Healing: Detaching From Your Old Self

Healing: Is the process of the restoration of health from an unbalance, disease, damage or trauma.

Don't let these romanticized movies drive your point of view. Healing isn't linear. It isn't clean cut, easy (definitely not) or black and white.  Everyone's experience and reflection is their own and it is each persons job to tackle their traumas in a (productive) way that will make them feel whole. The most important thing to remember is there isn't a time limit. There are going to be days, weeks and months that you think you're okay and then one morning you'll wake up and you aren't. That is also okay. It is a never ending process but it is a necessary process that we all go through. 

The 4 Stage Process is one I've experienced myself and it includes:

1. Acceptance 

Only after acceptance of the issue or hinderance can healing begin. It is the greatest liberator. This stage has to occur before you are able to work on yourself, reflect and even accept help. 

2. Insight

The smallest degree of acceptance can allow insight. It's a moment of clarity and realization. At this point, you can self reflect and notice detrimental or unhealthy behaviors directly related to this trauma. 

3. Action

Without a plan to action, thoughts are just thoughts. Intentions have no fuel without goals. Carefully take steps to ensue you have the right support and enhance your healing (journaling, painting, therapy or sports)

4. Self Esteem

Positive changes impact your health, sense of self and confidence. It changes your mindset and the person you see in the mirror. Your self esteem is tied to your self worth and can open up a new world in terms of positivity and productivity. This includes your sense of meaning , purpose, quality of life despite the struggles.

Again, there is no right or wrong. Maybe it will take a while for you of figure out what exactly you need to do to find a center and peace. For me it has been writing. I write on note pads, notebooks, journals, loose paper or even napkins to just get my feelings out and clear my mind. Below is a letter I wrote to clear my mind.

What do you think your healing activity is?