THE JOURNEY

POWERFULLY EFFECTIVE TOOLS THAT CREATE LASTING TRANSFORMATION

Heal. Thrive. Awaken.

The journey will take you there., about the journey, how the journey can help you.

The Journey is a cutting-edge transformation and healing method pioneered by internationally acclaimed, best-selling author, speaker and mind-body-healing expert, Brandon Bays.

It offers a uniquely potent set of tools for awakening and liberating our infinite human potential. The work has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide free themselves from issues like anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, chronic anger and rage, physical illnesses, addictions and unhealthy behaviours, sexual or physical abuse, relationship problems and procrastination and career underperformance.

IT’S THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE JOURNEY WHO MAKE THE JOURNEY GREAT

Meet our founders.

The Journey Founder Brandon Bays and husband Kevin Billett have for almost three decades been using The Journey Method to create one of the most effective toolsets to heal, thrive and awaken. Read more about Brandon and Kevin and get to know the team behind The Journey.

the journey self healing

Brandon Bays

Journey founder.

The powerful teachings of The Journey were born from Brandon’s own direct experience of healing from a large tumour in just 6½ weeks – without drugs or surgery.

the journey self healing

Kevin Billett

Journey ceo.

Kevin Billett has partnered with Brandon Bays in The Journey for some 26 years. He is co-founder and CEO of The Journey companies and has co-designed with Brandon many of the curriculum events.

Meet the rest of our team >>

BETTER HEALTH, MORE ABUNDANCE, DEEPER FULFILMENT

One of the world’s most effective transformation methods.

The Journey Method can transform any area of Your Life

The Journey Method ® was developed by Brandon Bays in 1994 and has ever since been refined and expanded by Brandon and her partner Kevin Billett.

The method is a powerfully effective set of tools able to heal and transform any area of your life. Using and activating our own inbuilt healing capacity, The Journey Method works on the deepest levels of cellular healing to achieve astounding and lasting results.  Over the last 27 years millions of people from all backgrounds have experienced the extraordinary power of their own bodies’ healing capacity.

The Journey Method can be used to heal from physical and emotional issues, including stress, anxiety, depression and anger. It is potent in releasing the negativities that can lead to low self-esteem, procrastination and self-sabotage. It is deeply effective in healing and transforming relationships. It will help you remove blocks to abundance and success.

The Journey will guide you to a life of meaning, purpose and fulfilment.

If you are new to The Journey and haven’t yet experienced its power, start with some of the free tools available here or join us in one of our entry level events. You can even become a Journey Practitioner, helping others to heal and awaken to their true potential.

SEE FOR YOURSELF HOW THE JOURNEY CAN IMPROVE YOUR LIFE

Take your free self-assessment.

Our founders have created simple and free self-assessments with different focuses so you can quickly see hot to get the biggest benefit right now . Each assessment will give you clear guidance and practical recommendations on how to transform and heal.

Is your past still holding you back today?

Life Wounds and Trauma Self-Assessement.

You might be experiencing the effects of known and unknown trauma. We all have life wounds – good news we can heal from them.

Answer 11 simple questions and see which events of your past still compromises your life today and what you can do about it.

DOWNLOAD OUR EBOOKS AND GET ACCESS TO AUDIOS WITH BRANDON BAYS

Free access to bestselling books and our favourite meditations.

Brandon Bays’ classic ‘The Journey’ has become an international bestseller and was published in over 20 languages. Now you can download it free of charge here. Kevin Billett’s bestseller ‘Light in the Heart of Darkness’ is also available free as a download for you. And get instant access to some of Brandon’s most loved meditations.

the journey self healing

The Journey Book

Download Brandon Bays’ international bestseller ‘The Journey – A Practical Guide to Healing Your Life and Setting Yourself Free’

the journey self healing

Light in the Heart of Darkness

Kevin Billett’s Amazon #1 bestseller on how to free yourself from stress, anxierty and depression

the journey self healing

Meditations with Brandon Bays

Download some of Brandon Bays’ best-loved healing and relaxing meditations

FIND THE JOURNEY EVENT THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Journey events change lives.

To deeply experience the work and learn The Journey Method’s powerful introspections, book yourself a place at The Journey Intensive. 

The Journey Intensive gives you a powerful experience of the work and a set of skills that you can take with you and use in all areas of your life. Come prepared to do the work on yourself!

The Journey Intensive is a hands-on, experiential workshop where you learn the work through your own process, ‘turning the flashlight on inside’, facing your own inner issues, forgiving and completing with them – setting yourself free.

You’ll be guided by Brandon Bays and one of our international presenters. There is always an expert trainer team at hand, so you are fully supported at all times. All our retreats are online, so you can take them in the comfort of your own home.

If you are a Journey Intensive Graduate  looking for Advanced Retreats, please go here .

Join the millions around the world who use the journey method, extraordinary stories of healing and transformation.

For over 28 years The Journey Method has created astounding transformations in people’s lives – activating our body’s innate healing capabilities to restore physical, emotional and mental health for people all over the world.

the journey self healing

The powerful teachings of The Journey were born from Brandon’s own direct experience of healing from a large tumor in just 6 ½ weeks – without drugs or surgery.

Calling on her own mind-body healing knowledge, and the teachings of scientists such as Dr Deepak Chopra and Dr Candace Pert, Brandon innocently began to develop the transformational healing work that would become The Journey®.

The Journey allows us to get to the root cause of our limitations and the shut downs that prevent us from living life to the full – and that can even make us ill. It allows us to let go of the past and the emotional blocks that hold us back. As a result we experience healing and transformation at a cellular level. At The Journey Intensive seminar you’ll use the same tools Brandon developed from own direct experience of healing from a tumor and setting herself free.

the journey self healing

Kevin Billett has partnered with Brandon Bays in The Journey for some 18 years. He is co-founder and CEO of The Journey companies and has co-designed with Brandon many of the curriculum events. He is pioneer of the Visionary Leadership Programme, Out of the Blue and The Enneagram Masterclass

Leading consciousness-based workshops and retreats, Kevin points us to the unconscious patterns that have kept us small, and offers specific process work to strip away life’s limiting and painful conditioning – the ingrained fears, beliefs, vows and rules – and allow us to uncover the authentic greatness and genius potential that has always been inside us all.

Kevin’s main focus is bringing the power of this paradigm shifting and transformative work to individuals who recognise that they are not living to their highest and deepest potential. He is continually developing new work and is currently writing a book on freedom from depression.

Kevin also presents Healing with Conscious Communication and The Enneagram Masterclass and co-presents with Brandon The Journey’s most powerful course, Freedom from the Ego retreat.

He is loved for his disarming sense of humor, his warmth and down-to-earth straightforwardness. His willingness to expose the unguarded truth in himself relaxes people and allows them to personally explore the blocks and veils that have limited them, open into the deepest experience of their own potential and apply it in all areas of life – career, finances, relationship, home, recreation, sport and creativity. Some of his groundbreaking work is included in ‘Consciousness The New Currency,’ a book addressing our blocks to real abundance, which Kevin co-authored with Brandon Bays.

Kevin’s greatest love is facilitating the deepest realization of our human potential.

the journey self healing

We Mind Growth

How To Heal Yourself: 16 Solid Tips To Heal Mind, Body & Soul

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This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, read the full disclosure here.

Embarking on a self-healing journey can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. You might be asking yourself, “Where do I even begin?” Whether you’re exploring the aftermath of emotional upheaval , physical discomfort, or mental strain, the quest for healing is deeply personal yet universally understood.

This article will be your compass, guiding you through the essential principles of self-healing that resonate across all types of recovery. Remember, healing is not a sign of weakness but a commitment to your well-being. By actively participating in your healing process, you pave the way for a brighter, healthier future.

Together, we’ll explore how to heal yourself by harnessing the power of self-compassion, integrating modern techniques, and adopting practices that foster profound, lasting healing. Let’s begin on this journey towards a more healed and whole version of you.

How To Heal Yourself: Understanding Self-Healing

How to heal yourself: wmotional support by a pet

Embarking on the self-healing journey isn’t like embarking on a sprint; it’s more like training for a marathon. It’s a process, and guess what? You’re the coach, the athlete, and the biggest cheerleader.

So, lace up those metaphorical sneakers, and let’s dive deep into understanding self-healing without skimping on the fun or the facts.

How Do I Know When I Am in Need of Self-Healing?

Let’s be real; life sometimes feels like it’s serving lemons faster than we can make lemonade. But how do you know when it’s time to stop squeezing lemons and start focusing on healing? It starts with checking in with yourself.

Feeling more drained than your smartphone battery by noon? Struggling to remember the last time you smiled genuinely instead of serving a masterclass in “fake it till you make it”? Maybe you’re catching every cold known to humankind, or perhaps the emotional roller coaster of your daily life now feels like a never-ending free fall. If you’re nodding along, it’s time for a little self-TLC .

The Role Of Mind, Body, And Spirit

Healing isn’t just a one-and-done deal; it’s about aligning the stars within—your mind, body, and spirit. Imagine them as a trio in a band, each needing to play their part in harmony.

Your mind is like the lead singer, setting the tone and often stealing the show with its constant chatter. Taming the mind through meditation or mindfulness can turn its volume from a roar to a hum, allowing clearer thoughts and a calmer perspective .

Your body is the bassist—vital, grounding, and underrated. It communicates through sensations, discomfort, and energy levels, so tune into its rhythm. Swap out processed products for foods that nourish the soul, like fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Hydrate like you’re preparing for a drought, and move your body like it’s your favorite jam.

Finally, your spirit is the electric guitarist, connecting you to something greater and electrifying your existence with purpose and passion. Cultivate it through connections, creativity, and practices that make your heart sing.

Questions To Ask Yourself Before Healing

Before diving into the deep end of self-healing, here are a few introspective questions to paddle through:

  • What does healing look like for me? It’s your journey; define the destination.
  • Am I ready to make changes? Healing requires action, not just intention. Are your sneakers tied tightly?
  • What’s draining my energy? Identify the vampires in your life , be it habits, people, or mindsets.
  • What fills me with joy? Healing isn’t just about removing the bad; it’s equally about embracing the good.
  • Am I being compassionate towards myself? Be as kind to yourself as you would to a friend in need.

Text reading

How To Heal Yourself Emotionally

Exploring how to heal yourself can begin with emotional healing, and what a journey it can be! Buckle up, lovely, because it’s going to be a wild, rewarding ride. Sure, you’ve got some soul-searching to do, but the view on the other side? Absolutely priceless.

Let’s break it down into bite-sized pieces because the whole feast of emotional healing can be a lot to digest at once.

Recognize And Honor Your Feelings

First things first, let’s talk about your feelings. Yes, all of them – the good, the bad, and the ugly-cry kind. Recognizing and honoring your feelings is like giving yourself a VIP pass to the healing process. It’s about being honest with yourself, about what tickles your fancy and what grinds your gears.

Feel angry? Let it simmer, but don’t let it boil over. Sad? It’s okay to cry a river; just remember to paddle your way back. This step is essentially about giving yourself permission to feel all the feels without judgment. Think of it as building a cozy nest for your emotions – a safe space where they can chill before they fly the coop.

Practice Self-Compassion

Ah, self-compassion. It sounds like a warm hug, doesn’t it? That’s because it is. Practicing self-compassion means being your own cheerleader, your own shoulder to lean on, and your own best friend. Self-compassion gives back to you great power over your well-being.

Talk to yourself like you would to a friend who’s going through a rough patch. Be kind, understanding, and, most importantly, generous with those mental snacks of love and encouragement. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill yours up with a hefty dose of self-compassion.

Don’t Try to “Fix” it All At Once

Here’s the thing – you’re not a project that needs fixing. You’re a masterpiece in progress. Trying to heal all at once is like trying to eat a seven-course meal in one bite. Spoiler alert: it’s not going to be pretty.

Break it down, focus on one thing at a time, and give yourself the grace to take it step by step. Embrace the messiness. There will be setbacks, there will be victories, and there will be days when you don’t feel like doing anything at all. And that’s okay. Healing is not about crossing the finish line; it’s about appreciating the journey.

Understand That Healing Is Not Linear

Expecting your healing journey to be a straight line is like expecting to find a unicorn at the end of a rainbow; overly optimistic, and you’re bound to be disappointed. Healing zigs, it zags, it backtracks, and sometimes it does the cha-cha.

There will be days when you feel on top of the world and others when you feel under it. That’s normal. Embrace the unpredictability of the process and know that each step, forward or backward, is still a step towards healing.

Building a Support Network

No man is an island, especially not when it comes to emotional healing. Building a support network is like assembling your personal Avengers team – each member brings something unique to the table.

Friends, family, pets, plants – whoever or whatever makes you feel understood, loved, and a wee bit happier. Lean on them, laugh with them, and let them help you through the rough patches. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s a badge of bravery.

Seek Professional Help If Needed

Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is call in the experts. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need someone to help you untangle your thoughts, seeking professional help is a game-changer.

Therapists, counselors, and mental health professionals are like emotional ninjas—they have the skills, moves, and stealth to help you navigate the battlefield of your mind. Don’t hesitate to reach out. Your future self will thank you.

Woman stretching on a mat

How To Heal Yourself Physically

Our bodies are magnificent creations that act as blueprints for almost every machine the human mind conceives. However, the Western style of living causes our bodies to creak and malfunction like actual machines.

It’s all fun and games until your body starts sending you the “Hey, remember me?” signals. That’s right. It’s time to discuss how to heal your body by understanding its signals and prioritizing its needs. Buckle up!

Invest In Proper Sleep and Rest

Sleep is not just your body’s “off” switch. It’s more like hitting the reset button each night. Think of your body as a smartphone; without enough charge, it’s going to glitch. Proper sleep and rest are your chargers. They help mend your broken bits by repairing tissues, balancing hormones, and boosting your immune system .

And guess what? Skimping on sleep is like trying to run a marathon after pulling an all-nighter. Spoiler alert: It’s a disaster waiting to happen. So, how about giving your body the rest it deserves? Aim for 7-9 hours of quality shut-eye, resist the temptation of late-night scrolling, and watch your body thank you by bouncing back stronger.

Nutrition’s Role in Healing

Let’s talk food. Not just any food, but the kind that fuels your self-healing superpowers. Imagine your body as a high-performance vehicle. You wouldn’t fill it with sub-par fuel, right? The same goes for your body. Quality nutrition packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is like premium fuel.

A healthy diet (with or without weight loss) boasts numerous health benefits , like battling inflammation and boosting your immune system. So, jump into those colorful fruits and veggies, lean proteins, wholesome grains, and healthy fats. Your body’s repair kit will thank you. Remember, healing starts from the inside. Treat your body like the temple it is and nourish it with foods that heal.

