What is Healing?

What is Healing? A Deep Dive into Human Needs

What is healing? Such a great question! To truly understand what we are healing, let's start by examining our basic human needs as outlined by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This well-known psychological theory provides a framework for understanding the different levels of human needs, from the most basic physiological needs to the higher-level self-actualization needs.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

1. Physiological Needs: These are the fundamental requirements for human survival, including food, water, rest, clothing, and shelter.

2. Safety Needs: Once physiological needs are met, the focus shifts to safety needs, which encompass protection from violence, theft, emotional stability, health, and financial security.

3. Love and Belonging Needs: Human beings have an innate desire for social interaction and connections with family and friends.

4. Esteem Needs: This level involves self-respect and the respect of others, fostering a sense of accomplishment and recognition.

5. Self-Actualization Needs: At the top of the hierarchy, self-actualization involves fulfilling one's full potential and refining personal talents.

Expanding the List with Charles Whitfield's Perspective

Now, let’s delve deeper by incorporating insights from Charles Whitfield, an American medical doctor specializing in assisting survivors of childhood trauma and individuals with addictions. In his book "Healing the Child Within," Whitfield provides an in-depth list of human needs that many might not have fully received during childhood. Understanding these needs helps us recognize what aspects of ourselves may require healing.

1. Survival

2. Safety

3. Touching (Skin Contact)

4. Attention

5. Mirroring and Echoing

6. Guidance

7. Listening, Being Real

8. Participating

9. Acceptance of Yourself – The Real You

10. Belonging and Acceptance

11. Tolerance of Your Feelings

12. Opportunity to Grieve Losses and Grow

13. Support

14. Loyalty and Trust

15. Accomplishment

16. Making Contributions

17. Altering One’s State of Consciousness

18. Sexuality

19. Enjoyment of Fun

20. Freedom

21. Nurturing

22. Unconditional Love

Signs of Inner Peace

When we address and fulfill these needs, both from Maslow's hierarchy and Whitfield's comprehensive list, we pave the way for true healing. So, what would signs of inner peace feel like?

• Calmness: A serene state of mind, free from anxiety and excessive worry.

• Self-Acceptance: Embracing who you are without judgment or self-criticism.

• Emotional Stability: Experiencing a balanced range of emotions without being overwhelmed by negative feelings.

• Healthy Relationships: Forming and maintaining meaningful, supportive, and loving connections with others.

• Fulfillment: Engaging in activities and pursuits that align with your true self and values.

• Resilience: The ability to bounce back from life's challenges and setbacks.

• Gratitude: A sense of thankfulness and appreciation for life's experiences and the people around you.

• Contentment: Feeling satisfied with what you have and who you are.

Healing is a journey that involves addressing and meeting our diverse needs, understanding our past traumas, and fostering a deeper connection with our true selves. By recognizing and fulfilling these needs, we move closer to a state of inner peace and well-being.