Some of the basic needs of childhood are love and emotional connection, however many of us grow up without these needs being adequately met. This lack of connection can have devastating physical and psychological consequences, as well as lead to a lack of connection in adulthood, often leading to failed relationships, depression, addiction and physical illness. Unfortunately, trying to get this connection from others, rather than learning to connect with ourselves, can lead to many personal and relationship problems.

It is only through a healthy connection with ourselves that we can learn to avoid the feelings of abandonment that were felt in childhood. This type of healthy connection is learned through self-awareness, self-compassion and learning how to avoid self-abandonment by participating in unhealthy behaviors.

Taking a body, mind, soul and social approach is the first step to begin the process of self-connection. When we take responsibility for our own well-being and we open to learning about loving ourselves, we open the opportunity for connecting with an infinite source of love. Learning to acknowledge one’s own self-worth and find love within and share it with others creates deep inner fulfillment.

It is only through this type of self-care that depression turns into happiness, boredom turns into creativity, unhappy relationships become about sharing love, physical illness turns into health and addiction turns into self-regulation.

Jo Ruddy, Ph.D., is the Director of Spiritual Services at Transformational Concepts, PLLC, which includes the Discovery Project. She has 30 years of experience in the helping profession. Connect at 520-209-1755, [email protected] or AddictionToConnection.com. See ads, pages 2 & 22.