Support Of Nutritional Supplements

Sometimes, even with the best intentions, our diet might not cover all the bases. Enter nutritional supplements, the little helpers that can fill in the gaps of a healthy diet. Vitamin D, omega-3s, and probiotics are just a few MVPs that can elevate your healing game.

But, it’s like exploring a bazaar out there, with options galore. Quality matters, folks! Consult with a healthcare professional to tailor your supplement strategy, ensuring it complements your unique needs and lifestyle.

Remember, not all people need to take supplements. After all, supplements are the guest stars, not the main cast. Your diet is the real hero.

Reduce Or Remove Stress From Your Life

Oh, stress. It’s like that uninvited guest who crashes your party and doesn’t know when to leave. Stress throws a wrench in your healing process, sparking inflammation and paving the path for mind and body diseases . Here’s the thing: kicking stress to the curb or at least putting it in a headlock might just be what your body needs to heal.

Find your zen through meditation, yoga, or whatever floats your relaxation boat. Cultivate joy, connect with loved ones , and indulge in hobbies that light you up inside. Reducing stress isn’t just good for your physical health; it’s a game-changer for your overall wellbeing. Show stress the door, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier you.

The Benefits Of Regular Exercise

Last but certainly not least is the magic of movement. Exercise isn’t just about getting swole or marathon-ready. It’s about lubricating your joints, improving circulation, and keeping the blues at bay. Regular physical activity can turbocharge your healing process , boost your mood , and even help keep chronic diseases in check.

The key? Find activities you genuinely enjoy. Dance like nobody’s watching, hike through nature’s wonders or hit the yoga mat for some soulful stretching. Make movement a non-negotiable part of your daily routine, and watch as your body transforms, heals, and thrives. Here’s an article on how to find the motivation you need even when you struggle with your mental health.

Woman doing yoga

How To Heal Yourself Spiritually

Embarking on a spiritual healing journey can feel a bit like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded—exciting, a tad overwhelming, but oh-so-satisfying when you start to see progress. Let’s break down this mystical quest into manageable, bite-sized pieces, shall we?

Meditation And Mindfulness

Imagine your brain as a hyperactive squirrel, darting from one thought to another. Now, what if I told you meditation could transform that squirrel into a zen master, calmly sipping herbal tea? Meditation and mindfulness are your tickets to turning down the volume of life’s playlist, allowing you to tune into your inner peace channel.

Start by finding a quiet spot—yes, even if it’s your bathroom at 6 a.m. before the world wakes up. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Your mind will wander, planning your grocery list or replaying that awkward thing you said in fifth grade.

That’s okay. Gently bring your focus back to your breath. It’s less about silencing your thoughts and more about not letting them crash your zen party. Aim for a few minutes daily and increase as you become a more seasoned meditationer. You can find helpful resources at Headspace or everywhere online.

Practice Affirmations Or Mantras

Words are powerful —so powerful they can lift you up or smack you down. Affirmations or mantras are like your spiritual hype crew, constantly reminding you of your worth, strength, and ability to heal. Pick a phrase that resonates with you, something that makes your soul do a little happy dance. “I am a radiant beam of sunshine in a sometimes cloudy world” – cheesy? Maybe. Effective? Absolutely.

Your mantra is your secret weapon against the world’s negativity. Repeat it. Sing it. Yell it from your shower. The more you believe in your words, the more they’ll start to manifest in your life. It’s like tricking your brain into being its best self.

Make Time For Your Passions

Your passions are not just hobbies ; they’re the breadcrumbs leading you to your authentic self. When you’re knee-deep in what you love, whether it’s painting, coding, or underwater basket weaving, you’re in your spiritual element. This is when you’re most connected to your essence, and healing can truly begin.

Making time for your passions means prioritizing joy and curiosity over the mundane to-dos of life. Schedule it if you must, like an unbreakable coffee date with your soul. Your passions fuel your spirit’s fire, making every aspect of your life brighter and warmer.

Journal About Your Thoughts And Emotions

Grab a pen and spill your guts onto the page—metaphorically, of course. Journaling is like having a heart-to-heart with your inner self, no holds barred. It’s your personal reality show where you’re the star, the audience, and the critic. Write about your day, your dreams, that weird dream about flying on a giant pizza—anything that stirs your pot.

This act of self-reflection can be incredibly healing. It allows you to process emotions, untangle thoughts, and spot patterns. Reading back through your entries can be a real eye-opener, like a “Whoa, did I really write that?” moment. These insights are golden nuggets on your path to healing.

Practice Kindness

In a world that often feels like a free-for-all, kindness is your rebellion . It starts with being kind to yourself. Why don’t you cut yourself some slack? You’re doing your best in this wild ride called life. When you’re kind to yourself, extending that kindness to others becomes second nature.

Practicing kindness can look like complimenting a stranger, volunteering, or simply sending good vibes out into the universe. Wish for others the peace and healing you seek for yourself. This creates a boomerang effect, where the kindness you put out often finds its way back to you, enriching your spiritual journey.

How to heal yourself: woman surrounded by flowers

Final Thoughts On How To Heal Yourself

Healing yourself is a beautiful journey that’s as unique as you are. By embracing the practices of mind, body, and spirit harmony, you’ve taken the first steps toward a more fulfilled and healthy life.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination but the path you take to get there. Whether it’s through meditation, nourishing your body with good food, connecting deeply with others, or finding joy in your passions, each step is a move toward healing.

Keep listening to your body, feeding your soul with what it needs, and treating yourself with kindness. Here’s to your journey of self-healing and discovery, where each day brings you closer to the peace and well-being you deserve!

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Natural healing methods like mindfulness, proper nutrition, exercise, and self-care can work wonders. It’s about finding what works best for you and your body.

Start by listening to your body and mind. Practice self-awareness and identify areas that need healing. Incorporate activities like meditation, journaling, therapy, and seeking support from loved ones.

Yes, you can! Mental healing is a journey, and it takes time and effort. With the right support, coping strategies, and professional help if needed, you can absolutely heal and thrive.

Healing can be painful because it involves facing and processing emotions, traumas, and past experiences. It’s like cleaning out a wound before it can properly heal. But remember, the pain is temporary, leading to growth and resilience in the long run.

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My name is Ariadne, but you can call me Annie. I am a medical student with a deep curiosity for life and personal growth. During my earlier student years, I struggled with my mental health and body image. However, that experience was life’s greatest gift - It helped me realize our unlimited potential for evolving and designing the life of our dreams. I enjoy doing yoga and Meditation and I am passionately seeking the intersection between modern and traditional medicine. I try to approach health and wellness through a no-BS filter and provide science-backed information.

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There are some many things we can do to start, and take care of our healing. We can be proactive and use the tools around us. This was a great reminder that we can take our healing forward.

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Victoria Maxwell

The 6 Steps of Healing You Need to Know

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Posted April 21, 2015 | Reviewed by Jessica Schrader

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When I learned I had bipolar disorder (BD), my shrink (he quickly became my ex-shrink—I’ve fired a few of them) said BD was “just like diabetes.” You know that whole “it’s like any other medical illness and that’s why you take medication for it.”

I heartily agree there are biological factors involved with mental illness and the medication I take has been a godsend. But it’s not, and I repeat it’s not like having diabetes or any illness that is considered physical. A psychiatric disorder diagnosis is different. The illness attacks the body and mind, but more particularly the sense of self. I'm sure some physical illnesses affect a person's identity and confidence as well. But there is something that is particularly cutting about the stigma of mental illness.

My old identity shattered. Who am I if I have a mental disorder? If I’ve been in the psych ward? If I’ve had psychotic episodes? If I’ve been committed? Tied to a gurney? Take psychiatric medication? The most devastating obstacle was the damage the stigma wreaked on my psyche. Ironically, external barriers such as stereotypical ‘red tape’ and material losses were the easiest to overcome.

However, as much as I believe there are differences in being diagnosed with a mental illness, what I've come to realize is that any severe or chronic illness ravages our sense of confidence in how we will manage in the world and what life actually means.

Take any traumatic event: a suicide attempt, a diagnosis of cancer; whether the event is mental or physical, it doesn't matter. As healing begins, several stages start to occur. Each happen at varying rates and depths unique to the person undergoing the crisis. No right or wrong, but a healing pattern unique as a fingerprint. I say healing, because this is not about cure, but about creating wholeness not health; creating meaning so that the wounds of our illness no longer pain us, but become part of our living narrative enriching ourselves and those around us.

This six-stage healing process is one I discovered as I’ve gone (and continue to go) through recovery and what I’ve seen in others. Although described as a sequential process, it’s more accurately pictured as a woven tapestry. When one part of the tapestry is restored, all aspects of the piece shifts and improves.

1. Acceptance. Denial of the illness is the greatest barrier; acceptance, the greatest liberator. When we start, albeit slowly perhaps, to accept our illness, mental illness or otherwise, only then can healing begin. Often the longest leg and biggest barrier in the road to recovery is the journey to acceptance.

The process of acceptance is similar to the joke: how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Bit by small digestible bit, denial is eventually erased. It took a full five years for me to accept I had psychiatric illnesses before I became willing to accept help.

2. Insight. Even the smallest degree of admission allows insight to begin. It is only then that I will notice and then have the ability to monitor details of the illness: warning signs, behaviors exacerbating mood swings, frequency of shifts.

3. Action. At each stage of insight, I can craft a plan of action to enhance recovery or take steps to enlist support to help me do so. If I see staying up late worsens my illness, I learn to turn into bed earlier. If connecting with friends helps keep me buoyant, I find ways to nurture my social ties.

4. Self-esteem. As I make positive choices, I see how those decisions and actions impact my health, rebuilding my sense of competency, self-efficacy and in turn my self-esteem. This encourages further acceptance, insight, and action.

5. Healing. When I allow myself to accept an illness I would rather not and take actions to combat it, healing is a natural by-product. Healing needs to be defined very broadly. Healing does not necessarily mean remission of symptoms, fewer stays in the hospital, or a return to the level of functioning pre-illness. It is (in my definition) the restoration of a sense of meaning, purpose, sense of self, and quality of life, despite struggles with the illness.

6. Meaning. As healing occurs, the self returns to new wholeness complete with these past new experiences and new choices. It is here meaning can unfold. Via discovery, meaning, from an otherwise painful experience, is birthed. Discovery of familial history, personal strengths, bonds of friendship , and belief systems play a pivotal role in crafting purpose. The significance an illness holds differs from person to person. Every malady emerges from unique sets of life circumstances. The distinct details from which the disorder arises shape the kind of meaning harvested.

the journey self healing

If we accept illness, seek to understand its mechanics, importance can be derived even from our darkest hour. This isn’t to diminish or ignore the pain experienced by those of us with devastating illness and our families. On the contrary, it’s to honor struggles and celebrate the power that is retrieved. Remember, facing what is, is an act of bravery.

Wholeness and meaning are hard-won. Finding meaning isn’t dependent upon comprehending the ‘why’ or ‘what’ of it all. Paradoxically, it is as we learn to live without knowing the ‘why’s’ that peace and meaning emerge.

Life is not a problem to be solved but a mystery to be lived. –Anonymous

© Victoria Maxwell. For more posts like this, sign up for my e-newsletter on my website's home page: www.victoriamaxwell.com .

Victoria Maxwell

Victoria Maxwell is a playwright, actor, and lecturer on her 'lived' experiences of bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychosis and recovery.

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Self Healing Journey: Practical Steps to Start Today

In today's fast-paced world, where the demands of modern life seem ceaseless and challenges abound, the pursuit of methods to heal and rejuvenate has transcended being a mere luxury – it has become a pressing necessity.

As individuals navigate the complexities of daily existence, embarking on a self-healing journey has risen to the forefront as an imperative step toward finding solace amidst the chaos .

What is a Self-Healing Journey?

What is Self Healing Journey

In the midst of life's demands and challenges, the concept of a self-healing journey emerges as a beacon of hope and transformation.

This journey entails a deliberate and conscious commitment to restoring the equilibrium within your body and the harmony within your mind and spirit.

Imagine it as embarking on a quest of self-discovery. It's a personalized expedition that recognizes the intricate interplay between your physical health, emotional well-being, and the very essence of your being.

In a self-healing journey, you become the protagonist, the navigator of your own story, taking the reins of your destiny into your capable hands. It's about acknowledging and honoring your innate power.

As you delve into this transformative expedition, you unearth the profound wisdom of your body—the whispers of intuition, the language of sensations, and the symphony of rhythms that orchestrate your existence.

You tap into your body's remarkable ability to restore and rejuvenate, becoming an active participant in your own healing process. This sense of empowerment is the driving force that propels you forward in your journey.

Furthermore, a self-healing journey is not a solitary endeavor. It's an invitation to connect with yourself in ways you may have never explored before. Your body becomes your sanctuary —a place where you can nurture, heal, and flourish.

So, when you embark on a self-healing journey, you're not just embarking on a path to overcome pain; you're embarking on a transformative expedition to reclaim your life, your essence, and your power. It's a journey that radiates with the promise of renewed hope, resilience, and a rekindled sense of self.

When Does Someone Need a Self-Healing Journey?

We all can reap the benefits of a self-healing journey, even if we don’t have any symptoms or experience chronic pain. It is one of the best preventive techniques that I know.

This journey becomes essential when conventional approaches to managing chronic pain (physical or emotional) fall short. It is an excellent option for those who seek a personalized approach, a holistic understanding of their bodies, and an empowerment that comes from taking an active role in their healing process .

A Self-healing Jouney can help a wide range of symptoms, including:

Musculoskeletal disorders: back pain, neck pain, headache, sciatica problems...

Emotional issues: stress, anxiety, depression, excessive worry or fear, etc.

Digestive disorders: bloating, Constipation, GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease), Acid reflux

Auto-immune conditions: lupus, fibromialgia, rheumatoid arthritis

Sleep problems

Burnout and constant fatigue

Somatic-Visceral Interactions

​And much more

Benefits of the Self-Healing Journey

Benefits of Self Healing Journey

The benefits of a self-healing journey extend far beyond pain management. By delving into the interconnectedness of physical and emotional health, individuals can experience a profound shift in their overall well-being.

Women navigating the challenges of chronic pain can find confort in the fact that this journey can lead to improved pain release, reduced inflammation, and enhanced emotional resilience.

The 4 Pillars of Holistic Self-Healing Journey

The 4 Pillars of Holistic Self Healing Journey

For well over a decade, I've had the privilege of guiding numerous clients on their journey to healing. Throughout this journey, I've had the opportunity to identify what I call the "Four Pillars of Self-Healing." These pillars have proven to be invaluable in helping my patients accelerate their progress as they learn to integrate them into their healing voyage.

1. Access Your Body's Intelligence

You may be asking, "What does Body Intelligence mean?" It is the inner wisdom that the body has; the inner knowing allows us to feel t hirsty, hungry , or even know when we need to leave a relationship that isn't working for us.

