Take a moment to settle into a comfortable position.
Let your body be fully supported,
Perhaps in a chair,
On a cushion,
Or lying down.
Allow your breath to arrive naturally,
Just noticing each inhale and each exhale,
Letting yourself settle fully into the present moment,
Remembering that there is nothing you need to do here,
Nowhere to be except here,
Now,
Present with yourself.
Now gently invite the presence of your younger self,
Perhaps at some moment in their life when they are in great distress or pain.
Taking a moment to allow whatever arises,
An image,
A face,
A feeling.
Once you've arrived at this moment in time,
Notice how they appear.
Observe their posture,
Their energy,
And the emotions they carry.
Approach them with warmth and softness,
Just as you might approach any child who needs help.
Offer them silent acknowledgment that they are safe,
Seen,
And accepted exactly as they are.
Softly invite this child to share with you by asking them,
Is there anything you need or want from me?
Allow space for whatever arises.
They may ask for comfort,
Love,
Reassurance,
Or guidance.
They may simply want your presence.
Whatever they ask for,
Give it freely in this safe,
Imaginative space.
Maybe a hug,
A gentle hand,
A favorite object,
A kind word,
Allowing yourself to provide exactly what they need.
If they are unsure what they want or are hesitant,
Respond gently.
That's okay.
There's no rush.
I'm here for you,
And I will always show up.
If they ask you to go somewhere special,
Follow them there.
It could be a comforting place from your childhood,
A cozy room,
Or a peaceful outdoor space.
Walk together,
Explore together,
Feel the joy of being fully present with them.
Let them lead you at their own pace.
Spend a few moments here simply being.
Notice the emotions that arise.
Notice any sensations in your body as you offer care and presence to your childhood self.
Now,
Imagine a warm light surrounding both of you.
Let this light bring comfort,
Protection,
And a sense of peace.
Allow it to wrap around any places of hurt or fear.
Breathe into this light.
Let it expand within your chest,
Warming your heart,
And radiating outward as you exhale.
Offer a gentle affirmation to your younger self.
May you feel safe.
May you feel seen.
May you feel unconditionally loved.
Let these words resonate deeply,
Allowing them to settle into their being.
Imagine your childhood self receiving this affection,
And visualize how they change.
Their body posture,
Their facial expression,
Maybe a shift in the weight of their heavy heart.
You can see that they know they are not alone,
Are deeply supported,
And unconditionally loved.
When the time feels right,
Gradually say goodbye to your younger self,
Visualizing them leaving this scene,
Carrying with them a sense of love,
Safety,
And reassurance that they didn't previously have access to.
Know that you can return to them any time.
They are always with you,
Open to receiving your care.
Bringing your attention back to your body,
Notice the support beneath you,
The rhythm of your breath,
The emotions that may have arisen within.
When you are ready,
Open your eyes slowly,
Carrying with you the tenderness,
Connection,
And care that you have cultivated for the inner child within.
