What is Self Energy?
In the context of IFS, Self energy refers to the essence of a person that is not a part; it is the person's core or true Self. This Self is an inherently positive, healing force characterized by the 8 Cs. It is understood to be the leadership or guiding aspect of an individual's inner system, capable of healing psychological wounds by transforming the parts through its qualities. When an individual is in a state of Self, they can interact with their parts in a healing and harmonious way.
How to Access Self Energy on a Daily Basis
Accessing Self energy involves practices that encourage mindfulness, self-awareness, and inner harmony. Here are some exercises to help access Self energy daily:
Below are some practices that you can follow to cultivate Self energy:
1. Mindfulness Meditation: Start with 5-10 minutes of mindfulness meditation every day. Focus on your breath, observe your thoughts without judgment, and practice returning your attention to your breath whenever you get distracted. This exercise can help you cultivate calmness and clarity, which are important aspects of Self energy.
2. Journaling from the Self: Write in a journal as if you are your Self. Address your different parts with compassion and curiosity. Ask them what they need and how they feel. This practice can help you strengthen your connection to Self energy by practicing the qualities of the Self.
3. Parts Mapping: Create a visual map of your parts, identifying their roles, fears, and what they protect. Approach this exercise with curiosity and non-judgment, aiming to understand your inner system better. This can help you recognize when you are blended with a part and need to access Self energy to lead.
4. Self-led Dialogue: Practice having internal dialogues where your Self is the leader speaking to various parts. Approach each part with compassion, ask them what they need, and listen to their concerns. This can help you develop the ability to remain in Self and lead with its qualities.
5. Focus on the 8 Cs: Throughout the day, remind yourself of the 8 Cs and try to embody them in your interactions and decisions. This can be as simple as asking, "What would compassion do?" or "How can I approach this with curiosity?"
6. Body Scanning with Compassion: Perform a body scan, noticing any physical sensations without judgment and with compassion. This encourages connectedness with your body and can help you access Self energy by promoting a non-judgmental, compassionate stance towards yourself.
7. Nature Connection: Spend time in nature, focusing on the sensory experiences around you. Nature can help foster a sense of calmness, connectedness, and clarity, facilitating access to Self energy.
8. Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities such as drawing, painting, writing, or music, without judgment and let your Self lead the process. This can help you tap into your creativity and curiosity, which are essential aspects of Self energy.
Practicing is the key for new habit or behavior, but give yourself time and patience to integrate