How We Lost Contact with the Inner Child

Watercolor illustration of a group sitting quietly in a circle during daylight, symbolizing reconnecting with the inner child

What It Is (Definition, Starts with "X is Y")

Connection with the inner child is the ability of an adult to maintain an emotional and mental link with those aspects of their personality that were formed in childhood. This inner child holds our early experiences, dreams, fears, and joys. It is a source of creativity, spontaneity, and genuine joy. However, in the process of growing up, under the influence of social norms and obligations, many of us lose this connection.

"The inner child is not just memories; it is a living part of us that needs care and attention." — Samudro Prem

An example can be a situation where an adult, facing difficulties, feels helpless or overwhelmed. This may be a signal that their inner child needs attention and support.

Why It Matters

Losing connection with the inner child can lead to feelings of emptiness, depression, and a loss of life energy. Many adults, immersed in daily concerns and responsibilities, forget about their childhood dreams and desires. This can lead to a feeling that life is passing by and a constant sense of dissatisfaction.

For those seeking personal growth and harmony, restoring the connection with the inner child can be an important step. It allows not only a better understanding of one's true desires and needs but also finding joy and satisfaction in everyday life.

How It Works (Mechanism)

Restoring the connection with the inner child requires awareness and a willingness to engage in inner work. In Samudro Prem's teachings, this includes meditations, mindfulness practices, and working with emotions. Samudro suggests using meditation to connect with the inner child, starting from the heart chakra and moving to the lower abdomen, where our inner child resides.

"Meditation is a way to hear the voice of your inner child and give it the freedom to be itself." — Samudro Prem

These practices help to become aware of and accept childhood experiences, which in turn allows an adult to integrate them into their life.

What to Do About It (Practice/Recommendations)

To restore the connection with the inner child, Samudro Prem offers several practical steps:

Inner Child Meditation: Start with the heart chakra, placing your hand on your heart. Recall moments when you were happy in childhood. Then place your hand on the lower abdomen and feel how your inner child feels.
Time for Play: Find time for activities that bring you joy and remind you of childhood. This could be drawing, dancing, or simply walking in nature.
Emotional Work: Allow yourself to express and experience the emotions that arise during this work. This could be tears, laughter, or even anger.
Seek Support: If you feel you cannot cope on your own, seek help from a specialist or participate in a retreat, such as the one offered by IMAP in Bali.

When to Seek Help / Method Boundaries

It is important to remember that working with the inner child does not replace professional therapy and is not suitable for addressing acute mental states. If you experience serious emotional difficulties or mental disorders, it is recommended to seek help from a qualified psychotherapist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tool can be used when the inner girl, who was told at 6 years old: "You must be strong and ignore that your father left, you can't cry," is triggered?

Samudro recommends releasing the emotions behind this pain. You can create a safe space at home to release emotions or attend a seminar.

How to find a balance between self-sufficiency and accepting support?

It is important to listen to your inner teacher and understand what you need. The balance between active and passive energy, between giving and receiving, is the key to health and harmony.