In order for people to release their Self, they first need to know that it is there. The concept is a fairly simple one, though it can be a difficult one to grasp for someone who is a trauma victim. It is said that when someone asked Michelangelo how he created the David from a block of marble, his answer was easy. He said, “I knew he was in there and just needed someone to let him out.”
The same is true for the Self. For your Self. It is in there; someone just needs to let it out.
The Self is the centerpiece of the Internal Family Systems Model of treating trauma and it is typically the most difficult part for people to accept. The reality is that at your core, you are made of pure joy and peace. From that place, you can find healing, spiritual connectedness and tremendous leadership qualities that probably are the exact opposite of everything you thought you knew to be true about yourself. But it can take a while to get there.
How to Release the Self
As a trauma victim, you may find it hard to experience your Self because of those other “voices” you are hearing. For example, have you noticed that you ever feel as though something inside you is condemning you or causing you to feel ashamed? Maybe it’s anger you notice the most, or perhaps you have a voice telling you that you will never be good enough.
Like most people, you probably spend the majority of your time trying to push these voices away or worse, listening to them and taking what they say as the truth. But you might experience something totally different if you converse with them instead.
Ask those “voices” to step back and give you some space. They often will, which will allow your Self to emerge. This is a process, of course, and it might not be something you are able to do right away. But with some practice and guidance, the person you really are underneath all of those voices can shine through.
Would you like to talk with a professional about trauma therapy that can make a real difference in your life? I can help. Please contact me to make your appointment.
