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What makes one of the most popular behavioral trends of late is the practice of going back to who we were as children, before we were shaped by life experiences—a state of purity, joy, and witness-consciousness.
“The whole purpose of spiritual evolution is to return to one’s true nature which is like a child.” —Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
The inner child represents our emotional core, shaped by early experiences, joys, fears, and unresolved wounds from childhood. Often, as we grow this part of our memory tends to carry unresolved feelings of neglect, abandonment, abuse, rejection, or misunderstanding. By acknowledging and addressing the inner child with unmet needs, we sit with this part of our past to support and nurture the roots of our emotional well-being. Talking to this part of ourselves helps heal past wounds, release old patterns, and foster a sense of safety and self-worth.
Initially, it may look like an exercise in make-believe, but once you get to the deeper end, you find relief, joy, and a sense of lightness.
As you practice this more often, you will find impressions and patterns from your childhood that were holding you back in life are no longer able to control you. Connecting with your inner child is a gentle and transformative process. With patience and practice, it can lead to profound healing and self-awareness.
Fear of confronting old wounds can hold you back but recognize the resistance and don’t be hard on yourself. Acknowledge that healing takes time and a lot of courage. Start with the right mindset and incorporate the following pointers to help the exercise become easier.Â
Addressing childhood hurts helps release feelings of inadequacy and shame, creating space for self-acceptance. By being kind to your inner child, you learn to speak to yourself with love and respect, cultivating a positive inner dialogue. Validating your inner child’s emotions reinforces the belief that your feelings and needs are important.
Healing past traumas empowers you to face current challenges with greater confidence and calmness, enhancing emotional resilience. This process also enables you to embrace your true self, free from external judgments and past limitations.
Gurudev teaches that the core of our existence is bliss, positivity, and joy, though it may be surrounded by negative ions. He emphasizes that we can swiftly overcome the negative emotions and impressions we’ve accumulated over the years through the power of breath. As he puts it, “Just because a room has been dark for many years doesn’t mean it will take just as long to light up. All you need to do is light a lamp, and the darkness disappears.”
Engaging with your inner child is not merely a therapeutic practice but an ongoing journey of self-discovery and healing. In a world where much of our life is lived in our minds, this connection lays the groundwork for self-love and positive self-talk, fundamentally transforming the quality of your life.
