Nourishment is not just about what we eat but it also includes how we go about nourishing our “wholeness.” One aspect which comes to mind for me is “self talk”. For me it is about nourishing the soul. The aspects of ourselves that may feel scared, helpless or alone. I believe these parts of ourselves are little “orphans” which had an impact on us in childhood. I am recalling an experience when I was 10 years old. I grew up in a world where I felt judged, I had no direction, support, and a lack of kindness. This was very scary for me. I had to keep a stiff upper lip. I can see how it is playing out in my life today. I am learning to dialogue with myself in a more compassionate and loving way. Bringing kindness, understanding and love to the forefront.
When I dialogue with this 10 year-old I take her by the hand and let her know everything is going to be okay, that she is not alone. I treat her like I would have treated my 10 year-old children letting them know that they are not alone and everything will be okay. I use kind words, listen without judging and trust my wisdom and clarity in my ripe age of 50. Of course we need nourishment through food but take a look at how you dialogue with those “scared’” parts of yourself. Do you take the time to nourish your emotional body?
Expressing your needs and getting your feelings out of your body. Writing and expressing my thoughts have been helpful. Do you take the time to nourish your physical body? Take note of your eating patterns, exercise, self-care such as massage, energy work or getting out in nature.
Last but not least what do you feed your soul? What brings you joy, are you using your creativity? It is simple ~ take a look outside and you will see what I mean. From my perspective healing begins by acknowledging how we reacted to trauma in the first place and the next step is to let yourself know it is safe to feel and express. If it feels “unsafe” do it anyways. As you do this you will begin to trust.
Anne LaMantia 