Re-Parenting Yourself

It’s odd: we’re often told that the first three years are the most influential and important years of our lives but… what do we remember of them? Almost nothing! A few blurry recollections that are probably memories of an old photo we’ve seen rather than of the actual event. Given our toileting arrangements perhaps it’s a mercy that we can’t remember, but I actually think it’s sad we’ve forgotten all those cuddles and kisses and piggy-backs and peekaboos. It’s unlikely I will ever be that loved and cared for again… and what do I remember? Nothing… it’s as if it all never happened.
 
But the thing is, it did happen and it made me the man I am today. Research is so clear on this. We learnt to walk and talk during those years and we still remember how to do that; we also learnt that the world is basically a great place with dependable, safe people. Something in us remembers that, too. Our emotions remember. If you can love and relax and feel safe in your own skin, your emotions are remembering … and you can thank your parents.
 
I know some of us didn’t have a great time growing up, and it still affects our emotions and relationships. One of the lovely things about being a parent is that we can re-parent ourselves. When we play and cuddle and care for our little kids, not only does it set them up for a happy life, it helps to heal our hearts too.
 
Maybe the theparentingplace.com can help you in this journey.