And what benefits could we see from starting this process?

At our core, every human craves to be seen, heard and loved. When these fundamental needs are unmet, inconsistently met or excessively fulfilled during childhood, the resulting wounds often follow us into adulthood. Without understanding the origins of these issues, we tend to apply temporary fixes and wonder why we keep encountering the same patterns in different situations. Addressing these root causes is essential for breaking free from repeating old patterns.

The benefits of inner child healing include:

Emotional healing: healing our inner child helps release and process repressed emotions, which leads to a healthier emotional state. By addressing and integrating these buried feelings, you can heal from the inside out. Healing takes time, but each step helps you reconnect with your true self – realising that your worth isn’t defined by the actions of others. That burden belongs to them, not you.
Improved relationships: addressing past wounds enables us to form healthier, more fulfilling relationships. When we heal our inner child, we move beyond insecurity and codependency, allowing us to connect with others from a place of emotional security and genuine intimacy. This fosters more supportive and enriching relationships.
Increased self-esteem: nurturing our inner child fosters self-love, self-acceptance, and a stable sense of self. As we learn to value and care for our inner child, we enhance our self-esteem and develop a stronger, more resilient identity.
Enhanced coping mechanisms: we develop better ways of using the tools we already possess to handle stress and life’s challenges with resilience. It’s about learning how to use these tools in a way that benefits us.
Personal growth: this journey encourages self-awareness and personal insight, allowing us to become more authentic and aligned with our true selves.

What are some common pitfalls of your One Good Thing? How can we avoid them?

Inner child healing isn’t about dwelling on the past or indulging in self-pity (though I believe in allowing yourself a brief pity party when needed). It’s about reclaiming the parts of ourselves that were buried or suppressed, transforming pain into power and purpose. Common challenges include:

Resistance to facing painful memories: this process can be emotionally intense. Take it slow and seek the guidance of a professional specialising in inner child healing, whether through hypnotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, or holistic energy work.
Self-criticism: as children, we often internalise blame and shame, making everything about ourselves. In adulthood, we must retrain our minds to practice self-compassion and let go of burdens that aren’t ours to carry. Healing, not perfection, is the goal.
Inconsistency: inner child healing is a lifelong process. Make it a lifestyle by incorporating consistent practices – daily or weekly meditation, displaying childhood photos, and engaging in activities you loved as a child. Remember, as you grow and evolve, new wounds may surface, requiring ongoing healing for different versions of your inner child.
Isolation: healing can feel overwhelming if done alone. Surround yourself with supportive friends, join groups with others on a similar journey or work with mental and spiritual wellness practitioners who can guide and hold space for your growth.

One Good Thing: why it’s time to commit to healing your inner child