Imagine being able to detect tension and discomfort in your body long before they escalate into pain; it is as if we could listen to the whispers that your body sends long before they escalate into shouts of pain.

Many people are unaware of what triggers their discomfort because they haven't fully connected with their internal body intelligence. This internal wisdom serves as a guide, providing signals about what's working and what's not.

By tuning into this intelligence, we can avoid activities that harm us and embrace those that promote our well-being. Enhancing your body awareness through accessing your body's intelligence is a pivotal step in your self-healing journey.

2. Master Your Nervous System

Have you ever noticed your pain or symptoms getting worse when you are having a stressful day? Yes, that is called the Stress-Pain cycle .

When we're in a state of stress (marked by the fight, flight, or freeze response), the body's capacity for healing is severely compromised, and how we perceive pain can shift.

Conversely, activating our parasympathetic nervous system (known as the rest, digest, and heal state) facilitates the body's natural healing mechanisms. In this state of relaxation and healing, the body can accelerate the healing processes.

How to start a Self-Healing Journey

3. Release Trauma from the Body

The third pillar delves into the vital process of releasing trauma stored within the body. Our bodies often carry the weight of trauma, whether we experience a significant event or a series of smaller experiences.

When you have trauma stored in the body, it is like you are carrying a very heavy backpack ; everything requires more effort, and after a while, you may even forget that you are carrying the extra weight, but your body doesn't forget.

Your body still has to work so much harder to "live a normal life". It's essential to acknowledge and address the physical and emotional trauma held within our bodies. By honoring and releasing this accumulated trauma, you can feel lighter, and your body can relax and heal.

4. Ignite Your Innate Healing Abilities

This pillar recognizes the remarkable regenerative power inherently present within our bodies.

Have you ever cut your finger, and within a few minutes/hours/days it completely healed? You probably experienced the power of self-healing multiple times in your life already.

The question that arises is: How can we awaken and utilize this inherent healing potential?

The answer to this question is highly individual and unique to each person's journey.

By tapping into this latent power, we can expedite healing, promote tissue regeneration, reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and embark on a transformative journey toward lasting well-being .

Each of these pillars constitutes a foundational aspect of your self-healing journey.

Together, they form a comprehensive approach that guides you through the 5 Stages of Healing: discovery, awareness, emb

odiment, empowerment, and, ultimately, mastery.

How Do I Start a Self-Healing Journey?

Self Healing Path

Embarking on a self-healing journey is similar to setting foot on a transformative path that guides you from a place of powerlessness to empowerment and mastery.

This journey is marked by five distinct and progressive stages, each serving as a stepping stone toward achieving holistic healing and lasting transformation .

As you navigate through these stages, you'll gradually unveil the layers of your inner strength, gaining profound insights into the intricate connection between your mind, body, and spirit.

As you embark on this transformative path, may you find support and renewed hope. With each step you take, you draw closer to reclaiming your life, embracing vitality, and nurturing holistic well-being.

Stage 1: Discovery

During the initial stage of your self-healing journey, you will embark on deep self-discovery. This stage is crucial as it helps you to clearly understand your intentions, goals, and vision.

By doing so, you can lay the groundwork for your healing journey by clarifying what you want and making it easier to create a path to get there.

This stage helps you to identify the specific areas of your life that are most impacted by your pain and what is blocking you from reaching your goals. With this clarity, you can start developing a roadmap that caters to your specific needs.

Understanding what motivates you to move forward will allow you to approach your healing journey with a sense of purpose and direction, which can be incredibly empowering and motivating.

Stage 2: Awareness

Once we are clear about our current situation and our goals for the future, we need to learn how to identify the blocks that stop us from moving forward. During this stage, you will learn to release those blocks that hinder your progress.

This newfound awareness will empower you to identify and release patterns, triggers, and stressors that exacerbate your pain, allowing you to move forward with ease and confidence.

Cultivating mindfulness becomes a potent tool during this stage as you learn to observe without judgment, becoming attuned to the intricate dance between your mental and physical realms.

By developing this skill, you can identify and manage your thoughts and emotions better, which can help you lead a fulfilling life.

Stage 3: Embodiment

With awareness comes a natural progression into the stage of embodiment. You can move what you know/understand into a deeper experience, embodying the knowing into your body and heart.

Now equipped with the ability to release and overcome inner blocks, it is easier to recognize the interplay between your inner experiences and your environment. It is also easier to seek ways to nurture a deeper mind-body connection.

When you connect the mind with the body, you can create healthier boundaries, access your body intelligence, regulate the nervous system, and ignite your healing abilities.

This integration sets the stage for deeper healing and transformation.

Stage 4: Empowerment

As you delve deeper into your self-healing journey, the stage of empowerment emerges as a beacon of strength. Here, you actively take charge of your healing process by exploring a range of modalities that resonate with you.

You are ready and excited to go deeper and heal the trauma stored in your body, older shadows, or embrace your inner child . You are connected with your body and can consciously choose methods that align with your unique needs and preferences.

This active participation in your healing journey empowers you to regain a sense of control and agency over your well-being.

Stage 5: Mastery

The final stage represents the culmination of your self-healing journey. Having explored the previous stages, you trust yourself and have gained a profound understanding of your inner landscape and the tools that facilitate your healing.

You are now equipped to navigate challenges with resilience, armed with a toolkit of practices that support your holistic health. You already have the essential tools and are ready to practice choosing the best tool for each situation or challenge you encounter.

At this stage, you embody the essence of mastery, a testament to your commitment to self-discovery, awareness, embodiment, and empowerment.

In the grand tapestry of life, a self-healing journey is a transformative odyssey that invites you to uncover your innate strength and master the art of holistic healing. It beckons you to embark on a path where pain is not the final destination but a stepping stone to transformation.

By navigating through the stages of discovery, awareness, embodiment, empowerment, and mastery, you will empower yourself to rewrite the narrative of chronic pain and embrace a life of vitality and wellness.

As we conclude this exploration of a self-healing journey, remember that it's not a one-size-fits-all expedition. It's a personalized quest where you are the hero, the healer, and the master of your destiny.

In your pursuit of holistic well-being, consider an experienced guide, a mentor that will help you to navigate each stage, from discovery to mastery, unveil new facets of your inner strength, and guide you toward profound healing.

I will be happy to guide you as you embark on your self-healing journey, for within you, the power to heal and flourish awaits.

May your path be filled with renewed hope, resilience, and the profound joy of self-discovery.

Be Healthy Academy

In your journey towards holistic well-being, explore the invaluable support offered by resources like the Be Healthy Academy , a sanctuary where a compassionate healthcare provider serves as your guide and where transformative workshops and a nurturing community come together to illuminate your path to healing.

As you embark on your self-healing journey, you will receive practical resources that can guide you every step of the way, and you'll gain the knowledge and tools to initiate and sustain your transformational path toward taking your life back.

References:

Salay, T. (n.d.). How to Start a Self-Healing Journey. Retrieved from https://drtarasalay.com/how-to-start-a-self-healing-journey/

MentalHelp.net. (n.d.). The Healing Journey: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.mentalhelp.net/ptsd/the-healing-journey/

The Lifeline Center. (n.d.). What Is the Self-Healing Journey and Why Does It Matter? Retrieved from https://www.thelifelinecenter.com/what-is-the-self-healing-journey-and-why-does-it-matter/

Sunny. (n.d.). Own Your Healing Journey. Retrieved from https://roundglass.com/sunny/articles/own-your-healing-journey

Images shared under Free Creative Commons License, from Freepik or are from Ana's private gallery.

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How to Find Emotional Healing

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What Is Emotional Healing?

Tips for you as you heal.

  • Finding Emotional Healing

How Do I Know If I Am Healing?

Emotional healing happens when you can acknowledge, accept, and process difficult emotions or experiences. This process looks different for everyone, but it is possible as long as you are open to releasing expectations about what the experience will be like or what it will lead to.

The reality is that you will never be the same person you were before whatever happened that you are healing from.   That can feel scary, but that can also feel incredibly freeing as you attempt to find yourself and experience post-traumatic growth.

At a Glance

After you've gone through something painful, difficult, traumatic, or life-changing, it's essential to heal your mind as much as your body. The emotional healing process takes time, and it looks different for each person. Regardless of what you are healing from, taking steps like practicing self-compassion, practicing mindfulness, caring for your body, and trying therapy can help. Let's take a closer look at why emotional healing is so important and the steps you can take to recover emotionally from life's challenges.

Emotional healing is the process of acknowledging, allowing, accepting, integrating, and processing painful life experiences and strong emotions. It may involve empathy, self-regulation , self-compassion, self-acceptance , mindfulness, and integration.

Many people have a tendency to want to control the process of emotional healing by minimizing the pain and controlling their emotions. However, this can actually inhibit the process of emotional healing.

Emotional healing takes the time that it takes—which may be longer or shorter than you expect or plan on—if you allow it to be fully acknowledged, felt, moved through, and processed.

Emotional healing will look different for everybody, but it may include emotional regulation skills , a feeling of lightness, and stronger relationships as you can be more present with yourself and your loved ones.

When Do You Need Emotional Healing?

All people will need emotional healing at some point during their lives—we all experience challenges and difficult emotions that need processing.

Some common life stressors after which people may seek emotional healing include:

  • Loss of a loved one
  • Abuse (including emotional, physical, and sexual)

Outside of specific events, it's also possible to experience intensifying, lingering, and seemingly unshakeable anger, sadness, or anxiety that feels like it is taking over your life. These feelings may cause a functional impairment in your day-to-day life. Emotional healing may look different if symptoms are becoming chronic.

No matter what the trigger for your difficult emotions, emotional healing is possible in all of these scenarios.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Healing

We won't sugarcoat it—emotional healing is not an easy process, but it can be incredibly rewarding for many people and help them find clarity and inspiration in life beyond whatever it is they are healing from. Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself as you embark on your healing journey.

What are you healing from? Maybe you don’t know, but you know you’d like things to be different:

  • How is not healing affecting your life?
  • What do you want your life to look like after you’ve healed?
  • If you woke tomorrow, how would you know you had healed?
  • Are you ready to heal?
  • Are you willing to sit through some discomfort in service of healing?
  • What will help you on your emotional healing journey?
  • How has not yet healing served you?
  • What can you do to make your healing journey gentle for yourself?

Mindful Moment

Need a breather? Take this free 10-minute meditation focused on finding clarity —or choose from our guided meditation library to find another one that will help you feel your best.

As you work through the healing process, here are some tips that can help:

Practice Self-Compassion

You’re not broken. It’s pretty hard to heal if you’re beating yourself up all the time. That's why showing yourself kindness and compassion can be key to your emotional healing.

Research has shown that people who practice self-compassion show more significant increases in well-being than those who don't.

Thank Yourself

Thank yourself. Yes, that’s right—thank yourself. Despite the emotional pain you’ve experienced that’s leading you on this emotional healing journey, you have made it this far. Whatever coping mechanisms you used worked for you at the time, even if they don’t work now, or weren’t the "healthiest" in the first place. 

While past coping mechanisms might not serve you now, you've made it this far. You've shown you have the strength and resolve to find new strategies that will move your forward toward healing.

Don't Go it Alone

Science shows we heal better together. Your instinct might be to go into hiding until you are "done" healing, but the reality is that your friends and family probably want to help you! Reach out to someone who feels safe.

Don’t Try to "Fix" it All at Once

Emotional healing is not simple, and whatever happened to you likely has deeper roots in you than you realized and may be affecting you in many ways. Back to being realistic: don’t expect to fix all the ways your issue or trauma has affected you all at once.

Sit Through It

This may be one of the hardest things to do. You are likely experiencing a range of deep feelings such as sadness, grief or rage. Those aren't fun emotions and it’s tempting to want to ignore them or rush through them. It will be uncomfortable, but acknowledging tough feelings is part of healing. The good news is that feelings do pass even if it doesn’t feel like they will.

Know That Progress Isn’t Linear

You may feel like you are making the best breakthroughs, and then you have a terrible day where you feel like all of your emotional healing has been undone—or that you did something wrong. If you broke a leg, you might have a bad day where you’re in pain again despite a sustained period of healing. 

Benefits of Emotional Healing

You may not like the pain that you’re in, but maybe you’re afraid to work on emotional healing because you’re afraid of what you might find in the process. This is a valid concern, but here are some of the health benefits that are associated with the positive emotions associated with healing.

  • Better cardiovascular health
  • Potentially longer lifespan 
  • Lower cortisol (stress hormone) output
  • Lower heart rate
  • Less likely to develop upper respiratory infection when exposed to a common cold or flu

If you're trying to heal your emotional pain, here are some ways that you can embark on your journey to emotional healing.

Emotional healing can be incredibly rewarding but it can also be painful in the interim. You might want to consider talking to a mental health professional who is trained in working with people on emotional healing journeys every day.

They can help you heal at a pace that is appropriate for you and provide the insight you might not be able to reach on your own. 

Get Help Now

We've tried, tested, and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, BetterHelp, and ReGain. Find out which option is the best for you.

Mindfulness

When we are attempting emotional healing from something, it can be very easy to get pulled back into past events or to catastrophize what the future will be like if you don’t heal. Mindfulness practices can help you be in the present moment and see that, at this moment, you are just fine.

Journaling is often suggested—and for good reason. Research has shown that journaling may be an effective tool for building greater emotional resilience .

Allow yourself to feel the fullness of your grief, anger, pain, or loss without attaching further meaning, stories, or thoughts. This can be deeply healing and helpful in processing emotions.

Research suggests that many emotions tend to be fairly short-lived. Some last longer than others. Challenging emotions like shame , fear, disgust, boredom, and irritability tend to fade the fastest.  

This information can help emotions feel less overwhelming. When an emotion overcomes you, you can keep an eye on the clock to note how long it takes before the feeling dissipates—employing mindfulness skills in the meantime.

Notice, allow, and describe the physical sensation of the emotion moving through your body without judging it or attempting to change it. Breathe through the sensations.

You can perform exercises to ground yourself such as putting your feet on the floor, drinking a sip of water, or running cold water over your hands.

Move Your Body

As you're experiencing difficult emotions, try to move your body to help process your feelings. Move your body as it wants to move (i.e., slowly or quickly, shaking or running).

Moving the body to process stress or trauma can be seen in the animal kingdom as well. In his book "Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma," therapist Peter A. Levine notes that in the wild, an impala that escapes its predator will instinctively "shake off" the traumatic event, regaining full movement of its body.

Helpful Therapeutic Techniques

Therapeutic techniques like somatic experiencing (SE) and trauma release exercises (TRE) can help process and move trauma and emotions from within the body. SE involves becoming aware of their internal bodily sensations and bringing awareness to them. TRE consists of a person intentionally moving their body to decrease stress levels.

Get Support

Social support can also play a vital role in emotional healing. Be open to receiving support from your community. Allow yourself to be seen, supported, and cared for by friends and loved ones.

