Once you have connected with your inner child, the next thing to do is validate their feelings about their childhood experiences. This process can be painful and might be best done with a therapist. Over time, your inner child needs to be given permission to play and have fun, to discover what makes them truly happy and to bring back the playfulness they missed out on in their childhood. You might discover new hobbies and passions as you allow yourself to play in a new way. As an adult, I discovered that I LOVE to dance (just to pop music with friends or in the kitchen – nothing serious), and this is a powerful way for me to connect to my inner child. As a child, I didn’t feel I had much space to play and be silly, so as an adult, I give myself some time for this as part of my self-care. I find it lightens my outlook, brings laughter and joy, and generally makes me happier.