The Continuous Path of Healing: An Unending Journey of Self-Work
Healing doesn’t adhere to deadlines; it’s an ongoing, deliberate process that demands constant effort. Therapist Israa Nasir emphasises the importance of actively confronting and processing challenging emotions or experiences in the pursuit of closure, understanding, and personal growth. Healing involves engaging with awareness, building trust, and exercising patience.
Contrary to the misconception that avoidance leads to healing, Nasir sheds light on the fallacy of suppressing emotions.
Avoidance behaviours, often mistaken for healing, manifest in various patterns:
- Engaging in Excessive Work:
In response to hurt or trauma, individuals often immerse themselves in excessive work, using it as a distraction to avoid facing emotional pain.
- Postponing or Avoiding Difficult Conversations:
Conversations addressing family conflicts or discussing trauma with loved ones are frequently postponed or avoided due to the discomfort associated with these topics, hindering genuine healing.
- Repeating positive affirmations:
Without instigating conscious changes, individuals may resort to repeating positive affirmations, creating a superficial illusion of healing without delving into underlying issues.
- Constantly setting new goals:
Continuously establishing new goals without actively working towards them provides a deceptive sense of progress. True healing requires deliberate effort and introspection.
Nasir’s insights underscore the significance of addressing and processing emotions, fostering understanding, and implementing strategies for comprehensive well-being. The journey of healing is an ongoing process that necessitates sincerity and a commitment to continuous self-work. The misconception of avoiding the root causes of trauma as a path to healing is debunked, emphasising the need for an active, mindful approach to emotional well-being.
The therapist’s guidance serves as a reminder that healing is not a destination but a continuous voyage, requiring individuals to navigate their emotions with honesty and dedication for sustained personal growth.