There is no finish line to cross that signifies you are fully healed! Emotional healing can sometimes be so gradual you may not even realize how much you've healed, and others may notice it before you.

Signs of emotional healing include being able to look back at a situation without being overcome by emotion, getting better at bouncing back in the face of adversity, or simply feeling a greater sense of peace.

There may be deeper and deeper levels of emotional healing to be discovered. Do your best to live in a way that honors and supports your continued journey of emotional healing. This will allow you to experience ever-expanding emotional healing that can improve your physical, emotional, and mental health, well-being, satisfaction in life, and connection to yourself and others.

Press Play for Advice On Healing From Trauma

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast , featuring Holocaust survivor Dr. Edith Eger & daughter Dr. Marianne Engle shares how to heal from trauma and build resilience. Click below to listen now.

Follow Now : Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Google Podcasts

Crego A, Yela JR, Riesco-Matías P, Gómez-Martínez MÁ, Vicente-Arruebarrena A. The benefits of self-compassion in mental health professionals: A systematic review of empirical research .  Psychol Res Behav Manag . 2022;15:2599-2620. doi:10.2147/PRBM.S359382

Li F, Luo S, Mu W, et al. Effects of sources of social support and resilience on the mental health of different age groups during the COVID-19 pandemic .  BMC Psychiatry . 2021;21(1):16. doi:10.1186/s12888-020-03012-1

Babić R, Babić M, Rastović P, et al. Resilience in health and illness .  Psychiatr Danub . 2020;32(Suppl 2):226-232.

Lohner MS, Aprea C. The Resilience Journal: Exploring the potential of journal interventions to promote resilience in university students .  Front Psychol . 2021;12:702683. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2021.702683

Verduyn P, Lavrijsen S. Which emotions last longest and why: The role of event importance and rumination . Motiv Emot . 2015;39(1):119-127. doi:10.1007/s11031-014-9445-y

Levine P. Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma . Berkeley, CA: North Atlantic Books.

Brom D, Stokar Y, Lawi C, et al. Somatic experiencing for posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized controlled outcome study .  J Trauma Stress . 2017;30(3):304-312. doi:10.1002/jts.22189

Berceli D, Salmon M, Bonifas R, Ndefo N. Effects of self-induced unclassified therapeutic tremors on quality of life among non-professional caregivers: A pilot study .  Glob Adv Health Med . 2014;3(5):45-48. doi:10.7453/gahmj.2014.032

By Theodora Blanchfield, AMFT Theodora Blanchfield is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and mental health writer using her experiences to help others. She holds a master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University and is a board member of Still I Run, a non-profit for runners raising mental health awareness. Theodora has been published on sites including Women's Health, Bustle, Healthline, and more and quoted in sites including the New York Times, Shape, and Marie Claire.

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Dr. Tara Salay

Lilybridge Yoga

in Holistic Living , Mindset · February 10, 2023

How To Start A Self Healing Journey

How to start a self healing journey.

self healing journey

Self healing sounds great but where do you begin? Self healing will look different for everyone but regardless if you’re healing from something physical, mental, or emotional, a self healing journey will have some basic principles that carry through no matter what you are working on. 

Before we get into this post, I just want to remind you that a self healing journey does not mean that you disregard modern medicine, it just means that you’re going to take an active role in your healing process. Things like going to the doctor, going to therapy, and sometimes taking medication are all still important. The journey of self healing is in addition to these types of things. I say this because I think sometimes when people get into self healing, some may start to disregard modern medicine etc. and this is not what we should be doing. So just keep this in mind as we dive into the topic of self healing. 

4 Tips For Getting Started On Your Self Healing Journey

self healing journey

1. Become an active participant in your healing.

It’s common these days to be presented with a problem and to let other people or “things” fix it without being an active participant. So although things like going to the doctor and maybe taking medicine are important for you, it’s also important for you to take active steps in your health and healing in your everyday life.

For example, if you go to therapy every week but then just go back to your regular patterns when not in therapy, how much progress are you going to make? If you take medication to fix a health issue but then eat like crap, how much are you going to improve? In both cases, maybe you would make some improvements without doing anything additional, but imagine how much more you could improve if you were an active participant in the process. If you really worked on changing your thought patterns when outside of therapy or if you started eating a healthy and balanced diet, I bet you would be further along in your healing process than if you sat on the sidelines. 

When you’re an active participant in your healing, you can make much greater strides. So first thing in a self healing journey is to take an active role. This is your body and your mind so it’s important that you are there to work on your healing. 

2. Be open to heal.

Be open to heal…sounds simple but is something that many people struggle with. Sometimes we actually get comfortable having issues or challenges and we don’t want to open up to change. When we take on a self healing journey, we really have to be open and ready to heal. You have to want to heal and you have to believe  that it can happen. 

And being open to heal is going to look different for everyone. Maybe it means you’re totally “cured” of whatever ails you or maybe your symptoms are lessened or your quality of life is better. There’s no one end goal when it comes to self healing. 

I’ll use myself as an example. I have OCD and have had it since I was a child. A lot of my own self healing journey has been about my OCD, which back to my previous point, I still go to therapy for in addition to working on self healing…just a reminder! Anyway, my goal for self healing is not to “get rid of” my OCD as research has shown that people who have OCD do have differences in their brain chemistry. My brain is just naturally wired in a different way. Based on this fact, most likely I will always “have” OCD but just because I have it doesn’t mean it needs to control my life. Through my own self healing journey, I’m working on being able to live my life without my OCD constantly gripping at me. Between therapy and my own personal healing work, I’ve been achieving this goal and have seen incredible improvements in terms of my mental health. I share this with you so that you can make a goal that fits for you and so that you don’t feel like there has to be a specific outcome. 

In working with people with chronic pain , I often teach people to start with a smaller goal first in regards to self healing and then later on maybe create a larger goal of being pain free if that is where they want to go. Self healing is fluid so your goals will change. 

So after that long tangent, tip number two recap is to be open to healing and improving your quality of life. If you don’t think you can get better, self healing will be a real challenge. If you’re in the mindset of feeling like you’ll never be better, trust me I’ve been there too, then that’s your first step in your self healing journey, opening your mind to the possibility of improvement. 

3. Start to look past just the mind and body.

Yes the mind and body are important but we are more than just these two things. I look at the mind and body as tools for us to interact in this world we know. If you want to find true healing, you have to start to look deeper than these two parts of you. 

Self healing is the type of healing where you start to look deeper within yourself. You’re not just working on the physical body, you’re not just working on the mind, you’re working on a deeper part of your being, be it your spirit, your soul, your energy etc. We’re not disregarding the physical body or mind, but we are looking past these two parts of us at something deeper. 

In your journey, you need to begin to explore how the mind, body, and soul interact because the three are connected. What impacts your mind will impact your body and what impacts your body will impact your mind. The soul connects to both the mind and body so getting in touch with your soul, your spirit, your energy (whatever you want to call it) is vital to self healing. There isn’t one set way to do this and it will be an exploration to see what “ignites” your soul connection, but this is such an important part of self healing and this is the part that’s game changing. 

I’ve created a free holistic living checklist which outlines how you can start to care for your entire being, body, mind, AND soul. You can access it here: CLICK HERE FOR YOUR FREE HOLISTIC LIVING CHECKLIST!

4. Remember that a journey is rarely linear.

It’s unlikely that your self healing journey is going to be a smooth ride up. You’ll probably experience set backs or times of challenge, that is to be expected. The goal isn’t to constantly be feeling better 100% of the time. The goal is more about when you do dip down a little, you come back a little bit higher each time. Over time, the dip downs start to decrease and you don’t dip down as far or as often. So remember this on your journey. 

Something else to remember on your journey, we all experience obstacles and challenges in our lives. It doesn’t matter how “big” or “small” your specific challenge is, this is just a perception. If you feel something is a challenge or issue or obstacle, then it doesn’t matter if someone else may “have it worse” than you etc. This doesn’t make your problem any less important. Minimizing your struggles is of no use, your struggles are valid. I know the feeling of saying, “it could be so much worse,” which it probably could be and maybe this thought does help some people but in my experience, it just pushes you further away from healing because you’re disregarding how YOU feel. It doesn’t matter what others say or think, this is a SELF healing journey. 

self healing journey

There is no doubt that a self healing journey is going to look different for everyone. The common theme is that we’re looking deeper within the self and starting to see things differently. And this takes work and can be challenging! You have to put the work in to see the results, you have to challenge yourself and your typical behaviors or thought patterns. Self healing is making a change and we know change is not easy. This is why a self healing journey is so life changing. 

Self healing is of one of those terms that I don’t think you can fully understand until you go through it. It’s also a continuing journey because there are always going to be improvements we can make but I’ll tell you, it’s totally worth it. 

I know in this post I didn’t lay out for you exactly what to do, but that’s because this journey is so personal. Find what helps you connect deeper within yourself be it meditation, yoga , journaling, reading books on self improvement, whatever it is, there isn’t one set way. If you do like yoga though, I’ll link below a yoga flow for self healing that I’ve created. Remember to enjoy the journey!

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Emotional Self-Healing: How to Start Your Powerful Journey Today

Personal Development

emotional self-healing journey

E ach person is different when it comes to emotional pain and trauma. Some elements, such as death, affect all of us similarly, but even within that context, our reactions and the way we feel and deal with them are different. Self-healing is a process through which you acknowledge the emotional pain and trauma in your life and figure out a way to stop it from holding you back. Unlike a band-aid that can stop the bleeding and eventually the scar will go away, emotional pain and trauma is a long and slow process, and its appropriate “band-aid” doesn’t exist in a one-size-fits-all type of box. This article explores the concept of self-healing and proposes a few ways in which you can start your self-healing journey today.

What Is Emotional Pain

In a 2011 article published in the Journal of Loss and Trauma , researchers Esther Meerwijk and Sandra Weiss asserted that “a generally accepted understanding and clear definition of what is constituted by psychological pain do not exist.”

It’s an interesting study that explains the difficulty of defining emotional pain in a cohesive, easy-to-understand manner.

In the end, the authors do provide their view on a unified definition that states that “[…] psychological pain is being defined as a lasting, unsustainable, and unpleasant feeling resulting from the negative appraisal of an inability or deficiency of the self.”

Although it starts to sound a little easier to understand, it’s still far from a set of checkboxes that would answer the question, am I in emotional pain or not.

Since defining emotional pain is complex, dealing with emotional pain and trauma is equally challenging. You can’t truly solve a puzzle if you cannot describe the puzzle and how it works. Emotional pain is one of those puzzles because when you feel it, you know it’s there. But if someone asks you to describe it, you are lost for words.

In an article on emotional pain , Dr. Steven Stosny, Ph.D., explains that when you dwell on the causes of emotional pain, you will most likely exacerbate it rather than alleviate it.

It’s normal to think that if you were to find the cause of your emotional pain and thus assign the blame to that cause, the emotional pain would go away. However, self-healing doesn’t work that way. The more you attempt to cast the fault, the more you must shine a light on the pain and make it bigger. That’s the opposite of a self-healing journey and will lead to a life of resentment while the trauma persists.

depression anxiety emotional pain

How Emotional Pain Affects Us

When you suffer from emotional trauma, there’s little outside evidence about what is happening on the inside. That’s why often, people around you might brush off your emotional pain, which will make you feel even worse.

The truth is that emotional pain is not only just as real as physical pain, but many times it’s much more powerful and much more damaging.

The difference to physical pain is the clear answer to where and why. If your shoulder hurts, you get an X-ray. If the X-Ray reveals a tear, the doctor will give you an injection and immobilize your arm for a while. While both of those things will hurt, there is a plan in place to eventually remove the pain and make it all better.

With emotional pain, the cause is often unclear. With the unclear cause, the path to “all better” is not only foggy; it doesn’t even exist.

That lack of direction as to how to deal with emotional pain will only make the pain more prevalent and add a layer of helplessness to it.

When those kinds of feelings inhabit you, the mental pain will often translate into physical pain. Dizziness, headache, upset stomach, nausea, stiff muscles—those are just a few types of physical psychosomatic reactions in which emotional pain manifests in your body.

On top of that, emotional pain changes your behavior and attitude. You may find yourself angry , overeating, over-drinking, isolating or even self-harming.

This cocktail of feelings and reactions turns into an emotional tornado that keeps spinning, and spinning, and spinning. So, the question becomes, how can you get out of it?

eye tear emotional pain

What is Self Healing?

Self-healing is a process by which you work toward recovering from emotional pain and trauma. Although the “self” in the name is a driving force, that doesn’t mean that you must do it alone.

The self implies strong self-motivation and self-discipline , but the self-healing journey is often best accomplished alongside a supportive group. That group can be your family, friends, or professional help.

One crucial aspect of this journey is self-awareness . As in the example above, if you were not to feel the pain in your shoulder, you’d never get to the doctor, and your shoulder might remain damaged for good. Similarly, when it comes to emotional pain and suffering, you must at least be aware that it exists before you can do something about it.

Unluckily, that’s a tricky thing to do. Luckily, though, there’s a process in place that can get you there.

rain drops window sadness

6 Stages of Self-Healing

As the complexity of emotional pain and trauma are apparent by now, self-healing is not straightforward. Although putting down six stages sounds simple enough, the reality is a lot more convoluted.

The stages are not an exact science; they’re not a computer program that you can run linearly for a determinate time. Instead, these stages happen differently for different people. They can last longer or shorter; they might go in this order or out of order.

The goal of the stages is to bring forward the awareness of a “possible” road to self-healing. Each person will create their own path using their understanding of where they are and where they want to be. It’s like a map, but everyone will approach it in their own way.

The idea here is to begin the self-healing process, which will scar the emotional pain and eventually remove the scar tissue. Once that has been at least partially removed, there will be new space for personal change and transformation, no longer shadowed by the effects of the trauma. The ultimate goal for that is achieving deep inner peace.

When grief sets in and transforms into long-lasting emotional pain resulting from trauma, your first reaction is to deny it. That is not uncommon, and it applies to almost everything that gives us discomfort. The first reaction is to pretend it’s not there in hopes that it might, in fact, not be real and it will go away.

Some people never leave this stage and spend their entire lives stuck in denial. They might deny that an abusive relationship exists because there can’t be any pain if it doesn’t.

Self-awareness and getting a sense of self-esteem is a way for people to start getting out of denial. By honestly examining what you fear might happen should you stop denying, you begin to open the door for leaving this stage.

When you no longer deny reality and understand that something is genuinely happening to you, the next thing that usually follows is anger. “Why me?” “Why is this happening?” “How can they let this happen to me?”

Those are questions that you ask in anger because you are upset at your suffering. Anger can manifest outwardly toward others or inwardly toward yourself. You might become vicious with other people, or you might self-harm.

