The Truth About Healing

Marianna Jaross

1.) It can feel clumsy.

You can take a step forward and then back.

Old thoughts, habits, and behaviours may resurface. Your routines might slip, you may fall into old ways of doing things, or life throws you a new challenge.

Being on the path of being a person that you like and can be proud of is a process.

Keep going.

2.) ‘Tests’ may pop up.

Sometimes we are tested, accidentally or not. We may be tempted back into a previous way of being that was not helpful, an old situation may rear its head again, and you may be called to put your healing skills into action.

Feeling challenged and being given the opportunity to implement new ways of being is the point: It may not feel easy, but it doesn’t mean that you’re not progressing.

Sometimes you are ready to practice a new way of being.

3.) Remembering what has worked for you in the past can be helpful.

We all have moments and times in life when we were in alignment: What were you doing? How did you feel? Who were you with?

While you may not be able to replicate the exact situation or circumstance, these are clues as to what is important to you, and how you might be able to unlock your potential.

4.) Sometimes the past is a comfortable blanket: But we are not meant to stay there.

There is a difference between understanding and processing our experiences, and clinging onto them as the only story in our lives: The latter suffocates new energy that would like to be ushered in.

This is not about bypassing negative experiences: It is about learning to process and understand them, while also opening new psychological windows for ourselves.

Yes, there are experiences that define and sometimes impact our lives forever. However, if we can make room for hope, for psychological sunlight, and for new energy to emerge around it; we can create a present and the increased likelihood of a fulfilling future.

5.) We may always have psychological tender spots.

Sometimes our experiences leave us with wounds, and healing leaves us with scar tissue that is more tender and vulnerable. That is ok; and a part of being beautifully human. How we honour those parts and live meaningfully is the work.

6.) Your friendships and who is ‘in your corner’ matters deeply.

I believe that the people closest to us can support us or hinder us. Be mindful of who you allow into your orbit.

7.) Reaching out for support is a strength, and one that you will have to cultivate across your lifespan.

Ask for help when you need it. We all need support throughout our lives.

This is also a part of looking after ourselves.

© Marianna Jaross 2025

Note: This article is independent of my professional associations and workplace(s).