by Karen Coogan
I am a child of the universe. I am full of infinite potential and limitless possibilities.
How do we reconcile this universal concept with the perceived limitations of the human being? We have been taught from the time we are born to conform to certain societal and parental standards and norms. One of the first words we learn is ‘no’. We are taught limits because a child has no sense of limits. Our parents, out of concern for our safety and for our protection, impose limits.
As an adult, we continue to act from these teachings. We can cross the street without holding our parent’s hand and be conscious of possible dangers. Are you confident and comfortable talking to ‘strangers’ or is there still something fearful and untrustworthy about new encounters? As we grow, we learn to redefine and eliminate some of the restrictions and while moving forward on our spiritual path, we are continually being challenged in our limiting beliefs and thinking. This is a natural process as our soul continues in its’ maturing and connecting to the Universal Consciousness once again.
In my work, I have found that many conflicts arise from what we are taught and what we innately know; the knowledge and understanding derived from our intuitive or Authentic Self. Many of these conflicts are lodged within our emotional center, the area below the belly button know as the sacral or spleen, chakra. This is the area where emotions are stored, as well as being the link to the inner child. It is here that I have found the inner child to be warring with emotions; responding in fear from taught beliefs and suppression of emotions, as that is what we were taught or not allowed to express as children/while growing up. The inner child quite often is living in fear, retreating to the womb space of the sacral chakra.
It is here that we can address and commune with this child. The importance of allowing your inner child his/her freedom is as important as your own happiness, for this is the center for joy in your life.
For those who have never dealt with their inner child, I would suggest you start with the infant. Imagine the newborn babe first arriving in this world, full of wonder, yet totally unfamiliar with this strange expanded way of being. What this child needs most is warmth and closeness. Close your eyes, and imagine yourself as this infant. Hold this infant with love and tenderness. Reassure her/him that all is well; she/he is loved and cared for. See, feel, sense this child snuggle in to your arms, the feeling of security and assured of warmth. Be aware of any emotions that come forward. Address any fears this infant may have. Reassure and continue to send your love until the infant is sleeping peacefully in your arms. Remember, that just as a baby wakes and needs feeding, so too may your inner infant need reassurance throughout the day.
As you begin to nurture this new relationship with your inner self, allow your child to grow. There are different fears, and needs of a growing child. Remember that you are the parent – full of infinite compassion, love, and patience. This is the most important relationship you can ever foster and develop. Your inner child may come forward in anger, hurt, fear, or pain. Whatever the emotion is, address this beautiful child from the perspective of the loving parent. Reassure him with each issue as it comes forward. Love and hold this child. You may even find yourself gently rocking, while giving to the child – you – whatever you most require. It is important that the child feels at peace, is able to play once again, or be free to run. As you develop, nurture and grow with this child, remember this is a journey of discovery. There may be much that comes forward that will surprise, or even overwhelm you. Remember that as the parent, you are not alone. There is a community to love and support you in this nurturing. Remember that this child has already grown up, has already matured, and has already explored this world. The journey of walking with your inner child opens up a new world for you to explore, to release limiting beliefs and patterns, and to expand your awareness of the Universal Child that you are.
Affirm to yourself, “I am a child of the universe. I am full of infinite potential and limitless possibilities.” It is time to embrace who you are and who you can be.