Whereas anger is an essential step in the self-healing journey, spending too much time in anger might result in long-term resentment. The critical part is observing the anger, expressing it healthily, but being prepared to let go of it.

The next usual stage is bargaining, which is your way of trying to find a quick fix. It’s an “if only” kind of solution.

“If I do this, maybe he won’t do that, and so I won’t feel this way anymore.”

“If you come to counseling with me, I won’t file for divorce.”

“I only need to be lucky this one time, and things will turn around.”

“Please, God, if you can, just give her one more month.”

Bargaining is an attempt to regain control that has been lost. We often feel that nothing comes for free, so if we offer something or invoke something, we might get back an alleviation of pain.

You might find yourself bargaining for love, time with a loved one, financial security, or so many other things. This transitory natural stage provides a temporary escape out of denial and anger while the person in pain can adjust to the reality that is starting to set in.

Depression sounds like it could be one of the effects of emotional pain. To some extent, that’s true, but in the context of your self-healing journey, depression signals the beginning of acceptance. On the cusp of acceptance, there’s still resistance; you’re not yet entirely over the hurdle, but you’re close.

During this time, some of the effects of emotional pain exacerbate. You may feel intense sadness, difficulty sleeping, loss of motivation, inability to focus, and a general feeling of loss of self-worth.

Although the depression stage sometimes feels like it will last forever and become the ultimate end-point to that journey, it is also a transitory yet necessary phase.

At this stage, it’s essential to have a trusted group with whom you can feel comfortable expressing your feelings and discussing them without judgment.

It’s not easy to predict how long the depression stage will last, but by practicing daily feeling and expressing your emotions, you can ensure a smoother transition out of it.

The acceptance stage marks the point when you finally understand and accept the reality of the pain or trauma, and that reality cannot change. It means that you have been able to detach yourself from the claws of the past and everything that you regret about it. Similarly, the future doesn’t scare you anymore, and you are ready to move forward.

Note that acceptance doesn’t mean that you are “okay” with the loss, although its name might suggest it. You may never be “okay” with your mother not being alive or your spouse cheating on you. What matters is that you accept those realities for what they are, and you can move on without being paralyzed by their mere existence.

Acceptance is your ability to learn how to live with the present and how the present looks like. It is a process, though, and not the means to an end.

Forgiveness

Last but not least is forgiveness. Although acceptance gives you the freedom you need to unclench yourself from the claws of emotional pain and gain the wings you need to fly, resentment toward the cause of the pain might not disappear completely.

Think about a spouse who abused you or a man who hurt someone you love. Although you have accepted the reality, you may still hold a grudge toward those people.

When you truly forgive, you finally free yourself. That freedom is a bonus on your self-healing journey because it genuinely seals the grip that the person or event has on you.

Note that forgiveness cannot happen until you remove yourself from the cause of emotional pain and you go through the different stages of grief.

In other words, don’t mistake forgiveness for bargaining.

“I’ll forgive him and give him another chance. He promised it wouldn’t happen.” That’s not true forgiveness; it’s just another way of negotiating your emotions and giving control away.

sunset man landscape

Begin Your Self-Healing Journey

Emotional pain is one of the most difficult ailments that can affect you, and it’s extremely difficult to defeat. That’s mainly because ordinarily, you might not even be aware that it happened. You feel the effects but understand none of the causes.

That not only creates frustration and additional anxiety, it also blocks your way to breaking its chains.

Therefore, understanding the self-healing journey and going through those stages is critical for removing yourself from that emotional pain and moving on with your life.

It’s a tough and challenging road, but one that, once taken, will drive you to freedom .

Other Resources on Self-Healing

  • 7 Ways to Heal Your Body by Using the Power of Your Mind, Backed by Science
  • 10 Tips for Emotional Healing
  • How To Emotionally Heal Yourself?
  • Healing: 5 Steps To Transforming Emotional Pain

Now, before you go, I have…

3 Questions For You

  • Are you currently living with emotional pain or trauma?
  • Do you recognize yourself in any of the six stages of dealing with emotional pain?
  • If you’ve defeated emotional pain before, how do you feel now?

Please share your answers in the comments below. Sharing knowledge helps us all improve and get better!

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Hi there! I’m Iulian, and I want to thank you for reading my article. There’s a lot more if you stick around. I write about personal development, productivity, fiction writing, and more. Also, I’ve created Self-Growth Journey , a free program that helps you get unstuck and create the beautiful life you deserve. Enjoy!

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Lilian, I am ever so grateful this is amazing I am going to put you down as my nb1 on my social media’s you really put my mind at ease. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU,, I wish you nothing but the best in life ??

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  • Everything About The Healing Journey: 30+ Tips for Different Healing Journeys (Trauma, Grief, Weight-Loss, Heartbreak & Sexual Healing)

The Healing Journey is a psycho-spiritual process of self-discovery that allows us to develop a deeper self-awareness and understanding of the world around us.

Healing is an individual process of becoming whole again and every journey is unique.

Understand that no one’s journey has a quick fix. This is a process that takes lots of time and patience.

What is a Healing Journey?

The 4 Stages of a Healing Journey

There are four stages of the healing journey:

Awakening  – Asking critical questions to find out “who you are”, or more correctly “What do I want?” and “Why?”. In many ways, you are becoming more construct-aware of Reality.

Healing  – The system you grew up in wasn’t healthy for your being or allowing your complete being to exist. Now you will reintegrate the parts of yourself that were left behind.

Rebirth  – You are rebuilding yourself based on what you’ve learned during your healing. You are now stronger, more whole, and have earned confidence from going through the life journey you’ve experienced.

Embodiment  – Now you have more practical wisdom that you will implement in your life and move forward with greater understanding of your Self and the World.

Why is the Healing Journey Important?

The Healing Journey is important because it brings more spiritual awareness to the individual’s life, allowing for emotional and mental growth. This journey allows you to move forward from the past, while letting the past be done with you.

By going through this journey we become more egoically mature, stronger, more whole, due to earned confidence. We also learn new ways to cope with our stresses and having a better inner point of reference to view the situations life subjects us to.

Why is the Healing Journey Important

How Do I Start My Healing Journey?

Here are tips on how to start your healing journey:

Recognize The Need For Healing –  Admitting that you have a problem is always the first step. You can’t do this is you are always distracting yourself from your emotions, thoughts, and inner pain. This can be called “denial” and it’s not a strength—it’s a weaknesses. Vulnerability is strength.

Seek Support –  The healing journey is a lonely path, but it doesn’t always have to be. Talk to trusted friends, therapists, or family members.

Practice Self-Care –  You need a stable environment without negative and abuse factors in order to practice self-care. This gives your psyche a place to process any pain, both actively and passively. Take the time to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This involves eating healthy foods, getting fresh air, adequate sleep, meditation, and so on.

Set Realistic Goals –  Don’t expect to heal overnight, you can’t rush the process. But set milestones to aim for and take pride in every step you take towards your goals.

Practice Forgiveness –  Forgive yourself for your own mistakes, you didn’t know any better anyways and that’s not your fault. You can also try forgiving others who have hurt you. This way you don’t hang onto anger and resentment that arrests your spiritual and emotional development.

Embrace Your Emotions –  It’s important that you allows yourself feel all of your emotions so you can digest and process the sadness, anger, frustration, and fear. It’s by acknowledging your emotions and allowing yourself to observe them until they naturally pass, that you process and heal.

Taking Action –  Seek help, join a support group, engage in self-care, pursue your goals, consult your inner resources, and keep moving forward while giving yourself the time to pause and process the past so you can resume moving forward.

What is the Sexual Healing Journey?

The sexual healing journey is a process aimed at overcoming the internal struggles and challenges related to one’s own sexuality. This sexual healing can help overcome traumas, insecurities, and other negative beliefs that we have tied to our sexuality, in order to attain a more fulfilling sex life.

Many times this involves healing and overcoming the internal struggles related to religious conditioning, cultural attitudes, past experiences, and external expectations. Through sexual healing you will break down these barriers and learn to embrace a healthy sexuality.

The following are tips for your sexual healing journey:

Acknowledge the trauma.  Admitting that you’ve gone through a distressing event and it has left you hurt is crucial. You can’t fix a problem until you admit that you have a problem.

Seek support.  This helps you feel less alone while also being provided much needed support to help cope with the trauma.

Practice self-care.  This involves getting sleep, eating well, exercise, and so on.

Find meaning.  By giving your suffering meaning, you are able to empower yourself by developing a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Learn from a trusted resource.  If you are interested in exploring your sexuality, check out the shadow play blog  here .

What Are Things You Do On Your Healing Journey

What Are Things You Do On Your Healing Journey?

Here are things to do on your healing journey:

Set Boundaries –  By establishing boundaries you are able to protect your emotional and spiritual well-being. This includes saying no to what doesn’t serve you, cutting off toxic people from your life, staying away from awful situations, and giving time to yourself when you need it.

Find Your Inner Strength –  All inner journeys demand perserverance and resilience. Taking the time to collect yourself and gathering your inner resources can help you face the challenges you will face on your healing journey.

Embrace gratitude.  Gratitude is how you cultivate a sense of abundance and positivity in your life. In fact, make a list of 100 things you feel make life worth living, you may be surprised at what are the things you appreciate about life.

Learn new coping skills.  Examples of coping skills for self-soothing include mindfulness, journaling, creative expression, etc.

Embrace spirituality –  By connecting to a higher power through spiritual practices help cultivate an inner sense of peace. It’s up to you to find the practices that best resonate with you.

How is Losing Weight a Healing Journey

Here are three aspects for losing weight a healing journey:

Physical Healing –  Losing weight is its own physical healing. This is because reducing weight can improve health, lower blood pressure, improve heart health, etc. On top of this, you can also improve your own body image and self-confidence, while cultivating a healthier lifestyle.

Emotional Healing –  Weight loss can also be a journey of emotional healing. This is because a lot of emotional stress can come from feeling overweight. By improving your relationship with food you will gain a better sense of self-control.

Spiritual Healing –  By holding a healthy weight you may gain a sense of inner peace, balance, and harmony. This is because you have earned an accurate assessment of how people didn’t look at you so much differently with a few pounds on you.

What is The Healing Journey Through Grief

What is The Healing Journey Through Grief?

Grief is a very human experience that happens after a huge loss, such as the end of a relationship, the death of a loved one, or a major life change.

Understand that grieving is complicated and there is no “right” way to grieve.

It is through grieving that we work through our feelings of loss and find meaning in our losses and suffering.

The Stages of Grief

The following are the stages of grief:

These stages are not in any specific order, but they are what you can expect to experience during your healing journey through grief.

The following are tips for your healing journey through grief:

Move forward.  When the time is right, you will be reborn and your bones with be stronger than before. But don’t attempt to move forward too soon. Just because you are done with the past doesn’t mean it’s done with you. Give yourself all the time you need and be patient with yourself.

How Long Does A Healing Journey Last?

The length of a healing journey varies from person to person. Depending on how bad is the hurt, some wounds can be healed quickly while others can take months or even years. There is no definite timeline because traumas are different and inner constitutions are different.

Understand that this will not be a straightforward process. There are hormonal and chemical processes in your body that are going against you. It’s okay to have setbacks, but your healing demands you move forward and let go of what no longer serves you.

The following are factors that affect how long a healing journey lasts:

The Severity of the Wound  is one of the more significant factors that impact the length of recovery. Extreme trauma and abuse will take longer than anything closer to the “white lie” side of the betrayal spectrum.

The Type of Wound  refers to whether the damage is physical, emotional, or spiritual. Emotional wounds make you feel bad about yourself. Spiritual wounds make you feel bad about humanity and the world.

The Individual’s Support System  can help speed up the healing process depending how well integrated and prepared both you and your wounded healer are.

The Individual’s WIllingness to Heal  is the most important factor because you can’t heal until you admit that you need healing.

How Long Does A Healing Journey Last

How To Start A Spiritual Healing Journey Within Yourself

The following are steps on how to start a spiritual healing journey within yourself:

Connect with your inner self.  This means taking time to introspect and reflect on your inner thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. You can explore these deeper parts of yourself via journaling, meditating, etc.

Explore your beliefs and values.  By exploring your beliefs and values, you can reevaluate and make the changes necessary to connect to a higher power.

Practice mindfulness.  Being present and fully in the moment helps build self-awareness and awareness of the world around you. Breathwork, meditation, and activities like this help cultivate mindfulness.

Find a spiritual practice.  By connecting to a higer power through spiritual practices help cultivate an inner sense of peace. It’s up to you to find the practices that best resonate with you.

Seek out a community.  Connecting with others is a powerful way to move forward on your spiritual healing journey. Consider communities through spiritual groups, religious institutions, and other online communities.

Let go of negativity.  Negativity prevents you from connecting with a higher power. This is why you want to practice forgiveness, focus on the positives, and release resentment.

  • How Do You Start Your Healing Journey Alone After a Breakup?
  • 14 Tips For A Peaceful Healing Journey from Trauma (w/ Spirituality & God)

Recommended Resources

A Light Among Shadows  is a guide to self-love and being that helps you overcome negative self-talk, instill genuine self-acceptance, and overcome self-hate and resentment by making sense of people’s level of consciousness and your spirituality.

Shadow Work for Beginners Series  helps you beat negative patterns and beliefs, integrate your shadow, heal your inner child, reclaim your projections, build emotional maturity, and take back your life by becoming whole.

Shadow Work for Relationship Series helps you heal your attachment style, navigate relationship issues, and build a healthy, mature relationship.

Advanced Shadow Work is an ongoing publication with continued in-depth insight and practical advice you won’t find anywhere else on the internet for practicing shadow work, self-awareness, inner healing, spiritual development, and more!

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Book of Shadows   (incl. Shadow Work Journal)  is your own special journal that you fill up with your energetic intentions as you scribe your own inner practices to be passed down to others.

Subliminal Bundle  uses different hypnosis tracks to subconsciously improve your health, love life, motivation, self-love and much more.

These products are not affiliate links, we do not get a commission when you purchase these tools. We are supportive of our partnership with Sinful Goods for offering small websites a chance to promote their brands.

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What is an emotional healing journey and why and how to start one

Courtney Barber

Written by Courtney Barber

Published: Feb 6, 2024

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Geralyn Dexter

What is an emotional healing journey and why and how to start one

Many people struggle with mental health or emotional challenges. Issues like depression , trauma, loss, chronic stress, and debilitating anxiety can seem insurmountable. Research suggests that moving through a healing journey is best done by developing trusting, positive relationships, and reframing emotional burdens with a focus on the ability to respond. So, what defines a healing journey? 

In this article, we cover:

  • What a healing journey is

Reasons to start an emotional healing journey

  • How to start an emotional healing journey
  • The stages of emotional healing

What to expect from your emotional healing journey

  • How long emotional healing takes
  • Getting started

What is a healing journey?

