The neuroscience and psychology underlying healing are fundamental but often misunderstood. Unfortunately, the path to healing isn’t as straightforward as identifying a health issue and attempting to address it with a checklist of actions. This approach can inadvertently trigger alarm signals in the brain, signaling a perceived threat and undermining the sense of safety. A subtle shift in mindset, however, can yield life-changing results.
Having worked with numerous individuals over the years, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of understanding this concept. Once people grasp the significance of creating a safe internal environment, they unlock a new level of healing and freedom.
One of the most common barriers I observe in the healing journey is the relentless pursuit of fixing. This constant striving, fueled by fear and hypervigilance, perpetuates a cycle of distress and hinders true healing.
It’s essential to recognize that the body thrives in an environment of safety and ease. Chronic fear and the perpetual sense of urgency disrupt the nervous system, making it challenging to facilitate healing.
While it’s important to engage in self-care practices such as healthy eating, exercise, and meditation, it’s equally crucial to examine the motivation behind these actions. Shifting from a mindset of fear to one of safety and ease is paramount.
Here are three ways to ensure that the desire to heal is not fueled by fear:
- Cultivate Self-Compassion: Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness and understanding. Instead of approaching healing from a place of brokenness, self-criticism, or judgment, offer yourself the same level of kindness, care, and compassion you would extend to a loved one.
- Focus on Well-Being: Shift your focus from the notion of fixing what’s wrong to nurturing your overall well-being. Embrace activities that bring you joy, connect you with others, and foster a sense of fulfillment, rather than solely focusing on addressing perceived problems or deficiencies.
- Cultivate Intrinsic Motivation: Shift your mindset from fear-driven fixations to cultivating intrinsic motivation for healing. Instead of reacting to symptoms or discomfort, cultivate a deep-rooted desire to honor and care for yourself. Find joy and purpose in prioritizing your health and well-being, viewing each step towards healing as an empowering act of self-love and self-compassion
Remember, healing is not just about what you do; it’s about who you are being in the process. By cultivating an internal environment of safety and ease, you empower yourself to navigate the healing journey with resilience, confidence, and authenticity.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to heal your nervous system, restore your metabolism and receive support through your healing journey; consider joining my Inner Circle. You’ll gain access to exclusive workshops, insightful newsletters, powerful resources and a supportive community all dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for healing.
