Thoughts for February: Embracing the Self and Being in the Moment

As we move into the month of February, we often find ourselves reflecting on the start of the year and what it holds for us. It’s a time for growth, awareness, and a deepening connection with ourselves. This month, let's explore two powerful concepts that can help guide our journey: the Self with a capital S from Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Being with a capital B, as described by philosopher Martin Heidegger.

In the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, the Self represents the true, compassionate, and calm essence of who we are, untouched by the many "parts" or personas we adopt throughout life. These parts may include our inner critic, perfectionist, or the playful child within. The Self, however, is the wise, grounded presence that holds all these parts with acceptance, leading us toward healing and inner harmony. This month, consider tuning into your Self—the part of you that is whole, centred, and capable of holding space for both your joys and struggles. When you show up as your Self, you embrace your inherent worth and let go of the need for perfection, allowing room for self-compassion.

Heidegger’s concept of Being (with a capital B) reminds us to be fully present in the world. He suggests that Being is not something we can define or grasp fully, but rather, it’s about being—living and experiencing life as it is, without rushing or clinging to specific outcomes. This concept is a call to drop into the present moment, to embrace the here and now with openness. In a world that often pulls us in a thousand directions, Heidegger invites us to pause and reflect: Who am I in this moment? What is it like to just be?

This February, as we navigate the colder days and lighter evenings, let's take the time to be present—whether it’s by grounding ourselves in our Self or by simply allowing ourselves to Be. When we are rooted in our Self, we can experience Being in its purest form: connected, calm, and aware. By embracing both these concepts, we open ourselves up to the possibility of living more authentically and being more deeply engaged in the world around us.

So, as we move through February, let's remember that there’s no need to rush ahead or hold onto rigid expectations. We are already enough, exactly as we are.