While the term healing journey has a spiritual or metaphysical context for some, here we explore the concept of the emotional healing journey in the context of emotional well-being.

An emotional healing journey is a progression from emotional distress to increased overall emotional well-being. An emotional healing journey is different from a mental health or substance use recovery journey, but it can occur at the same time as mental health or substance use recovery. 

Emotional healing may be possible for some without using clinical treatment as a mode of healing, but many benefit from mental health counseling as part of an emotional healing journey. Talk to your healthcare provider about what’s appropriate for you. 

The healing journey is a process of transformation. There may be some growing pains. (Remember that a qualified clinical therapist can help with these feelings.) At the end of the journey, we’re not who we began as. We feel more at peace, more resolved, and whole.

You can start a healing journey for many reasons. Challenges like trauma, abuse, sexual violation, chronic illness or pain, heartbreak, mental health issues, or loss can feel almost unbearable at times. Emotional trauma can bring us to a crossroads where we have to decide how to proceed, whether toward self-destruction and despair or emotional growth and healing. 

For a survivor of emotional trauma, healing can take time. During this healing process, it’s essential to be patient with yourself. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique. There will be ups and downs along the way, but each challenge is an opportunity for growth. 

A licensed mental health professional can help you navigate this journey. If you need support, talk to your healthcare provider and get information on the type of therapist you need . 

How do you start an emotional healing journey?

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or simply seeking personal growth, embarking on an emotional healing journey can move you into deeper knowledge and understanding of yourself. An emotional healing journey is a process of finding ways to feel better, both physically and mentally. It’s like starting down a path toward personal growth and self-discovery. But where do you begin? 

The first step is to recognize that you need help. Recognizing that you’re unhappy, distressed, or burned out requires radical honesty but is a critical step toward opening your mind to positive change. Sometimes, we all need a little support and guidance from others. 

Seeking therapy or talking to a trusted healthcare provider can be a great starting point. They can provide you with strategies, tools, and resources to help you navigate your emotions and thoughts. 

What are the stages of emotional healing?

One of the most important aspects of an emotional healing journey is being honest with yourself. Take time to reflect on your emotions and thoughts. And don’t shy away from facing the difficult parts of your past. Key stages of the healing process include:

  • Acceptance. Realizing that healing is needed. This starts with awareness, and it can take time.
  • Self-assessment. Beginning to assess the past and how it’s impacting you today.
  • Hope. Opening up to support from the right people and systems. 
  • Vulnerability. As you begin therapy, journaling, meditation, or other internal work, you may feel uncomfortable feelings like sadness, grief, or anger.
  • Healing. Beginning to understand which tools and skills can add health and vitality to your daily life.
  • Strengthening support systems. As you do your healing work, you may release old connections and build new connections that more closely align with self-care and wellness. 

Healing isn’t just about addressing the mental and emotional aspects. It also involves taking care of your physical body. Engage in activities that make you feel good physically, such as exercising, eating nutritious food, and getting enough rest. Your mind and body are interconnected, so nurturing one positively impacts the other.

Throughout your healing journey, it’s important to build a support system. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you. They can include a therapist, friends, family members, or even support groups where you can share your experiences and learn from others.

Your mental healthcare provider will provide you with the tools and support you need to reinforce your unique therapy goals . Some of these tools may include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) , positive or strength-based coping tools, or medication support. 

The work of emotional healing can feel messy at first. Sometimes, it feels worse before you start to experience the positive benefits of self-healing. 

When you’ve experienced abusive situations, assault, trauma, or dangerous encounters, the wounds can run deep. You may feel anxious, overwhelmed, and even numb at times. Have hope, though, many people have traveled a road toward mental health recovery or emotional healing and found peace after trauma, loss, or chaos. Patience and dedication to the process are important. And if you’re not in therapy, consider getting professional help if you feel overwhelmed. 

As you learn to set healthy boundaries for yourself, you create a safe emotional space where you can heal and grow. This may involve setting limits on certain relationships or situations that cause you distress. Putting your well-being first lets you truly take care of yourself. 

Your therapist will help you figure out how to create a healthy support system that supports creating a safe emotional space, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care. 

How long does emotional healing take?

You may be wondering, how long until therapy works ? Although you may want to snap your fingers and complete the process, therapy takes time to have a real impact. And if you have a mental health diagnosis, therapy outcomes, and timelines will vary depending on your level of need and the complexity of your situation. 

While you may get some relief from just a session or two, it’s more likely to take some time to develop rapport with your therapist and to work through deeper issues in therapy. Research indicates that it takes 15 to 20 sessions for about half of mental therapy clients to experience relief. And it’s normal to feel a little better or worse at different times during this process.

What can help? It’s important to find a therapist that you trust. Try to choose a clinician you feel at ease with. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship is a major factor in successful outcomes. 

Licensed providers on Klarity provide personalized treatment. Find a provider that matches your needs and preferences.

Start your healing journey

If you’re thinking of beginning an emotional healing journey, get the support you deserve. Healthcare providers, safe and trusted family and friends, and a licensed mental health therapist can, together, create a supportive safety net as you stretch, grow, and heal. 

To get started, check out Klarity to find a therapist and secure an appointment within 48 hours. The first step can be scary, but don’t let that stop you. Your new life is waiting on the other side of your healing journey. 

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health.

If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.

How we reviewed this article: This article goes through rigorous fact-checking by a team of medical reviewers. Reviewers are trained medical professionals who ensure each article contains the most up-to-date information, and that medical details have been correctly interpreted by the author.

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This topic is part of the Finding Guidance stage of the Spiritual Wanderer's Journey

Deep Self-Healing (on a Budget) 9+ Tips!

by Aletheia · Updated: Sep 21, 2024 · 21 Comments

Image of a woman holding a fern symbolic of self-healing through ecotherapy

So you’re broke , or have low income , or don’t have much cash to spare – and yet you’ve realized how crucial it is to heal on a physical, mental, emotional, and/or spiritual level.

What do you do? 

Well my friends, I know exactly what this is like , and let me tell you, I can relate to that sense of frustration of wanting to commit to deeper healing, and yet being asked to give over many hundreds – if not thousands – of dollars to begin the process (which is kind of annoying and often exploitative if you ask me!).

spiritual wanderer course image

While it’s reasonable to want to give an “ energy exchange ” (in this case, money for someone’s time and effort), sometimes, that is simply inaccessible to us or perhaps not in alignment with our personal values. 

In this simple article, I’m going to share with you some free or low-cost ways to practice deep self-healing based on my own experience and research.

But firstly, let’s define what exactly ‘self-healing’ means.

Table of contents

What is self-healing, self-healing is a primal need (not a “new age” trend), physical self-healing, emotional/mental self-healing, spiritual self-healing.

Image of a hand holding roses symbolic of self-healing

Self-healing is the practice of self-guided physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual healing. When we go on a self-healing journey, our goal is to soothe, dissolve, or remedy the unresolved wounds and traumas that are buried within us. 

The goal of self-healing is to always access a greater level of physical vitality, inner peace , happiness, confidence, harmonious relationships, life satisfaction, and spiritual fulfilment. 

Image of a woman jumping for joy at sunset in front of the beach

While skeptics of the healing and wellness industry are quick to label any inclination to self-heal as “ new age ” fluff, the need to heal is actually deeply rooted within us.

As professor Louis G. Herman writes ,

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Just as when we cut our finger, the skin automatically starts a process of self-healing and making whole, so the larger psyche pushes into consciousness what is struggling to be recognized and integrated in the interests of growth and health.

In other words, when the psyche, when the Soul senses that something is “off” within us, it will make an attempt to heal itself (just like skin does after it’s cut).

Your drive to self-heal is something to be celebrated, honored, and respected – don’t let anyone try to convince you otherwise. 

You have the right to self-heal!

Deep Self-Healing on a Budget: 9+ Tips and Practices

Image of a relaxing candle

Below, I’m going to break down different categories of healing, as well as a few recommendations in each area that are either totally free or low-cost:

Image of hands reaching through a sunbeam

(The following physical self-healing methods aren’t listed in any specific order of importance, excluding the first one, which in my opinion takes precedence.) 

1. Healing the nervous system

Healing at the level of the nervous system is like the trunk of the tree: all other branches of physical healing go back to it in one form or another. And it’s for this reason that I’ve included it first.

While there are many expensive one-to-one sessions and hugely costly courses out there to help you heal at the nervous system level (where trauma is stored), there are also a few budget-friendly alternatives:

  • Going to your local library to request a book on nervous system healing (many libraries also have free apps which make this process easier) – FREE
  • Getting a free trial (usually 30 days) for a reading platform like Scribd (which is basically like a library where you can borrow as many books as you like per month for a low fee), and searching for books on the nervous system – FREE/LOW-COST
  • Searching Google for “nervous system healing” (there are some good websites and articles out there which offer free resources such as audio exercises) – FREE
  • Searching YouTube for “ vagus nerve exercises ” and when you find a channel you like, watch as many videos of theirs as you can and take notes – FREE

Some book recommendations for nervous system healing:

  • “The Body Keeps Score ” by Bessel Van Der Kolk
  • “ When the Body Says No ” by Gabor Mate 
  • “ Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma ” by Peter A. Levine
  • “ Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve ” by Stanley Rosenbery 
  • “ Somatic Psychotherapy Toolbox ” by Manuela Mischke-Reeds

There are many other books out there, but these are a few great ones to start with (but don’t feel like you have to read them all!). 

  • Yoga classes can be pretty damn expensive. Some places that often offer cheaper yoga classes are YMCAs, community centers, and gyms. – LOW-COST
  • Search for classes online – I’m sure you’ve done at least one yoga class online before on YouTube (if not, there’s no shortage of instructors). There are also lower cost yoga apps and subscriptions which can help you stay more accountable. – FREE/LOW-COST
  • Buy in bulk. Sometimes yoga teachers/studios offer substantial discounts for buying a bulk number of classes. Just be sure to use all of them, otherwise you’ll be wasting more money than saving! – LOW-COST

3. Massage Therapy

  • Instead of paying for an expensive massage, ask a loved one to give you a massage (this can be an “if you rub my back, I’ll rub yours” scenario). – FREE
  • Use an old tennis ball you have to relieve tight knots (this is a myofascial release method). – FREE
  • Opt for a shorter massage, such as a 15 minute or 30 minute one, as opposed to a full length one. You can also sign up to a local massage therapists newsletter (if they have a website) or follow their social media page – often discounts or special deals will be offered a few times a year. – LOW COST
  • Search an online market place (such as Craigslist, Facebook marketplace, etc.) for massage tools that people are giving away for low amounts of money. Just be wary of electrical massagers and ensure they work properly before committing to buy! – LOW COST
  • As electric massagers can be expensive, look up “manual massagers” on whatever online shopping platforms you prefer, or go have a look in store. Manual massagers are much less likely to malfunction and often last a lot longer, so are cost-effective. – LOW COST

Other Free or Low-Cost Ideas:

  • Going outside and getting more sunlight – FREE
  • Cleaning up what you eat, removing processed foods, and eating more wholefoods – LOW-COST (low cost if you buy at farmer markets, some online subscriptions, and/or save money by cutting out processed/packaged foods and replace them with more simple alternatives like fruit)
  • Exercising more by jogging or taking walks in your neighborhood – FREE
  • Practicing breathwork (there are many free breathwork exercises which you can find online) – FREE

If you have any more suggestions or recommendations, please leave them in the comments!

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Image of a person holding a glowing electric heart symbolic of self-healing

As the heart and mind are so closely linked, I’ve put them together in this section. 

Here are some recommendations in no particular order:

1.Journaling

Journaling is one of the deepest, most accessible, and beneficial self-healing tools in existence. 

You can opt to go paper-free and use your phone (and a secure app or platform which is password-protected like Google Drive or Penzu ), or buy a cheap journal/diary from your local two dollar store or in the stationary isle of your local super market.

There are also many amazing guided journals and workbooks available at an affordable price out there. If you can’t afford therapy or costly self-healing courses that run in the hundreds (or thousands) of dollars, journaling is a wonderful alternative. 

When I had no one to turn to in my younger years, journaling was a life-saver that helped me to introspect, process my feelings, and see my life from a bigger perspective.

For this reason, I recommend checking out three of the low-cost, highly rated guided journals I’ve co-created through the past few years. These are perfect for beginning the journey of emotional and mental self-healing:

  • Self-Love Journal – LOW COST
  • Inner Child Journal – LOW COST
  • Shadow Work Journal – LOW COST
  • Shadow Self Workbook – FREE (if you want a “sample”)

2. Mirror Work

Mirror work is one of the most intimate, immediate, and deeply impacting forms of emotional self-healing that I’ve come across, period. One of the best things about this practice is that … you guess it, it’s totally FREE!

I credit mirror work with helping me to heal old self-aggression wounds and infuse more self-love and acceptance into my life. In fact, mirror work is so vital that I practice it each and every day – and have done so for about the past couple of years.

All you need when it comes to mirror work is a mirror, some privacy, and perhaps a journal if you want to record your discoveries. I also like to have an affirmation or two on hand such as, “You are doing so well, good job!” “It’s okay to feel sad, I’m there for you,” and so on. (I like to talk to myself in second person.)

For more guidance on how to practice mirror work, see my free guide entitled, “ How to Practice Mirror Work (7 Step Guide) .”

3. Self-Study (or ‘Didacticism’)

Self-directed learning is a huge part of emotional and mental self-healing. In fact, this whole website is based on the premise that self-study is a crucial part of our psychospiritual wellbeing. 

(By the way, if you enjoy this article and would like to benefit more from all the free guides and spiritual resources we’ve offered since 2012, you might like to subscribe for a weekly dose of spiritual guidance and inspiration!)

According to this website, didacticism can be defined in the following way:

Didacticism is a term that refers to a particular philosophy in art and literature that emphasizes the idea that different forms of art and literature ought to convey information and instructions, along with pleasure and entertainment.

That’s what this Soul-centered website – and many other websites out there – offer.

