Since 2019, I have worked at the Healing and Justice Center (HJC), where I have been provided with numerous resources to support my healing and wellness journey in both my personal life and work environment, including education on regenerative conflict resolution. However, the real challenge lies in integrating these resources into my daily life. In this section, I want to share my perspective on this topic and how I navigate these challenges.
Healing the Inner Child
Our early experiences are foundational to who we become as adults. Both the positive moments and the challenges of our childhood deeply shape our emotional, psychological, and social health. Healing our inner child requires us to acknowledge and address past wounds—not with self-criticism or shame, but through kindness and empathy towards the child still residing within us. Healing is an ongoing, non-linear journey with no definitive endpoint.
Before having my son, I often reflected on this concept, which fueled many of my fears about parenthood. The realization that healing has no fixed end made me worry about failing somehow. However, I learned to let go of the notion of perfection.
Practical Applications and Challenges
These practices have profoundly impacted my life, offering balance and resilience amidst the chaos of parenting. I have established a routine that includes journaling, breathing exercises, visualization, meditation, and open communication with my partner. However, maintaining these activities can be quite challenging.
For instance, one night, my son woke up multiple times due to teething. We were up most of the night, trying to soothe him. The next day, I felt physically and emotionally drained. I had recently started incorporating 30-minute workouts into my routine to regain some sense of self-autonomy. Despite my exhaustion, I didn't want to skip my workout, but I was too tired to do it. This left me feeling disappointed, upset, and overwhelmed because I still had to attend to my son.
The Power of Pausing
When I woke up, I felt a rush of frustration, and my body tensed up. I told my husband to hold the baby for a couple of minutes, went back into the room, and sat in the bed giving myself some time to pause. I gave myself some grace, took a couple of deep breaths, and began to do a few stretches. Suddenly, my body felt at ease, and I recognized it was okay to skip the workout that day. By giving myself empathy, I was able to relax enough and enjoy my day. It only took a couple of minutes, but it made a world of difference.
The strategies that helped me navigate this process included journaling, breathing exercises, visualization, meditation, and open communication with my partner. Additionally, I discovered the transformative power of pausing—a simple yet profound action. Pausing before reacting, reflecting, resonating, or simply collecting oneself can significantly ease life's pressures, allowing me to approach challenges with a clearer head and a calmer spirit.
Collective Journey
This newsletter is not just about sharing insights but about inviting you to join in this collective journey of growth and healing. We are not alone, and together, we can foster a community of support and resilience. For further insights into your wellbeing, feel free to download helpful handouts available at our website. Check them out here: https://www.healingandjusticecenter.org/resource
Education and Learning
Parenting is an ongoing educational journey that involves continuously absorbing new information, whether from books, workshops, or advice from fellow parents. My involvement in the Healing and Justice Center's parenting programs has been incredibly beneficial. These classes have equipped me with tools to regulate my own emotions and better understand my child’s developmental processes during challenging times.
This knowledge has also shed light on my personal triggers and the patterns that have shaped my past relationships. Recognizing these patterns is crucial; it helps me address my childhood traumas, navigate triggering situations more effectively, and comprehend my child's developmental needs and capabilities.
Education is fundamental in parenting—it offers fresh perspectives and insights that can transform complex situations into opportunities for growth and connection. Understanding the importance of your healing journey will impact every part of your life.