Beliefs are the filters through which we perceive
reality. Along with instinctual beliefs, such as the belief in basic survival,
and beliefs that society has conditioned into us, we hold beliefs that have
developed from personal experience in meeting life. Many beliefs are irrational,
limiting, and destructive. Once we become aware of them and their counterproductive
nature, we may want to change them – but deliberate change is difficult.
Beliefs are maintained by suppressed feelings
Beliefs are conditioned states of mind, occurring
mostly on the unconscious level. What may be a limiting belief is difficult
to reprogram directly, even with the use of techniques such as affirmations,
because it is held in place by suppressed energy formations; the suppressed
energy supports and maintains the belief.
In our work, we do not attempt directly to uncover
or change unconscious beliefs. I consider such action to be invasive and
disvalidating. Instead, in accepting ourselves, we accept our beliefs as
they are. Processing of feelings will release the energy that is behind
the belief and maintains it. The limiting or destructive belief is outgrown
naturally, instead of in a forced manner.
