One of the most challenging aspects of recovery involves learning to forgive and love ourselves unconditionally. Perhaps you grew up with family that didn’t make you feel loved unconditionally, or maybe you’ve made some choices that makes you feel like you don’t deserve love, not even from yourself. Recovery is a wonderful time to work on this, because it’s a time for you to solely work on getting better and making healthier choices that reflect a loving, balanced, happy inner soul. Deepak Chopra, author of more than 75 books, including 22 New York Times best-sellers, has provided the Huffington Post with some wonderful steps towards unconditional love towards the self:
- Connect with your inner self. This can be through meditation, reflection, etc. Spend a little bit of time each day just connecting with yourself.
- Honestly face your obstacles and resistance. Bring up the painful aspects of yourself that you would typically hide away. Acknowledge that your insecurities and anxiety represent feelings from the past, and recognize that you are human, and you can heal yourself of these feelings.
- Deal with old wounds. Once you have confronted your deep-rooted feelings, you may feel resentment and hurt. Work with a therapist or close friend on this step; someone who will sympathize and respect your journey – someone who has gone through a similar path and has been successful in recovering from it.
- Forgive your past. Accept yourself and the fact that everyone does the best they can with what awareness they have. Recognize that even if someone has hurt you deeply, they are facing their own challenges and may not be able to see outside of their current reality.
- Accept where you are right now. Stay active in being present and accepting who you are today. If you have negative thoughts that bring up feelings from the past, practicing telling yourself that you are simply not that person anymore.
- Form relationships where you feel loved and appreciated. Connect with people who understand and truly appreciate the journey that you are embarking on, for they will be able to sympathize with you and cheer you on as well as provide great support.
- Practice the kind of love you wish to receive. Be kind to yourself. Practice self-care. The love that you show yourself will attract others who can provide you with unconditional love.
If you are seeking a mental health and substance abuse recovery treatment center, call us today at 888-958-7511. Avalon Malibu’s licensed, experienced professionals truly care about restoring your mind, body, and spirit. We want to see you develop tools, overcome your obstacles, and experience the unconditional self-love that you deserve. Make the decision to seek help today. Call us for a consultation.
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