Inner Work Journals Bundle cover image

If you prefer self-study in the form of books or courses, some free or low-cost ideas include the following:

  • Depending on what you’re interested in learning about, there are some free or low-cost course websites out there such as Coursera, Udemy, TedEd, and so on. (Simply type in “best free online education websites” in your internet search browser.) – FREE / LOW-COST
  • YouTube is always a wonderful resource when it comes to learning new topics (albeit in a generally surface-level way). – FREE
  • Podcasts – there are quite a few free apps that allow you to listen to podcasts. Some include Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Audible , and so on. What I love about podcasts is that you can listen to them anywhere without the distracting video element! – FREE 
  • The library is a great way to take out books and audiobooks free of charge. Most libraries even allow you to request any book you want (however, usually there is a longer waiting period). In another lifetime, I studied to be a librarian (however, decided to do this website/work instead!), so I have fond memories of the library – it’s also a great place to go so that your self-study doesn’t feel so isolating. – FREE
  • A couple of our low-cost ebooks that you might be interested in are our “ The Spiritual Awakening Process ” and “ The Power of Solitude ” ebooks. – LOW-COST
  • Affirmations are beautiful, sweet, and simple ways of reprogramming old core beliefs that keep you stuck in cycles of pain. This is a wonderful free and robust practice that can be carried with you anywhere. I recommend reading my “ 101+ Morning Affirmations For Anxiety & Depression Sufferers ” guide for some inspiration! – FREE
  • Tarot and oracle cards are a wonderful tool in your self-healing box. There are many affordable decks out there (but be mindful that one deck is plenty – no need to fall into a trap that I’ve fallen into, which is collecting too many of them, aka. the seductive allure of spiritual materialism !). The classic Rider Tarot Deck is fairly affordable and there’s also the option of downloading tarot or oracle apps on your phone if you prefer one that’s more portable. There are also a few printable decks out there if you’re a crafty person. You can read more about oracle and tarot cards for inner work in my free guide. – LOW COST

the journey self healing

What does ‘spiritual self-healing’ mean? At an Absolute level, we are all Whole – it is just the mind that is in a state of fragmentation.

Spiritual self-healing, therefore, points to spiritual methods that help us to feel better by reminding us of our interconnectedness, Oneness , and greater purpose in life. 

Spiritual self-healing methods (as well as all other forms of self-healing in this article) are a big part of the spiritual awakening journey.

1. Creativity and Art

Creativity comes from the heart and Soul, and as such, it’s a vibrant spiritual self-healing method.

Some free or low-cost ideas include:

  • Get your art materials from a local two dollar store, or bargain/discount shop. You’ll be surprised by what you find! – LOW COST
  • Search around your house for materials that you already have such as colored pencils, scraps of paper, magazines, glue, pastels, string, and other quirky objects that can be used in your artwork. – LOW COST
  • Forage in nature for items you can creatively use, such as leaves, acorns, shells, stones, sticks, shells, sand, and so on. Just make sure that you’re being respectful to the surrounding environment. – FREE
  • Download an art or creativity app on your phone, just search for “art app” or “creativity app.” – FREE / LOW-COST

Note : To make your art truly healing, make sure you always do it intentionally . In other words, target your creation process toward some aspect of your life that you struggle with, for example, processing grief, accessing your inner power, discovering your life purpose, letting go of old wounding , and so on.

2. Ecotherapy 

Nature is such a beautiful and enriching way to reconnect with your Soul, gain higher perspective, and feel connected to Life. Plus, it’s great for those with a low budget. ;)

Not only that, but nature is truly our “original” form of healing as a species : our entire lives depend on the food, water, shelter, and many other resources we gain from Mama Earth. 

Here are some self-healing ideas:

  • Go to your local park and spend some time listening to an open-eyed meditation while you’re there. Alteratively, simply enjoy soaking in the environment by mindfully looking around you at the people, animals, shrubs, clouds, etc. – FREE
  • Walk barefoot somewhere safe, like in your backyard, next to a river or beach, etc. Soak in the energy of the earth (and while you’re at it, you might like to research the topic of “earthing”!)  – FREE
  • Sit with your back against a big tree – feel its strength and resilience and let that settle your body and mind. – FREE
  • Spend some time with one of your pets. Play with them, cuddle them, and let them remind you of the simple pleasures of life.  – FREE
  • Do some “forest bathing,” which has many proven health benefits. Read more about forest bathing . – FREE
  • If you live in a big city and find it hard to access nature, listen to some sounds of nature and watch documentaries about nature. Also, make space for some indoor plants which can help you reconnect with nature. – FREE / LOW-COST

Read more: Ecotherapy: 14 Types of Earth-Centered Healing You Will Love

3. Meditation

Meditation is an obvious choice for this article and section, and unless you’re signing up to some big expensive retreat, there are many ways to do meditation for free. In fact, I’d say that when it comes to meditation, such a practice is, by nature, free ! All you need is a quiet place to sit, and perhaps a seat or cushion.

When it comes to guided meditations, there’s no shortage out there. Simply search YouTube or a music app like Spotify for “guided meditation” and you’ll find many. 

Spiritual Gifts Test image

There are also loads of wonderful apps out there as well which offer free meditations such as Calm, InsightTimer, Headspace, Simple Habit, Smiling Mind, and so on. Keep in mind, however, that some of these apps require a subscription, while others are totally free. 

Free meditations are also sometimes offered in-person at community events, YMCAs, and at certain places like Buddhist sanghas or Hindu gatherings.

Here are a couple of free guides that can help you go deeper into meditation and choose what style suits you best:

  • 21 Profoundly Healing Meditation Practices (With Videos)
  • Spiritual Meditation: 11 Ways to Enlighten Your Mind  
  • There are some interesting and valuable spiritual apps out there which are either free or low-cost. Simply search “free spiritual apps” and you’ll find everything from mindful self-care apps to push notification affirmations. – FREE/LOW-COST
  • If you’re interested in learning more about a specific form of self-healing (such as reiki), there are many groups often found on social media that can give you ideas. Some of these groups also offer free services (although be mindful and wary of ‘spiritual sharks’ and use your spiritual discernment ). – FREE
  • Listening to music is a wonderful way of reconnecting with your Soul and practicing self-healing. While most platforms that have music play advertisements, there’s also the option of going old-school and hiring CDs from your local library (they probably have some) or thrift store. Also, many platforms these days are ad-free, but limited in functionality like Spotify, where you pay a premium for the privilege of choosing what track you listen to next and creating playlists) – FREE
  • Discover more ideas in my free spiritual healing article (plus what to be careful of)!

So, has anything caught your eye in this article? If so, I’d love to hear! 

Remember, this guide on deep self-healing isn’t meant to be exhaustive – it’s simply meant to point out that self-healing doesn’t need to be expensive. 

I hope the above recommendations have helped you out!

Whenever you feel the call, there are 3 ways I can help you:

1. The Spiritual Wanderer Course: Need "big picture" direction, clarity, and focus? Our Spiritual Wanderer course is a crystallization of 10+ years of inner work, and it can help you find your deepest path and purpose in life as a spiritual wanderer. You get 3+ hours of audio-visual content, workbooks, meditations, a premium test, and more!.

2. Shadow & Light Membership: Want weekly intuitive guidance to support you on your awakening path? This affordable membership can help you to befriend your dark side, rediscover more self-love, and reclaim inner wholeness.

3. Spiritual Awakening Bundle: Looking for a collection of all our essential transformative resources? You get five enlightening ebooks, seven in-depth journals, plus two empowering bonuses to help you soul search, heal, and awaken.

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The Power Of Grace And Self-Compassion On Your Healing Journey

Written by Dr. Karen Stallings, Therapist & Life Coach

Dr. Karen Stallings is an expert in her field. She is the founder of Heal My Wounded Place, a buissness that empowers people to heal the wounds of the soul, the author of the book When Faith and Trauma Collide, she is a faith driven entrepreneur who has been a practicing clinican for over 30 years.

Executive Contributor Dr. Karen Stallings

Healing is a deeply personal journey, often fraught with challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. Whether you are healing from trauma, working through anxiety, or striving to overcome past wounds, the process can sometimes feel overwhelming. In these moments, embracing grace and self-compassion becomes not just beneficial but essential.

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Understanding grace in healing

Grace, in a spiritual context, is often seen as the unmerited favor and love of God. It is the gift we receive without having to earn it, a reflection of divine love that meets us where we are, no matter how broken or flawed. When we extend this same grace to ourselves, we begin to recognize that our worth is not tied to our ability to heal quickly or perfectly. Instead, our value is inherent, rooted in the understanding that we are loved and cherished as we are.

Grace allows us to let go of the unrealistic expectations we place on ourselves during the healing process. It gives us permission to take our time, to stumble, and to get back up again without self-condemnation. When we view our healing through the lens of grace, we acknowledge that it is okay to not have everything figured out. We can trust that we are held by a power greater than ourselves, and that this power is guiding us toward wholeness in its own perfect timing.

The role of self-compassion

While grace is the divine love that meets us where we are, self-compassion is the act of accepting that love and extending it to ourselves. It is the practice of treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we would offer to a close friend.

Self-compassion involves recognizing that suffering, failure, and imperfection are part of the shared human experience. It encourages us to be gentle with ourselves, to speak words of kindness instead of criticism, and to nurture our hearts with patience.

In the context of mental health, self-compassion can be transformative. Studies have shown that individuals who practice self-compassion experience less anxiety, depression, and stress. They are more resilient in the face of setbacks and are better able to maintain emotional balance during difficult times.

When we cultivate self-compassion, we create a safe and supportive inner environment where healing can flourish. We learn to forgive ourselves for past mistakes, to release the grip of shame, and to embrace our vulnerabilities as part of our unique journey.

The interplay of grace and self-compassion

Grace and self-compassion are deeply interconnected. Grace invites us to see ourselves through the eyes of divine love, while self-compassion empowers us to live out that vision in our daily lives. Together, they create a powerful foundation for healing—a foundation that is not built on striving or self-criticism but on acceptance, kindness, and love.

When we accept grace, we open our hearts to the possibility that healing does not have to be a solitary struggle. We can lean into the support of our faith, knowing that we are never alone on this journey. And when we practice self-compassion, we give ourselves the space to heal at our own pace, without the added burden of self-judgment.

1. Practice forgiveness

Forgive yourself:  Recognize that you are human and prone to mistakes. Embrace forgiveness for yourself when you fall short of your own expectations.

Forgive others:  Holding onto resentment or grudges blocks the flow of grace. Practice forgiving those who have hurt you, releasing bitterness, and allowing grace to fill your heart.

2. Cultivate gratitude

Daily gratitude practice:  Spend time each day reflecting on the blessings in your life, no matter how small. Gratitude shifts your focus from what is lacking to what is abundant, opening your heart to more grace.

Gratitude in difficulties:  Train yourself to find something to be grateful for even in challenging situations. This perspective helps you see the presence of grace even in adversity.

3. Engage in prayer or meditation

Prayer for grace:  Regularly ask for divine grace in your prayers. Express your need for it and your desire to live in alignment with it.

Meditation on grace:  Spend time in quiet meditation, focusing on the concept of grace. Imagine it flowing into your life and extending outward to others.

4. Embrace humility

Acknowledge limitations:  Recognize and accept your human limitations. Understanding that you don't have to be perfect opens you up to receiving grace.

Serve others:  Humility is often deepened through service. By putting others' needs before your own, you become more aware of the grace that operates through acts of love and kindness.

5. Study spiritual texts

Read scripture or sacred writings:  Engage with texts that emphasize the concept of grace, whether in the Bible or other spiritual literature. Reflect on how these teachings apply to your life.

Join study groups:  Participate in study groups or discussions focused on grace. Hearing others' perspectives can deepen your understanding and experience of grace.

6. Practice self-compassion

Be kind to yourself:  Regularly remind yourself that you are deserving of kindness and compassion. Treat yourself with the same grace you would extend to a loved one.

Challenge negative self-talk:  Notice when you are being overly critical of yourself. Gently redirect those thoughts toward self-compassionate ones.

7. Mindful presence

Live in the present:  Grace often reveals itself in the present moment. Practice mindfulness to stay grounded in the here and now, where grace can be experienced more fully.

Accept what is:  Cultivate an attitude of acceptance toward your current circumstances, trusting that grace is at work even in situations that are difficult or uncertain.

8. Extend grace to others

Be understanding:  Practice empathy and understanding in your relationships. Offer grace to others by giving them the benefit of the doubt and showing patience.

Acts of kindness:  Look for opportunities to be kind without expecting anything in return. These small acts can help you embody grace in your daily life.

9. Reflect on past experiences of grace

Journal about grace:  Write about times in your life when you experienced grace, whether from others or from a higher power. Reflecting on these moments can deepen your awareness of grace in the present.

Share your story:  Talk about your experiences of grace with others. Sharing how grace has impacted your life can reinforce its presence and importance.

10. Create a grace-filled environment

Surround yourself with positive influences:  Spend time with people, communities, and in environments that reflect and encourage grace.

Decorate your space with reminders:  Place visual or written reminders of grace in your living or working spaces, such as quotes, images, or symbols that inspire you to live gracefully.

11. Practice surrender

Let go of control:  Trust in a higher power or the flow of life, allowing grace to guide you. Surrendering control over outcomes invites grace to work in unexpected and powerful ways.

Accept uncertainty:  Embrace the unknown as a space where grace can operate. Instead of fearing what you cannot predict or control, view it as an opportunity for grace to unfold.

By incorporating these practices into your life, you can deepen your experience of grace, allowing it to flow more freely in your relationships, your self-perception, and your connection with the Father.

Need assistance on your Journey? Contact Dr. K, The Emotional Wound Strategist, here .

Follow me on  Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website  for more info!

Read more from Dr. Karen Stallings

Dr. Karen Stallings, Therapist & Life Coach

Dr. Karen Stallings is an expert within the mental health field. Her childhood traumas, battles with depression and suicidal ideation provoked her to begin a journey of healing. She has dedicated her life to empowering others with tools and strategies to heal the wounds of their soul. She is the founder of Heal My Wounded Place, a premiere online business where she services clients across the nation.

Her mission: Let's Heal the wounds we cannot see.

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The Self-Healing Journey Program

A complete lifestyle program to improve your total well-being. resolve digestive issues, boost your immune system, increase energy and relieve stress, anxiety & worry, adjust weight and thrive every day with  ayurvedic science, yoga, meditation, prayer, nutrition, ancestral health tools the self-healing journey program will guide you with ease and patience. , an integrated approach  .

Learn how to take care of Your mental, emotional and physical well-being with The Self-Healing Journey Program.

A compilation of over 20 years of experience with Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation, Prayer, Shamanism, Spiritual Healing, Purification, Detoxification and more. Excellent as a part of a Plant Medicine regime to enhance the work done in Ceremonies. Reset your Digestion and understand why is one of the most important assets for Health. 

Leo Cordero

Leo Cordero is a Researcher of Spiritual Paths and Student of Life, he is a Certified Ayurvedic Clinical Specialist and Pancha Karma Therapist; a Certified Nutrition and Health Coach specialized in Holistic Nutrition, Detoxification and Purification; a Certified 500 RYT Yoga and Meditation Teacher, as well as a Shamanic Spiritual Healer and direct student of Shamans from the Amazons – Taita Juan Chindoy and Taita Luis Chindoy from the Inga Culture of the Amazonian Colombia. This Program is his knowledge gathered through studies for over 20 years, practices that has transformed into wisdom. This 3rd edition of Program is made in a simple and easy-to-use manner for You to study it and apply.

Ayurveda |  Yoga | Prayer | Meditation | Nutrition | Purification | Detoxification |  Shamanism

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Transform your life.

