The Essence of Self Energy in Internal Family Systems (IFS): A Journey to Peace

The Essence of Self Energy in Internal Family Systems (IFS): A Journey to Peace

In the world of Internal Family Systems (IFS), self energy is a central concept. But what exactly does it feel like? While the model describes self energy through eight defining qualities—calm, curious, compassionate, confident, connected, courageous, clarity, and creativity—the actual essence of self energy can be summed up in one powerful word: peace.

What Is Self Energy?

Self energy is the core of who we are, a state of being that exists beyond our many internal parts. In IFS, we recognize that each of us is made up of different parts, such as managers, exiles, and protectors, but beneath them lies the self, a place we can access for healing and clarity. When we are in self energy, we embody peace, calm, and compassion. It is from this state that we are best able to work with our parts and allow for healing.

The Eight Characteristics of Self Energy

Within IFS, self energy is described using eight key characteristics, often referred to as the “8 C’s”:

• Calm
• Curious
• Compassionate
• Confident
• Connected
• Courageous
• Clarity
• Creativity

When we experience any of these qualities in our lives, we are accessing self energy. However, it’s important to go beyond identifying these traits in our minds. Self energy is something to be felt in the body. Moving from a mental understanding of these characteristics to physically sensing them is key in bringing self energy online and deepening your IFS work.

Peace: The Core of Self Energy

At the heart of self energy lies peace. When we are truly in a state of peace, nothing needs to happen. This is an important part of the IFS process—letting go of urgency and allowing peace to guide the work. If we find parts of ourselves feeling rushed or pressured, it’s essential to acknowledge them and help them relax. Working from a place of urgency can create resistance in our parts and even make the work feel unsafe.

When we are in a peaceful state, we are present in the moment, accepting of whatever comes our way. Challenges, darkness, and difficulty may still exist, but peace allows us to navigate these experiences with a sense of calm and acceptance. In this state, everything is okay.

How to Activate Self Energy

Bringing self energy into our lives doesn’t always require formal IFS protocols. In fact, there are many ways to tap into this state of peace on your own. One simple technique to activate more peace in the body is to breathe in deeply and sigh out loud. This small action can immediately help the body relax and bring more self energy into your system.

To experience self energy in action, reflect on a time in your life when you felt completely at peace. Close your eyes and remember the sights, sounds, and sensations of that moment. How did it feel in your body? For many, these moments of peace happen in nature—by the water, in the woods, or sitting quietly outside.

By reconnecting with these moments of peace, you can begin to bring more of that feeling into your everyday life and your IFS work.

Applying Self Energy to IFS

In IFS, whether you are working with a practitioner or practicing on your own, the goal is to come from a place of self energy. It is within this state that true healing happens, as we connect with and unblend from the parts of ourselves that carry pain, fear, or burden.

Even if you are practicing IFS solo, remember that self energy doesn’t require a specific protocol. By bringing more calm, curiosity, and compassion into your life, you can create an environment where your parts feel safe, and healing can occur.

Explore More

If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of self energy and exploring more ways to activate peace within your system, check out my latest YouTube video where I dive into the topic: What Does Self Energy Feel Like?.

Additionally, I offer a Self-Led IFS Program, designed to help you cultivate self energy and navigate your IFS journey more fully. You can find more information about the program on my website.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the essence of self energy is peace. It’s a gentle, powerful state that is always within reach, whether through formal IFS work or simple daily practices. As you continue on your IFS journey, may you find peace, presence, and acceptance along the way.

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