"Make Love of Your Self Perfect”, with Tara Brach

Recent questions

• How can self-judgment impact our relationships?

  Self-judgment creates an abyss that locks us in suffering and distances us from others. When we constantly criticize and judge ourselves, it becomes challenging to connect authentically with those around us. This habit of self-judgment not only affects our self-esteem but also hinders our ability to form meaningful relationships. By focusing on loving ourselves into healing and freedom, we can break free from this cycle of self-criticism and reconnect with our basic goodness, fostering healthier interactions with others.

• What is the importance of belonging to human survival?

  Belonging is fundamental to human survival as severed belonging leads to fear and self-soothing behaviors like overconsumption or self-harm. When we feel disconnected or isolated, it triggers a primal response that threatens our well-being. The need for belonging is deeply ingrained in us, shaping our behaviors and emotions. Recognizing and nurturing a sense of belonging is crucial for our mental and emotional health, allowing us to feel secure and supported in our relationships and communities.

• How can chronic self-monitoring affect our presence?

  Chronic self-monitoring leads to a sense of not being fully present, as we are constantly preoccupied with evaluating ourselves and others. This habit of monitoring our thoughts, actions, and appearance can create a barrier to experiencing the present moment fully. By acknowledging and naming this monitoring, we can begin to detach from it and cultivate a greater sense of mindfulness. Letting go of the need to constantly judge ourselves allows us to be more present and engaged in our daily experiences.

• What is the concept of spiritual reparenting?

  Spiritual reparenting involves trusting one's inherent goodness and overcoming the closed heart that hinders self-love. This process entails nurturing and caring for oneself in a way that fosters self-compassion and acceptance. By re-parenting ourselves with love and kindness, we can heal past wounds and cultivate a deeper sense of self-worth. Embracing our inherent goodness and letting go of self-judgment allows us to dissolve the illusion of separation and connect with the boundless tenderness within us.

• How can the RAIN meditation technique help with self-judgment?

  The RAIN meditation technique, focusing on recognizing, allowing, investigating, and nurturing, can address the trance of unworthiness and self-judgment. By acknowledging and accepting our feelings of self-doubt and aversion, we can explore the underlying beliefs and emotions that contribute to these patterns. Through gentle investigation and self-compassion, we can nurture ourselves with kindness and understanding, gradually shifting from self-judgment to self-love. This practice can lead to a realization of being the loving awareness that holds our lives, fostering a sense of freedom and acceptance.