Handling "inner Child"- Advice Please?

[Wrknprgrss]

My T says that your inner child is really just the most vulnerable part of yourself. T had me do different things to take care of my IC. For example, at the end of every day I had to write a letter to my IC telling her why I was proud of her and apologizing if I didn't take care of her ... things like that. T also had me just play with my IC. Break out some coloring books and crayons, or paint, or do a puzzle, watch some cartoons. It's taking care of the vulnerable side of yourself with simplicity and NO judgment. You wouldn't judge 5 year old you for needing a blanky and teddy bear or for wanting to spend an hour coloring or something like that.

Listening to your "little you" means being aware of when you/she needs to rest, are under too much stress, need "play time," etc. It does feel a little strange at first, but it is extremely helpful and will allow you to be gentle to yourself and take care of yourself. It also helps you to talk to your T about things your vulnerable part is struggling with. It does feel about odd, but try your best to go along with it .... it will help you a LOT! and NEVER judge your little you ... it will only hurt you...

 

[rainbow1]

I must admit I'm not sure about the inner child thing either. I am aware of feeling childish and speaking in a more child like way with T sometimes. I also sometimes struggle to understand what he means when he explains things and I think that is possibly because I feel more child like when we talk about things. Not sure.

Ice_Fire, please don't be embarrassed about sucking your thumb still, I am in my 30's and have only very recently stopped sucking my thumb (a couple of months ago!). It was a comfort to me whilst trying to sleep. I had tried to stop many times before but never managed it just felt like the right time this time and so far so good.