Being human means facing challenges and often feeling pressured to keep up, making it all too easy to feel disconnected from our true nature. We get caught up in the demands of daily life, losing touch with our essence, the inner peace and clarity within. Here is the beautiful truth: within each of us, yes, even if it's blocked, lies a powerful healer, your core Self. This expansive, loving, and grounded energy is crucial to our emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The Role of IFS, Parts Work, and Transpersonal Psychology in Healing
In therapeutic models like Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, and Parts Work, we recognize that our minds comprise different parts. Each part has its own perspectives, needs, and emotions. Some parts of us carry the wounds of the past, while other parts have adopted protective roles to help us cope with life's challenges. While these parts often have good intentions, they can sometimes overwhelm us, leading to anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional distress.
However, IFS teaches that beneath all these parts is the Self, our core being, that is calm, centered, and full of wisdom. When we connect with this Self, we become the compassionate leader of our internal system, allowing healing to take place within us. Transpersonal psychology complements this by looking at our connection to something greater than ourselves—whether through spirituality, nature, or the collective consciousness. It reminds us that we are more than just our individual stories or struggles; we are part of a greater whole, capable of profound transformation.
A Practice to Awaken the Inner Healer
If you're feeling off-balance, dissociated, or disconnected, you are not alone, but there is a way back home to the Self. Know that you can practice, again and again, gently guiding yourself back to your wholeness by intentionally reconnecting with this healing energy. It doesn't require a major lifestyle overhaul; instead, just an intention and willingness to take a few mindful moments throughout your day.
Here's a quick and simple practice you can try right now to reconnect with your true Self. You don't need special tools or an extended period of time, just a quiet space and a few deep breaths.
🌿 Pause & Breathe
Find a peaceful spot where you won't be interrupted. Close your eyes and take three deep breaths, inhaling deeply into your belly, solar plexus, and heart. With each breath, allow yourself to feel more grounded and present. And with each exhale allow yourself to release tension from the body and mind. This practice helps to create space for the Self-energy to emerge.
🌿 Set an Intention
Silently affirm, "I connect with my inner healer, my soulful Self." Let this intention gently guide your awareness inward, inviting you to take the lead. This practice provides a safer space for your inner parts to step back, relax, and trust the process.
🌿 Notice the Parts Within You
As you sit with yourself, gently scan your body and emotions. Are there any sensations, feelings, or voices coming forward? You may notice parts of you that feel anxious, sad, or protective. Instead of pushing these parts away, welcome them. Imagine saying to them, "I see you. I understand you have something important to share."
This practice is where Parts Work begins. Each part that arises has a message or emotion that it carries. Your job isn't fixing or changing these parts but simply acknowledging and listening to them. Let the Self, your compassionate leader, offer loving support and acceptance.
🌿 Embrace Acceptance & Love
Whatever arises, whether it's fear, anger, or sadness, approach it with curiosity and compassion. You may even want to say to the part, "It's okay to feel this way. I'm here for you." This unconditional acceptance can help soothe your inner world, allowing your parts to feel heard and supported.
🌿 Visualize Your Inner Light
As you breathe, visualize a warm light expanding within and around you, starting from your heart and radiating outward. This light represents your Self-energy, the healer within who holds peace, radiance, and the ability to bring balance to your internal system. As the light expands, imagine it embracing all your parts, creating a sense of wholeness and unity within you.
🌿 Stay Present
The longer you stay present with the Self within, the more you strengthen your connection. Remember that you are worthy and capable of deep healing. If a particular part feels overwhelming, take a break and come back to it later, trusting that you are building resilience with every practice.
Practical Tips to Deepen Your Connection with Your Inner Healer
Be Curious About Your Parts: As you go about your day, notice when certain emotions or thoughts arise. Are they familiar? Can you identify which part of you might be speaking? Curiosity, without judgment, is vital to understanding your internal landscape.
Use breath as a Bridge: Take a few deep breaths in moments of stress to reconnect with the Self within. Your breath is a powerful tool that can quickly bring you back into alignment.
Journal Your Inner Dialogue: Writing down your thoughts can help you tune into the different parts of yourself. Try journaling as if you are speaking to your parts—asking them how they feel and what they need. Then, let the Self within respond with compassion.
Seek Support from an Skilled Therapist: If you're new to parts work or feel overwhelmed by emotions, working with an therapist can provide a safe space to explore and heal.
Practice Regular Check-ins: Pause to check in with yourself throughout your day. Are you feeling calm, or is a part of you triggered? These small moments of awareness help maintain a strong connection with yourself.
Why This Matters
When we take the time to connect with our inner world, we invite collaboration and alignment into our lives. This mindful practice can help you rediscover the power of self-compassion and connection. Over time, you'll navigate challenges with resilience and grace, knowing that your inner healer is always present, ready to support you.
By cultivating this connection, you're nurturing a relationship with the wisest and most loving you. Doing so empowers you to heal, grow, and move through life with greater intention.
Ready to Begin?
If you're inspired, you can download a simple practice in a beautiful handout form that can be taken with you or shared with others.
With love, Aglow
Stacy Ruse, LPC, RYT, IFSI-ACC, & Evergreen EMDR-CC
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AGLOW is a global hub for healing and transformation, where I guide therapists and individuals on their journey to embody their truest Self. Through EMDR, IFS, transpersonal therapies, and Aglow Yoga, I offer powerful courses, consultations, and resources that foster deep healing and resilience.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Yoga Teacher, Evergreen & IFS-Institute Consultant, and forever student of consciousness, I integrate mind-body-spirit practices that empower you and your clients to unlock the unwavering strength and love within.
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