Wise words from an elder for your recovery journey. “By listening to the inner self and following one’s instincts and intuitions, a person may be guided to safety, “Dr. A.C. Ross (Ehanamani), LAKOTA (Ross, 2021).
Depending on where you are in your journey in life, whether you’re in recovery or not, or maybe you’re struggling with mental health issues or what we call “life,” we can take this quote in many ways. So, let’s break it down.
What is our inner self?
According to many sources, the inner self can be described as our mind, heart, soul, and spirit. In many Native American belief systems, this could be seen as part of the medicine wheel and our emotional and spiritual needs.
What are instincts and intuitions?
Ironically, instincts and intuitions are separate things. According to many sources, such as the article Difference Between Instinct and Intuition, intuition is the “ability to understand or know something without conscious reasoning,” and instinct is defined as “an inborn tendency, a natural ability.” (Admin, 2015) We all have instincts and intuitions; sometimes, we don’t even know we’re listening or following their guidance throughout our day or maybe in a particular situation. Have you ever entered a room or area that didn’t feel right? That could be an example of either your instincts or intuitions. Because we have been wired for survival, our instincts tell us if something is safe or not, whether we need to fight, freeze, or flee.
What is safety?
Safety is defined as being protected, or in a space or environment where we will not be harmed. Close your eyes and ask yourself, where do I feel safe? What am I doing that makes me feel safe? Is there anyone around me, and do they make me feel safe? Think about your safety in different scenarios and environments, such as at home, school, work, community, or traveling. You’ll find that when you start looking at what helps you feel safe, you might also identify some instincts, intuitions, and your “inner self” guiding your thoughts.
So, now that we have broken down some of the elements of the elder, Dr. A.C. Ross’s quote, it is clear that our ability to find safety can be hindered if we are using substances or experiencing a mental health challenge.
If you want to learn more about your instincts or intuitions, or maybe they’re telling you to seek help and support, don’t hesitate to contact the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Division. And if you need to speak to someone immediately due to a mental health or substance use crisis, please dial 9-8-8. Remember, we have instincts and intuitions for a reason; they are messengers and will help guide you to safety. If you need to talk to someone, please reach out.
It’s okay not to feel okay.
If you or someone you know has been struggling with their emotions, behaviors, or substance use please reach out to us. We can help you find appropriate tools and services that could help you overcome obstacles in your life. We are here for you. Please contact the Southern Ute Behavioral Health Division or the Native Connections Program at 970-563-5700 for more information or to set up an appointment to see a counselor or therapist.
References
Ross, A. C. (2021, June 22). Meditation. Wellbriety Movement. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://wellbriety.com/meditations/
Admin. (2015, May 30). Difference between instinct and Intuition. Compare the Difference Between Similar Terms. Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-instinct-and-vs-intuition/
NEW Nationwide Suicide and Substance Use Crisis line: 9-8-8
Simply calling or texting 988 or chatting 988Lifeline.org will connect you to compassionate care and support for mental health-related distress. #988Lifeline