There are many different terms that can be used; intuition, inner wisdom, gut feeling or an internal compass – whatever language you use it is a vital part of us that we should be connected to. However, for those with religious trauma or who have been a part of organised religion, tapping into your intuition can be very difficult.
What Is Intuition?
Intuition is like your internal compass, a deep-seated knowing or understanding that doesn’t necessarily come from logical analysis. It’s that gut feeling, that inner voice, or those subtle cues your subconscious mind picks up on. It’s not always easy to explain, but it’s this innate sense that guides you, and often bypasses conscious reasoning. Think of it as your internal wisdom, nudging you in a certain direction.
Understanding the Disconnect
Organised religions often reinforce a reliance on a higher power, external authority, doctrines, and strict belief systems. This external focus can overshadow an individual’s innate sense of knowing, leading to a disconnection from personal intuition. The emphasis on conformity to external rules may leave little room for self-trust and inner exploration.
This was certainly my experience and I was taught that I was fundamentally broken and sinful, that my heart was deceptive and wicked, and that my feelings were not to be trusted and so I learned not to lean on my own understanding but to trust in God alone.
The Intersection with Religious Trauma
Religious trauma compounds this disconnect by undermining an individual’s sense of self-worth and autonomy. The result? A muted internal voice, drowned out by the echoes of dogma and external expectations.
In the aftermath of religious trauma, you may find yourself grappling with a lost or underdeveloped sense of intuition. The journey toward healing involves untangling the web of external influences and rediscovering the authentic self.
Reclaiming your intuition after religious trauma is a profound journey of self-discovery. It involves peeling back the layers of external influence, nurturing self-trust, and embracing the authenticity of your inner voice.
Ways to Reconnect
- Quiet Reflection: Dedicate a few minutes each day to sit in silence. Reflect on your feelings, thoughts, and reactions to recent events. This helps you become more aware of your inner responses.
- Journaling: Write down your thoughts and feelings regularly. Document any hunches or intuitive nudges you experience. Over time, patterns may emerge, providing insights into your intuitive signals.
- Body Scan Meditation: Practice body scan meditations to connect with physical sensations. Notice how different emotions manifest in your body. This awareness can deepen your understanding of your intuition.
- Decision Journal: Create a decision journal. Before making choices, jot down your initial feelings about each option and afterward, reflect on the outcomes and how they align with your initial instincts. This builds a feedback loop for improvement.
- Symbolic Exploration: Use symbols or images to represent your feelings or questions. Create a personal symbolism dictionary and regularly check in with how these symbols evolve over time. It’s a creative way to tap into your subconscious mind.
And Some More..
- Nature Immersion: Spend time in nature. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the woods, or simply sitting by the beach, nature has a way of grounding us and opening up our senses. The natural world can act as a mirror, reflecting our inner state and inviting intuitive insights.
- Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities like art, writing, or music. These outlets provide a channel for subconscious thoughts and feelings to surface. Often, the act of creation itself can be an intuitive process, allowing you to tap into a deeper, less filtered part of yourself.
- Mindful Movement: Incorporate mindful movement practices like yoga or tai chi into your routine. These disciplines not only promote physical well-being but they also encourage a deep mind-body connection. Through focused, intentional movement, you may find that your intuition becomes more pronounced.
- Embrace Silence: Consider periods of time where communication is limited. This intentional silence creates a space for introspection and allows your inner voice to become more audible. It’s a powerful way to strip away external noise and reconnect with your own thoughts and feelings.
- Community Support: Seek out supportive communities or groups that share your values and interests. Connecting with like-minded individuals can create a safe space for authentic expression. Sharing experiences and insights with others can validate your own intuitions and foster a sense of community on your journey.
Connect
If reconnecting with the intuitive parts of yourself is important and you feel that your religious trauma or upbringing is impacting that, consider reaching out to see whether therapy could be helpful.
You can reach out by using this Contact Form or if you would like to more reflections around religious trauma you can connect with me over on Instagram @anchoredcounsellingservices or on Facebook