What are the ways / exercises that can heal your inner child?

This can be very hard to tap into, especially with the fear coming from your inner child. The first step would be to acknowledge that inner child and explore where that fear is coming from. What scares that inner child about being seen? What is he/she afraid of will happen if he/she is seen?

Being able to understand that can help build security which can lead to bonding, connection and safety. The journey of acknowledging and getting to know your inner child is accepting and recognizing the things that caused you pain or hurt during your childhood. It will be important to listen to what your inner child has to say and is feeling, too. Try to take the approach of curiosity, support, and ongoing conversations including, "How do you feel?" "What do you need from me?" or "How can I support/help you?"

Implementing relaxation, playfulness, and fun will also be important to connect to that inner child and be able to grow into your authentic self.

Finding your authentic self is finding who you really are deep down. This part is what can help you build meaningful relationships and genuine happiness in your life. Being authentic to yourself also leads to your words, behaviors, and actions matching up with your core identity, beliefs, and values. To get here, you will need to have that believe and trust in yourself.

Here are some tips to find your authentic self:

1.) Explore when you feel the most authentic. What makes you feel the happiest and the most alive? What makes you feel upset, triggered, unhappy, or like you have to hide your true self?

2.) Try to be grounded and present. Increase self-awareness and how connected you are in each moment. What are some signs you are being your authentic self and when you are not?

3.) Implement tapping into authenticity daily. Every day set aside time for yourself to address your needs, personal goals, your priorities, hobbies, interests, and self care.

4.) Find and build your support system. Surround yourself with those who are authentic and support you being authentic as well.

There are several different steps to get here, but this is what can start the process and then you can build from there.

I would also encourage you to watch this Ted Talk video by Brene Brown on vulnerability and authenticity:

https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability