Let’s talk about shame shall we? A difficult subject…….

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We all experience shame to different degrees. Those painful moments of feeling exposed or rejected and all you want is to disappear. Shame often takes root in our belief that we are fundamentally flawed. Unlike guilt, which focuses on our behavior (“I did something bad”), shame focuses on identity (“I am bad”). If you are struggling with shame – you are not alone. Shame thrives in secrecy, isolating us from the connections that could help us heal. When left unchecked, it perpetuates cycles of fear and self-doubt, keeping us stuck in patterns that feel impossible to break.

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Shame can manifest in many ways:

• Perfectionism: the belief that if we appear perfect, we’ll avoid judgment.

• People-pleasing: bending ourselves into shapes to gain approval.

• Silence and secrecy: the fear that speaking up will lead to rejection.

• Self-criticism: that inner voice that questions our worthiness at every turn.

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Building shame resilience:

It isn’t about eliminating shame – it’s about learning to navigate it with courage, self-compassion, and connection. Reiki can be a wonderful tool in addressing shame and promoting self healing. Reiki can help release trapped emotions or blocks and create a sense of calm, which can be helpful in dealing with the underlying feelings of shame and self-doubt. Reiki can support the healing process and foster self-compassion.

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Here’s how Reiki might help with shame and its associated feelings:

• Chakra Balancing: the solar plexus chakra which is associated with self-esteem and confidence, can be impacted by shame. Reiki can help balance this chakra and restore a sense of control and empowerment

• Emotional Healing: Reiki promotes a deep sense of relaxation and well-being, which can be helpful in processing and releasing negative emotions associated with shame.

• Self-Compassion: Reiki can foster a deeper connection to oneself, leading to increased self-awareness and compassion. This can help individuals to move away from self-criticism and embrace their worthiness.

• Creating a safe space: Reiki sessions provide a safe and nurturing environment for individuals to explore their feelings and emotions, fostering a sense of trust and allowing for deeper healing.

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More resources: 

Brene Brown has a great book about worthiness: Men, Women & Worthiness

I’ll close with a quote from Brene:

“If we share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.”

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BIG HUGS,

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Janet