Embracing yourself in the past
Duration of the exercise: 5-15 minutes.
Before doing the exercise, read the preparation instructions.
It has happened to all of us, even as children, to have suffered some kind of trauma. This exercise is meant to reassure that frightened or sad child that we were during those moments.
Close your eyes and turn your attention to your breathing. Take three deep breaths, then keep on breathing normally. Mentally repeat to yourself that with each exhalation you will relax more and more.
Now go back in time. Imagine yourself as a kid, in a situation where you were alone, afraid or sad. It doesn’t matter if you don’t remember exactly what was your appearance. Slowly get closer to the child, smiling at him as you would do with your children.
Open your arms toward him and hug him until he calms down. Stay for a few minutes with him, smile and talk to him, give him love inspire him with confidence. Let him know that there is nothing to worry about. Reassure him that he’s not alone and never will be.
Now that you have reassured and calmed him down, you can go. Take gently his hands and greet him, telling him that everything will be fine, and that whenever he needs, you will be there.
The image of the child slowly fades away.
End the visualization.
