i was asked to explain what inner child work looks like for me 💗 so heres a little explanation and run down ✨
what is inner child work?
inner child work is a form of shadow work in which you acknowledge your “inner child” (the younger version of yourself), and work through the traumas you accumulated in your childhood. based on the conditioning and traumas we picked up as children, we tend to act out of those cycles, even if they are harmful.
why is inner child work important?
inner child work is very important because it helps us release those fears and traumas. acknowledging and honoring your inner child helps provide you with a sense of peace within your current self. shadow work in all forms are crucial to spiritual development, and inner child work is a branch off that tree.
how do you do inner child work?
the practice can look different for everyone, but i will provide some examples on what it looks like for me:
i will think of a traumatic/hurtful childhood memory, and imagine my current self standing in front of my younger self. i tell her all the things i wish i knew/i wish i had heard in that moment. telling her that she is loved, she is cared for, she doesn’t have to change herself to receive attention, she is worthy, she is valued, etc. this practice always brings me to tears, as i am letting go of those traumas and hurts
i envision myself holding my younger self, allowing her to feel safe and loved within my arms.
i tell my younger self that i am proud of her and show her who she has the potential to become.
i indulge in the “childish” things i was unable to do when i was younger. for example, expressing myself through yelling and being loud, putting myself first, taking time to take care of myself, resting, dancing, being silly, etc
there are other resources you can find online, but this is what my practice has turned into as it suits me 💗 i hope this helps, best of luck 💗
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