A leopard can’t change their spots right? WRONG!

Neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, explains why humans can change patterns of thoughts and behaviours. This adaptability allows the brain to learn new skills, recover from injuries, and adjust to new experiences. By engaging in repetitive practice, setting clear intentions, and using techniques like mindfulness, we can strengthen desired neural pathways and weaken old, shitty ones that hold us back from who we want to be and what we want to experience in our precious lives. Nothing is set in stone, hurrah!

In this blog I’ve outlined 5 steps you can take to grow whilst nurturing your inner and outer worlds.

Step 1: Acknowledge Your Past and Your Shadow Self

The first step is to acknowledge your past and your shadow self. This involves recognising the experiences, both good and bad, that have shaped who you are today. It's about understanding yourself on a deeper level and feeling gratitude for the whole spectrum of your emotional landscape and the challenges you've overcome.

Take time to reflect on your life journey. What have been the significant moments of growth? What challenges have you faced and conquered? By shining a compassionate light on your shadows, you can work through them, release any lingering negativity, and embrace the strength that comes from your experiences.

Journal Prompt: Write about a challenge you faced in the past and how it has shaped the person you are today. What are you grateful for about this experience?

Step 2: Create a Sense of Safety in the Present

Once you've acknowledged your past, it's essential to create a sense of safety in the present. This involves ensuring stability in your external environment, such as your finances, home, and relationships (which I appreciate is not always easy) It also means cultivating an internal sense of safety using practices like breathwork and polyvagal techniques.

These practices help regulate your nervous system and give you a sense of calm and security within your body. When you feel safe and grounded, you can navigate life's ups and downs with greater ease and resilience.

Exercise: Try a simple breathwork practice. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take slow, deep breaths. Inhale for a count of four, hold for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, and hold for a count of four. Repeat for several minutes and notice how your body feels.

Step 3: Be Willing to Let Go of Old Versions of Yourself

Change is a constant part of life, and to grow, we must be willing to let go of old versions of ourselves. Understand that there are different chapters for different things in our lives, and at any point, we have the power to change who we are and what we want.

Embrace the idea that transformation is a natural and necessary part of your journey. Release any attachments to outdated beliefs, habits, or identities that no longer serve you. By doing so, you create space for new possibilities and opportunities to arise.

Affirmation: "I release the old and embrace the new. I am open to transformation and growth."

Step 4: Have Courage to Move Forward

Stepping into a new version of yourself requires courage. Know that you can do hard things and that every step forward, no matter how small, is a victory. Courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move forward despite it.

Trust in your inner strength and resilience. Remind yourself of the times you've faced challenges and come out stronger on the other side. Use these experiences as fuel to propel you forward on your path of growth.

Visualisation: Close your eyes and visualize a time when you felt strong and capable. Hold onto that feeling and carry it with you as you move forward.

Step 5: The Obstacle Is the Path, Keep Going!

Finally, remember that the obstacle is the path. Every challenge, setback, and obstacle you encounter is an opportunity for growth and learning. Instead of viewing difficulties as roadblocks, see them as stepping stones that guide you towards your goals.

Keep going, even when the journey feels tough. Trust that each step you take is leading you closer to a happier, calmer, and more fulfilled version of yourself. Embrace the journey with an open heart and a resilient spirit.

Mantra: "The obstacle is the path. I am resilient and keep moving forward."

Conclusion

By acknowledging your past, creating safety in the present, letting go of old versions of yourself, having the courage to move forward, and seeing obstacles as opportunities, you can learn to feel more at peace with your past and have more confidence and optimism as you look to your future. Embrace this journey with patience, compassion, and an unwavering belief in your ability to rise.

With Love

Lizzie X

P.s. If you’d love to explore this with me you can do so inside the Cyclical Yogi Studio, where we have a whole month dedicated to exactly this! We have yoga flows, meditations, breathwork, EFT (tapping) & guided journalling practices to help you embody and follow the steps of Root To Rise. I’d love you to join me, head HERE for a 14 day free trial.