Sometimes when we’re sad, overwhelmed, anxious, or grieving, there’s nothing in the world like a great hug from someone who loves us. It makes us feel safer, loved, and cared for. We can’t always have loved ones around to hug us, and even if we do, getting a dose of love and care from ourselves can be incredibly healing.
This visualization is a powerful method of self-care, especially for those with the tendency to beat themselves up. To begin, visualize two versions of yourself. The first version is yourself as a young child, maybe 4-5 years old, or whenever you were the absolute cutest. The second version is your divine self – your most perfect, loving, powerful, and at peace version of yourself. The God or Goddess within, or your higher self, or whatever you want to call it.
Channel the emotion you feel into the young child version of yourself. See the child crying, or scared, and notice the compassion you feel for this emotional young version of yourself. Often when we react as adults, we blame ourselves for our actions or emotions. When we acknowledge the child inside of us, it’s easier to let go of blame (and guilt, and shame).
See the divine version of yourself feeling absolute compassion for your child self. Have your divine self wrap your child self in a deep, loving hug, stroking your child self’s hair, or wiping away her tears. Feel the love your divine self has for your child self, and how your divine self only wants your child self to be happy and at peace. Allow your child self to cry it out while your divine self comforts her.
This takes only a few minutes but is a deeply soothing experience. When I do it, it helps me react to my emotions with love instead of fear.
What methods do you use for self-soothing?
Happy Mindful Life 