This course is going to help you change your life. Give yourself 8 weeks of dedication and together we will walk on this journey of Self-Healing. If by the end of 8 weeks you don’t feel a difference, we guarantee money back!

“Thank you Leo for the Self Healing Journey System. It is exactly what I needed to heal my mind and body. From the peaceful meditation and prayer course to the informative Ayurveda classes. My food is now my medicine. I am off my asthma medicine and Motrin for Fibromyalgia and have lost 8 pounds after just 5 weeks. I am turning to a better way of life that is easy and makes sense to not just me but everyone! God Bless you! “

“ Your Self Healing Journey program is excellent. I started following the program and meditating twice a day and already seeing a positive effect. Thank you for your sincere guidance ! “

“ I absolutely loved the class! I literally said after each class… “where have you been all my life”! Your chill attitude and super knowledge of Ayurveda are a great combination to be a great teacher. I feel my life has yet again changed for the better and I love my new lifestyle! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. “

“ Thank you.. I’m so amazed at the changes occurring, not just a gift of physical health, much deeper. Thank you for this! “

“ This course is truly incredible. Throughout the years, I’ve tried to read through Ayurvedic literature by Dr. Vadant Lad, Dr. Robert E. Svoboda, and Deepak Chopra, and would continuously fall off of it. I’ve always been incredibly interested in Ayurvedic Science but found it hard to study and apply. Now doing this course, I realize that there are multiple planes that need to be in motion in order to apply it, and attempting it without guidance is very hard. I also realized that my consciousness wasn’t able to receive these deep teachings back then, which is something that this course prepares you for. Leonardo has made a wonderful platform, to truly understand and integrate this wisdom. The course perfectly builds on top of each other week by week. You’re adding in new life concepts that challenge the Western way and within a few weeks you’ll see that it all falls together perfectly little by little. So cool! highly recommend this course! “

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An 8-week Program to gain wisdom from ancestral healing methods for complete transformation

8-week process with an Ayurvedic Detoxification and Purification that will leave you feeling grounded, calm and strong. The whole Program is designed to create the optimal renewal at a physical & mental level. An Ayurvedic Purification  is a 4000 years old (and never changed) process designed for rejuvenation and longevity. Learn proper techniques for maintaining health and growing in empowerment.

You will recieve instructions, videos and audios that will show you step by step how to apply the information. ALL INFORMATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ALL AT ONCE AND IT WILL REMAIN AVAILABLE ALWAYS. 

Meditation & Prayer

Learn a deep and powerful meditation technique.

That can help you in making your path of Life easier while bringing a very needed understanding.

Learn to Pray deeply

One of the most important things to learn in life. Prayer requires an awareness, that is why is taught alongside with Meditation.

Learn Pranayama

Conscious Breathing Exercises, being one of the secrets used in Yoga to clear the blockages in life.  Used also by ancient cultures like the Incas, Toltecs and Mayas. Pranayama is really powerful and used correctly it help you heal life deeply.

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Learn about the art of living

Learn the foundational Philosophy sustaining all these practices. When learning Ayurveda, Yoga or Meditation, it makes sense to comprehend where it comes from and how it was put together.  It will help you understand why there are so many traditions and spiritual paths and why they are all the branches of the same tree. 

Elemental Ayurveda

Ayurveda contains important information to learn for orchestrating your life.  As you learn more and more about Ayurvedic Wisdom and you bring it, little by little, to your life, it will start making more sense and you will feel more complete in your life as a person. Learning Ayurveda is very important as a fundamental building block of self-knowledge and self-care, for all people; it is Universal Wisdom. 

Learn the Nutrition tricks

A reference guide to remove any confusion about foods. There is so much dietary and nutrition information available that it is simply crazy. With so many possibilities of what to eat and how and when to eat, many people feel overwhelmed and confused. In contrast, the first thing to understand is the basic Ayurvedic Practices of Nutrition, and from there and with a deeper understanding of Ayurveda one can create a diet that works for the individual, specific and unique rather than generalized. 

learn a powerful technique

You will learn a Master technique of relaxation and enhancement of your awareness that could expand the power of your Pineal Gland and your Heart consciousness. This technique will benefit your circadian  rhythms, your sleep, your relationships, your physical and mental health while creating harmony that builds up and accumulates. This technique will bring an new awareness to life and when combined with Meditation and all the other practices shared in the SHJ Program lasting wellness can be achieved.

Learn Ayurvedic practices

Ayurveda with its 5,000 years of existence is an instruction manual that may be successfully and easily applied to life. We as humans many times don’t know what works and what doesn’t except by trial and error, but Ayurveda already knows what works. The idea is to learn to incorporate simple and strategic practices that will create a better life altogether at a mental and physical levels. 

Learn proper detoxification

Detoxification and Purification are synonyms of Rejuvenation, according to Ayurveda.  When these processes are done correctly rejuvenation happens and the body and the mind become stronger. In the SHJ Program you will find techniques that were created for the Royalty of India as well as techniques that advance Yogis use in the cleansing of their bodies and minds. 

create a change in your life NoW get the self-healing Journey program

“ I can’t thank you enough.  Thank you, Leo.  One thing I want to tell you is that for years my husband had proclaimed “I don’t know how to meditate”.  I’ve shared books with him, taken him to meditate at Buddhist meditation centers, talked to him about how to meditate, etc.  Still, until we received your 11 meditations and prayers, he has still said he didn’t know how to meditate.  Now, because of your generosity, Tom is meditating for 30 minutes every morning. “

wendy & Tom

“ Thank you so much for the gift of presence. These 11 days have changed me, and I say this with honesty and humbleness.  For someone who has practiced different forms of meditation for more than 15 years, not every day but definitely with the belief of its power, I must say this course has ignited something within me that I think I was lacking in order to hopefully start making this a daily practice. Whether it is the reminder of stillness, prayer, or faith through the evocation of the divine teachers, this has been a wonderful gift. Thank you, thank you, thank you. “

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Join me and take the Self-Healing Journey today!

Learn Ayurvedic lifestyle tools

Learn Elemental Nutrition 

Learn Meditation

Learn Breathwork

Learn Detoxification

Learn Prayer

… and much more!!!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still not sure? Here are some answers to commonly asked questions.

Is this course for me?

What if i don't have time.

If you don’t take time for your health, then you will be forced to take time for your illness.

Ask yourself if you really don’t have the time. Are you going to the see doctors? Taking perscription medication? Do you have days you spend recovering for seemingly no reason?  I would suggest that by investing more time into your body and mind, by taking your health into your own hands by going on this Self-Healing Journey, you will be in control of your life and in the end have more time to yourself.

I feel healthy already. Do I really need this?

A healthy person can really benefit from the Self-Healing Journey program, it will put all current information under the umbrella of Ancestral Sciences bringing an additional empowerment to the individual. 

I have specific needs. Can you help me?

The Program targets all body types and all levels of physical, mental health. You can start at any given time, go at your own pace and study when your schedule allows you. The Program will always be there.

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4 Pillars of Life

Learn the 4 Pillars of Life, simplifying the understanding of our existence.

Powerful Maintenance Techniques

Learn powerful techniques to solve digestive issues and to maintain your health NOW!

Totally Optimize Real Nutrition

Learn the Science of Nutrition, Optimize your Diet completely with Ancient and Modern Knowledge.

Stages of Disease

Learn what is creating toxicity in your body and how it evolves in the Stages of Disease.

Sophisticated Purification Techniques

Learn how to recover your health deeply, cleansing your system appropriately.

Synchronize your Life with the Rhythm of the Sun

Learn how with Ayurveda you can optimize your day and improve your existence and production.

Ayurveda Body/Mind types

Use Ayurveda to listen to and understand your body and mind better.

A Powerful Program to Heal your Body

A full, safe, powerful, deep and healing, complete Purification – Detoxification Program.

Powerful techniques to change your energy vibration

That bring tangible results from the first time you practice them.

The content in The Self Healing Journey System is meant for educational purposes only. None of the information displayed on this website or the contents of The Self Healing Journey Program and THE DETOX program are intended to diagnose or treat any disease. Please practice discretion, considering your unique health requirements, and consult your medical practitioner before implementing any dietary changes, purification methods, or changes in your lifestyle.

Copyright © 2003 – 2023 Leonardo Cordero, www.LeoCordero.com,   www.TheSelf-HealingJourney.com, THE DETOX

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COMMENTS

  1. The Journey: A Practical Guide to Healing Your Life and Setting

    Amazon.com: The Journey: A Practical Guide to Healing Your Life and Setting Yourself Free: 9781451665611: Bays, Brandon: Books ... Interesting approach to self-healing. I actually went to Sedona to do journey work with two healers - very interesting and productive experience. I'm a bit of a skeptic on miracle cures, and I don't think this ...

  2. The Journey

    The Journey Method can be used to heal from physical and emotional issues, including stress, anxiety, depression and anger. It is potent in releasing the negativities that can lead to low self-esteem, procrastination and self-sabotage. It is deeply effective in healing and transforming relationships. It will help you remove blocks to abundance ...

  3. How To Heal Yourself: 16 Solid Tips To Heal Mind, Body & Soul

    Embarking on the self-healing journey isn't like embarking on a sprint; it's more like training for a marathon. It's a process, and guess what? You're the coach, the athlete, and the biggest cheerleader. So, lace up those metaphorical sneakers, and let's dive deep into understanding self-healing without skimping on the fun or the facts.

  4. The 6 Steps of Healing You Need to Know

    As healing occurs, the self returns to new wholeness complete with these past new experiences and new choices. It is here meaning can unfold. Via discovery, meaning, from an otherwise painful ...

  5. Self Healing Journey: Practical Steps to Start Today

    By tuning into this intelligence, we can avoid activities that harm us and embrace those that promote our well-being. Enhancing your body awareness through accessing your body's intelligence is a pivotal step in your self-healing journey. 2. Master Your Nervous System.

  6. The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse

    The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse (pp. 180-181). Kindle Edition.) The process of confronting our False Self, Love Addiction, Substance Abuse, Co-Dependency, trauma-bonds, and other consequences of growing up with such profound insults to our human dignity, is not an easy road. However, Meredith is absolutely ...

  7. How to Find Emotional Healing

    Emotional healing is the process of acknowledging, allowing, accepting, integrating, and processing painful life experiences and strong emotions. It may involve empathy, self-regulation, self-compassion, self-acceptance, mindfulness, and integration. Many people have a tendency to want to control the process of emotional healing by minimizing ...

  8. How to start a self healing journey

    When you're an active participant in your healing, you can make much greater strides. So first thing in a self healing journey is to take an active role. This is your body and your mind so it's important that you are there to work on your healing. 2. Be open to heal.

  9. Emotional Self-Healing: How to Start Your Powerful Journey Today

    What is Self Healing? Self-healing is a process by which you work toward recovering from emotional pain and trauma. Although the "self" in the name is a driving force, that doesn't mean that you must do it alone. The self implies strong self-motivation and self-discipline, but the self-healing journey is often best accomplished alongside ...

  10. Everything About The Healing Journey: 30+ Tips for Different Healing

    The Healing Journey is a psycho-spiritual process of self-discovery that allows us to develop a deeper self-awareness and understanding of the world around us. Healing is an individual process of becoming whole again and every journey is unique. Understand that no one's journey has a quick fix. This is a process that takes lots of […]

  11. What Is A Healing Journey And Why And How To Start One

    An emotional healing journey is a progression from emotional distress to increased overall emotional well-being. An emotional healing journey is different from a mental health or substance use recovery journey, but it can occur at the same time as mental health or substance use recovery. Emotional healing may be possible for some without using ...

  12. The Self-Healing Journey

    Self-healing is a journey of choice. You can choose to continue in the same direction, the direction of pain, or to break new ground to be pain-free - a breakdown or a break-through. Choosing to purposely alter your path is done at great risk of the unknown. It is a journey into the Self, from the surface to the depths, from the seen to the ...

  13. The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse

    The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse (pp. 180-181). Kindle Edition.) The process of confronting our False Self, Love Addiction, Substance Abuse, Co-Dependency, trauma-bonds, and other consequences of growing up with such profound insults to our human dignity, is not an easy road. However, Meredith is absolutely ...

  14. The Journey of Self-Healing: Everything You Need to Know About Truly

    The journey of self-healing is a non-fictional self-help book written by an author who has a long practice making medicinal medicine with herbs. He knows all that there is about plants and nature. He can forage and grow them in a way that makes natural medicine, and with this knowledge, he provides a very insightful educational book. ...

  15. Deep Self-Healing (on a Budget) 9+ Tips!

    Self-healing is the practice of self-guided physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual healing. When we go on a self-healing journey, our goal is to soothe, dissolve, or remedy the unresolved wounds and traumas that are buried within us. The goal of self-healing is to always access a greater level of physical vitality, inner peace, happiness, confidence, harmonious relationships, life ...

  16. The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse

    THE JOURNEY is an essential guide through the stages of narcissistic abuse recovery. There is currently a social crisis leaving millions of people feeling alone and confused, struggling to escape the self-doubt, fear and so many unanswered questions. Invisible abuse is rarely talked about because of how hard it is to pin-point, even by mental health professionals.

  17. The Power Of Grace And Self-Compassion On Your Healing Journey

    Healing is a deeply personal journey, often fraught with challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. Whether you are healing from trauma, working through anxiety, or striving to overcome past wounds, the process can sometimes feel overwhelming. In these moments, embracing grace and self-compassion becomes not just beneficial but essential.

  18. The Journey to Self-Healing: A Beginner's Guide

    Embrace the Power of Self-Healing: Join us on a journey to discover the transformative impact of taking control of your mental and emotional well-being. Expl...

  19. The Self-Healing Journey

    This Program is not another diet trend or mainstream easy-fix. This is Ancestral Wisdom of Healing and understanding of one self as we walk this life in this one physical body. We all are unique combination of Universal elements - Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space. The Self-Healing Journey Program teaches about understanding Your personal ...

  20. The Journey: A Roadmap for Self-healing After Narcissistic Abuse

    THE JOURNEY is an essential guide through the stages of narcissistic abuse recovery. There is currently a social crisis leaving millions of people feeling alone and confused, struggling to escape the self-doubt, fear and so many unanswered questions.

  21. The Healing Journey: How Love Guides Us Back to Ourselves

    The healing journey often involves returning to our true selves. This episode explores how love can guide us on this journey, helping us rediscover and heal our authentic selves. Information. Creator. Nic Fink . Episodes. 2 . Rating. Clean . Show Website. The Healing Journey: How Love Guides Us Back to Ourselves .

  22. The Alchemy of Horses: A Journey of Self-Healing

    The author writes an honest tale from suffering to awakening, then to healing, all because of the horses in her life and the journey she has shared with them. The book reveals the horse's remarkable ability to reveal, through the unvarnished clarity of their emotions, a pathway to truth, for their owners and riders.