Listening to a podcast episode on body dysmorphia, disordered eating, and embodiment (Back From the Abyss, 12/2/2021) – a beautiful story of returning to home within one’s own body. I am really moved by the compassion the story teller had for herself, and how connecting to her body and discovering/noticing what feels good was an essential part of her healing journey. And inspired by the role psychedelic mushrooms played in her healing process – allowing her to connect with her inner child and what her body was asking for and experiencing playfulness. An important part of that was quietening her inner critic. And after the mushroom experience, her meditation practice included getting to know and quietening the inner critic, and being its friend. In the befriending, offering it love and compassion and recognizing that it was trying to protect her, instead of trying to banish it, the critic got quieter and her relationship with that part of her transformed. She also recognized that the inner critic has been a voice passed down through the generations of her family. It is such a beautiful story of transformation through compassion and love. Most of this podcast, hosted by Dr. Craig Heacock, is stories of healing through love and relationship – I highly recommend it. If you are curious to read more about befriending your inner critic, please see my blog post here.
