It is often said that we come into this world with all of the knowledge we need to thrive in life, yet over time, external factors strip us of this innate knowing.
As children, we are deeply connected to our intuition, creativity, and a pure sense of self. We instinctively know how to express emotions, seek joy, and explore the world with wonder. However, as we grow, societal expectations, cultural conditioning, and external pressures begin to shape us. We learn to prioritize fitting in over standing out, to suppress our true feelings to meet expectations, and to measure our worth through external achievements rather than internal fulfillment.
This stripping away of our innate knowing often leaves us disconnected from our true selves. We start to question our instincts, doubt our abilities, and lose sight of the natural wisdom that once guided us. Instead, we navigate life based on what we should do, rather than what feels right or aligns with our inner truth.
Yet, this loss of connection is not permanent. Through intentional practices like mindfulness, self-reflection, yoga, and holistic wellness, we can begin the journey back to ourselves. We can unlearn the narratives that no longer serve us and reconnect with the inner wisdom that was always there, patiently waiting to be rediscovered.
This process is not about rejecting society or its norms entirely but about finding harmony—learning to honor the wisdom within while engaging with the world in an authentic way. When we strip away the layers of societal conditioning, we begin to remember who we are, reclaiming the clarity, joy, and sense of purpose that were always ours to begin with.
As a yoga teacher and holistic wellness practitioner, this quote deeply resonates with me because it aligns with the essence of yoga and self-discovery. Yoga isn’t just about physical postures; it’s a journey inward, peeling back the layers of conditioning, expectations, and false identities we’ve accumulated over time.
Often, we strive to “become” something or someone, driven by external pressures or societal definitions of success. But true growth happens when we release those layers—un-becoming the masks and roles that don’t serve our true essence. This process mirrors the practice of yoga, where we connect with our breath, quiet the mind, and gently let go of what no longer aligns with our authentic self.
In holistic wellness, the same principle applies. Healing isn’t just adding more to our lives; it’s about creating space, removing toxins—physical, mental, or emotional—and returning to a state of balance and wholeness. This un-becoming allows us to reconnect with who we were meant to be before fear, doubt, and external influences clouded our sense of self.
Paulo Coelho’s words remind us that our essence is already within us, whole and perfect. The journey isn’t about searching outward but turning inward, trusting the process, and allowing ourselves to be.
So the next time you find yourself spiralling down a rabbit hole of self-doubt, pause for a moment and ask yourself what else could be true? What other possibilities could become your narrative? Remember, everything you need to know already exists within you. 🤍
Nourish Your Body, Mind + Soul 