I initially heard about this month’s central topic when the publisher asked the contributing writers to submit “nostalgic” photos of ourselves from the 1960s. My first thought was, “Oh no, what the heck can I offer that will be interesting and not be depressing to our readers?”
You see, I had an extremely tough childhood. As a result, most of the snapshots that I have of me, in my family photo album, aren’t exactly “playful and carefree.” So, now you probably understand why I wasn’t thrilled by the request to submit a photo of myself from the sixties. However, after hearing Eric’s sincere enthusiasm, I decided to see if I could come up with something.
Hesitantly, I retrieved my childhood photo album from the highest shelf in my bedroom closet. I wiped the dust off the aging cover and sat down with it cradled in my arms. I took a deep breath and slowly opened it. As I leafed through the first few pages, I remembered the heaviness that my tiny heart had carried each day.
Then, I turned another page and there it was, a snapshot of me during the sixties that I’d completely forgotten about; a “nostalgic” childhood photo that I actually felt good about sharing in Alive. Yay—mission accomplished!
As you can see in the photo, I’m playing dress-up and having a bit of fun, expressing my “old soul” nature. Now, let’s fast forward and begin to “connect the dots” of this photo with my work today. In my private practice, many of the “stre
ss reduction” referrals that I receive from doctors and psychotherapists, are people who also had challenging childhoods. For this reason, during early conversations with new clients I often ask, “What external resources in your childhood made you feel safe and lovable?”
In my own case, without a doubt, my greatest external “childhood resource” was my Grandma Rose (thus the inspiration for my dress-up ensemble). Whenever I looked into her big brown eyes, I felt deeply, unconditionally loved.
Over twenty years ago, when I first stepped onto a personal growth path, I reconnected with how important Grandma Rose was to me as a child. I got in touch with how much of her unconditional love I still carry in my heart. After identifying Grandma Rose’s vital impact on me, I decided to make a doll to honor her (unfortunately, she’d already passed away).
In a local craft store, I found a small, blank canvas, pre-sewn doll. I painted Grandma Rose’s portrait on the face and added silver hair. Then, I decorated the doll’s plain canvas dress with large red roses. Thinking about Grandma Rose brings a smile to my face and warms my heart.
And, that response is why I encourage my clients to emotionally reconnect with their early sources of love and security. Because, being in touch with our positive “childhood anchors” often helps us feel more securely rooted in our lives today (yes, caring neighbors, pets, and teachers count).
Finally, if you are interested in nourishing and strengthening your positive resources, call me to discuss the tools I offer, which include hypnotherapy, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and dream work. These self-empowerment tools have helped many of my clients connect to their “timeless touchstones” and helped them to remember that they are lovable and not alone.
Join Trina and attend her Walnut Creek workshop for women and men: Managing Emotional and Compulsive Eating—John Muir Women’s Health Center: Wednesday, June 5, 6:30-8:30 pm. Cost: $40. Seats are limited—register today: (925) 941-7900 option 3. For more info, go to www.TrinaSwerdlow.com & click on “Private Sessions & Workshops.”
Trina Swerdlow, BFA, CCHT, is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, an artist, and the author and illustrator of Stress Reduction Journal. She currently has a private practice in downtown Danville. You can reach her at: (925) 285-5759, or info@TrinaSwerdlow.com. To receive Trina’s inspiring FREE newsletter “Transformational Tips for Mindful Living.” Sign-up here: www.TrinaSwerdlow.com
Certified Clinical Hypnotherapy services in California can be alternative or complementary to licensed healing arts, such as psychotherapy.
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