"Healing comes out of the practice itself, when we are able to be with ourselves."

Healing comes from the process of truly being present with ourselves. What does that mean, though? It’s about acknowledging our feelings, thoughts, and experiences without running away or distracting ourselves. When we sit with our emotions rather than burying them, we create space for healing to happen naturally.

Historically, this wisdom is rooted in mindfulness and meditation practices, which have been part of human culture for thousands of years. Think about Buddhist monks who’ve been meditating for centuries. They believe that by being fully present, one can achieve a sense of inner peace and healing. In modern times, this idea has been embraced by therapy and self-help movements, recognizing that confronting our issues head-on is more effective than avoiding them.

Let’s consider a real-life example. Imagine someone who’s just gone through a painful breakup. The initial reaction might be to dive into work, binge-watch TV, or scroll endlessly through social media—anything to avoid feeling the hurt. But what happens when you actually sit with that pain? You might cry, scream, or write angry letters you never send. It's not pretty, but it’s real. Over time, by allowing yourself to feel the heartbreak, you begin to understand it. You recognize patterns, learn about your needs, and start to heal a little bit every day.

So, how can you put this into practice? Start small. Set aside a few minutes each day to check in with yourself. Sit quietly, breathe deeply, and ask yourself how you’re feeling. No judgment, just observation. It might feel uncomfortable at first—like picking at a scab—but it’s a crucial step. You could also keep a journal, jotting down your thoughts and feelings. It’s a private space where you can be brutally honest with yourself.

Picture this: You’re at a coffee shop, a favorite spot with comfy chairs and the hum of people chatting. You’re sipping your latte, feeling a bit off. Instead of diving into your phone, you pause. You take a deep breath and let yourself feel. Maybe it’s stress from work, maybe it’s something else. You sit with it, acknowledge it. You might not solve anything right there, but you’ve taken the first step towards understanding and eventually healing. It’s like giving your soul a hug—simple yet powerful.

By practicing being with yourself, you become more attuned to your needs and emotions. It’s like developing a relationship with yourself, one where you listen and respond with compassion. Over time, this habit can transform your life, leading to greater self-awareness and inner peace.

So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or hurt, resist the urge to distract yourself. Sit with the feeling, even if it’s uncomfortable. Remember, healing isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. And it starts with being present with yourself.