Our emotions serve as an indicator to help us acknowledge when something feels good or doesn't feel right, providing a catalyst for change. Yet, many of us can feel stuck, shame, not knowing the path to move forward, or choosing to ignore these indications entirely.

It's crucial to feel what you feel and allow it to pass through you to become more buoyant. Through my healing journey, this was my biggest challenge. I hated it; I would cry, shout, and scream, showing me how afraid my inner child was to feel again. I believe this is true for many of us who were criticised in childhood for feeling these things, typically due to our parent figures' inability to sit with discomfort or process this in a healthy way – but that's a post for another time.

I had to keep pushing through, starting with affirmations in the mirror – try for yourself:

"[Name], I love you.

[Name], I approve of you.

[Name], I accept you, just the way you are right now."

Through my tears, anger, or pain – no matter what was coming up for me – I would repeat these until I rode the wave of emotion and felt soothed again. Believe me, it wasn't easy, but through time and practice, it was worth it. I could self-regulate again. I wasn't judging myself but instead calming the inner child within, comforting her, and creating that safe space that I had once lost. If you identify with this, I highly recommend trying this practice every day for 5 minutes in front of the mirror. It might feel weird at first, but hey – what doesn't when you start something new or have to face yourself?

Secondly, the trick was to not become the emotion but to be the observer. This didn't mean tears wouldn't come, but when they did, I had to practice being a witness to them – feeling and observing. It might be challenging, but once I got it, it helped the emotion pass even quicker! Again, the key is not to judge yourself while doing it. It takes time and practice, so be gentle with yourself, not your biggest bully. It might sound even stranger than the above, so I have linked a great YouTube video to help you practise this too.

Remember, the journey to self-acceptance takes time and practice. Each step you take brings you closer to creating a safe and positive space within yourself. Share your experiences or ask questions – your journey is unique, and support is here.

With love,

Kiren