We often speak about “coping mechanisms” in a negative way because the truth is, these can turn into deeply ingrained habits, “bad habits” that hold us back and keep us from growing. And the next term that often follows coping mechanism is “self-sabotage”, and I vehemently rebel against this description! I object!
There is nothing within you, that has the desire to sabotage you…
… of course it can be true that we have old coping mechanisms that no longer serve us, that prevent growth. But we have to start with the understanding that our survival adaptations are designed to keep us alive, our old programming will do anything at all to provide us with a sense of being able to cope.
There was a time where your “coping mechanism” might have literally kept you alive and that needs to be honoured, not judged. This doesn’t negate the fact that things are going to have to change if you are to move forward. There might be really hard work ahead, but start with self-compassion, not self-hatred.
“Our survival adaptations are so tough, but our wounds are so delicate. To heal, we have to lift the armor carefully- it saved our lives, after all. It’s like moving your best friend off to the side of the path. You don’t trample on her, you don’t hit her with a sledgehammer. You honor her presence like a warm blanket that has kept you safe and sound during wintry times. And then, when the moment is right, you get inside and stitch your wounds with the thread of love, slowly and surely, not rushing to completion, nurturing as you weave, tender and true. The healing process has a heart of its own, moving at its own delicate pace. We are such wondrous weavers…” – Jeff Brown
“I am so tired of how hard we are on ourselves. Not attractive enough, not smart enough, not cool enough, not purpose-full enough, not spiritual enough, not flexible enough, not creative enough, not rich enough, not happy enough, not healthy enough, not sexy enough, not wise enough. It’s like a collective shame fest that begins when we are born and continues until we die. So much magnificent life is lost when it is swept under a mountain of shame. Billions of us walking around convinced we are not ‘something enough.’ We are missing the point. Just staying alive on this planet is a great achievement, demanding that we sift through all of the ‘not-enough’ inner chatter to find a reason to go on. How about if we begin every day with an ‘I am enough’ meditation? Let’s begin right now: I am enough! I am enough. I AM ENOUGH.” – Jeff Brown
“I bow to those who keep their hearts open when it is most difficult, those who refuse to keep their armor on any longer than they have to, those who recognize the courage at the heart of vulnerability. After all the malevolent warriors end each other, the open-hearted will inherit the earth.” – Jeff Brown
Today’s meditation can totally be considered an “I am enough” meditation. Join us and revel in the sensory experience that your amazing human body provides you. Take a moment to show gratitude for this divine vehicle you were gifted and remind your human form that you really are worthy and enough just as you are.
Guiding mantras for self-reflection:
- Honor Your Past: Acknowledge the role your coping mechanisms played in keeping you alive.
- Embrace Self-Compassion: Release self-judgment and cultivate kindness towards yourself.
- Explore New Possibilities: Gently explore if your coping mechanisms still serve you, and be open to adopting new behaviour in wisdom.
- I Am Enough: Repeat this powerful affirmation daily. You are worthy, just as you are.
Remember, you are not broken. You are a survivor, and within you lies the strength to heal and grow. Embrace your journey with kindness and love. By honoring your past and embracing self-compassion, you pave the way for a future filled with growth and possibility.
Have a good weekend peeps!
– pierre –
Today’s LIVE meditation is: Come to your senses.