By Leda de Zwaan, The Master Shift

Your inner child is ALWAYS inside of you. You carry them around wherever you go because he or she lives in your heart. What happens when the inner child feels abandoned by its father or mother, discouraged,  unacknowledged, cheated on or rejected by a loved one?

The Triggers:

The energy can take over your whole system. It is so strong in protecting you from any more harm, that it can show up in your body functions, but also behavior and sleep. When it stands up, all of a sudden, it can look/feel like this:

– Heart problems coming seemingly out of nowhere.

– The strong feeling of wanting to end it now, whatever it is.

– Feeling very nervous, without any reason.

– Sporatic crying, and feeling scared and lost.

– Problems sleeping, the feeling as if something is very wrong

– You start drinking/smoking, or any other habit to escape from something that feels like an enormous danger. You want to get away.

– You need to be alone, and protect yourself, feeling like running away.

What can I do?

Meditate. Lay a hand on your heart and see the child (you as a young boy/girl) in front of you. Ask why they are in so much fear. Hold them when they cries. Tell them this: “I am Now grown up. I am here to protect and comfort you. I DO want to be open to this new love. I know that your intentions come from a place of love. Thank you.”

“But I’m an adult now, and I choose to connect with this person. Don’t be afraid anymore, trust me…” Put the inner child back in your heart. Give it some toys to play with, and let it be comfortable. Depending on the level of fear you may need to do this everyday.

Note: The first encounter with your inner child can be very emotional. She or he could’ve been in a dark corner alone and crying for decades. Just pick them up and comfort them, as you are Grown Up Now. Share emotions, cuddle them and make sure they understands that the situation is going to change. You’ll always keep on loving them, but you’ll be open for new love at the same time.

Look into the child’s eyes. Visualize what they look like, how they feel, how they act. Are they scared, confused, insecure or unsafe. How old is your child? Are they holding you back from change? You’re capable of holding this child and comforting them. Whisper for example: I’m <<name>> and I’m <<age>> years old.

I swear to protect you from everything that might harm you. We can do anything, be anywhere and love anyone. It’s okay to have feelings. I’ve seen you, and I’ll hold you. Let’s change. I’ve already changed. I see your fears and I understand them. I see the pain you’ve experienced in the past.

Tell it everything you want it to know and hug it. You’re an adult now, and you can count on yourself. You’re able to protect yourself, love yourself and leave. Embrace your inner child and let it play instead of being scared.