Back to: Day 20 – Inner Child Work

Before doing this exercise, watch the video lesson.

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Exercise:

(Read completely before beginning.)

Set two chairs facing each other, or place two cushions on the floor facing each other.

Sit on one chair or cushion, and pretend that you are yourself, as a child. This might feel silly – allow yourself to feel silly, and then keep going. Feel your helplessness. Express your fear aloud, speaking as a child would. Say things like, “Nobody is taking care of me, I’m going to die. I’m very scared. The world is so dangerous.” While you’re speaking, allow any feelings of fear, stress, and helplessness to come forward. Acknowledge them. Feel them. Keep going for as long as you need, allowing your inner child to express themself fully. 

When your inner child has finished, move to sit on the other chair or cushion, and assume the role of your adult self. As you gaze opposite you, at the empty seat, imagine that helpless child is sitting there and you must comfort them. Talk to them: “Listen to me. I am you, all grown up. We are no longer helpless. We are intelligent and we are strong, and we no longer need somebody to take care of us.” Say whatever it is you need to say to your inner child to calm their fear. 

When you finish, place your hands over your chest. Allow those feelings of safety, security, and love to spread through your body. Take some deep breaths, and sit like this as long as you need to.

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*This is an practice from the Vietnamese philosopher, Thich Nhat Hanh. If you’re looking for extra reading, I highly recommend his book, Fear.