IFS involves interacting with parts to release them from maladaptive patterns and mend relationships between them. This interaction is (usually) done from a state called Self.
Self is not any of your parts, but a state that emerges when all parts agree to “step back”. The presence of Self is what allows parts to heal from trauma and release their burdens.
Self is usually conceptualized as a state of raw Presence or as a person’s innate nature. You do not have to learn to be Self, and your Self cannot be damaged or taken from you.
All humans innately have the qualities of Self. When in a state where Self is predominant,
- Calm
- Clarity
- Curiosity
- Compassion
- Confidence
- Courage
- Creativity
- Connectedness
Other names for Self include Presence, Higher Self, Essence, Consciousness, Awareness, Wise Mind, No-Self, Inner Light…
Who are you stardust? Who have we found out there in the darkness and the light beyond what can be comfortably and verifiably known? Extrapolate far enough and you eventually find yourself again, because you are what is doing that extrapolation, it could not be any other way.