and laughing with friends. Whatever you do, scheduling frequent moments of play and levity in your schedule can help you recapture the joyful feelings of your childhood.
Also see: How to maintain a healthy relationship with your boarding school child
