what is your inner child?

The term "inner child" refers to a psychological and emotional concept that represents the childlike aspect of a person's personality. 

This childlike part of ourselves is often seen as the part of us that is curious, imaginative, spontaneous, playful, and creative. 

The inner child is the sum of all the experiences, feelings, and memories that we have accumulated from childhood until now. It's the part of us that remembers the innocence and wonder of childhood and the freedom to express ourselves without fear of judgment or criticism. 

When we experience trauma or emotional wounds as children, our inner child can become wounded and develop coping mechanisms that may not be healthy or functional. This wounded inner child can cause emotional pain and can manifest in different ways, such as fear, anger, or low self-esteem. 

Inner child work is a therapeutic approach that helps individuals reconnect with their inner child, heal emotional wounds, and reawaken the joy, creativity, and spontaneity that are often lost as we grow older. 

This process can involve visualization exercises, journaling, meditation, and other techniques that promote self-awareness and self-compassion. 

In summary, the inner child is a concept that represents the childlike aspect within us, and healing this part of ourselves can lead to greater emotional well-being and a more fulfilling life.

Here are some steps to understand and connect with your inner child:

Start by acknowledging that you have an inner child. It can be helpful to visualize yourself as a child and to recognize that the emotions and experiences of that child are still a part of you.

Reflect on your childhood experiences. Think about your early memories, your relationships with family members and friends, and any significant events or traumas from your childhood. Try to identify any unresolved feelings or beliefs that stem from these experiences. 

Practice self-compassion. Be kind and gentle with yourself as you explore your inner child. Remember that your inner child is a part of you that deserves love and care. 

Engage in activities that bring you joy and playfulness. This could be anything from coloring or drawing to playing with toys or spending time in nature. These activities can help you tap into your inner child and connect with the feelings of joy and wonder that may have been lost over time. 

Consider seeking support from a therapist or counsel. A mental health professional can help guide you through the process of understanding and healing your inner child, and provide you with tools and resources to support your personal growth. 

Remember, understanding and connecting with your inner child is a journey, and it may take time and patience. But by taking steps to care for your inner child, you can improve your emotional well-being and develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and resilience. 

Here’s a video i did on inner child healing - Unlock your past trauma.

This blog post is directly from my book currently titled inner child healing. Its a 35 page book on innter child healing and breaking down some common issues found on the road to healing your inner child and becoming a better parent from it.