The Layers We Carry: Why Healing Starts Within
- Arti Khanna
- May 2
- 3 min read
One of Buddha's core teachings is that "we suffer because we forget who we are." This simple truth holds deep meaning. From the moment we’re born, we arrive in the world pure, open, and full of light. But as life unfolds, we accumulate experiences that shape us—both beautifully and painfully.
We navigate love, loss, expectations, and change. And somewhere along the way, we begin to adapt. We learn to protect ourselves. We guard our hearts. We survive. And in doing so, we slowly start layering on emotional armour—beliefs, habits, and responses that once served a purpose.
The Purpose of Emotional Layers
In our most vulnerable moments, these layers keep us safe. We may develop perfectionism to gain approval, shut down emotionally to avoid pain, or stay busy to distract from grief. These responses are intelligent. They are the body and mind doing what they can to carry us through.
But what happens when these old strategies begin to hold us back? When they start to interfere with our peace, our relationships, our connection to ourselves?
Like a thick jumper worn to protect against the cold, emotional layers can become heavy and constricting when worn too long. They keep us distant from our own joy, self-trust, and wholeness. And yet, we may not realise we’re still wearing them.
Signs of emotional layering may include:
Persistent anxiety or emotional overwhelm
Difficulty setting boundaries
Recurring patterns in relationships
A constant sense of being "stuck"
A disconnect between who you are and how you're living
Returning to Your Inner Self
Healing is not about ripping these layers off. It’s about becoming aware of them, gently and with care.
Through holistic coaching, we create a compassionate space to begin this process of peeling back what no longer serves you. I work exclusively with women to explore the emotional, mental, and energetic patterns at play. We work with the mind, body, emotions, and spirit, because each is part of your inner landscape.
In our sessions, there is no pressure to be anything other than who you are. Instead, we explore your story, your wounds, and your wisdom—together. I may also draw gently on my intuitive gifts as a psychic, medium, and medical intuitive, if something meaningful arises during our work.
The goal isn’t to fix you. You are not broken. The goal is to help you remember what’s always been there: your inner light, your truth, your strength.
Learn more about what this inward journey can look like here.
What Shifts When We Heal the Layers
Clients often tell me that healing didn’t look the way they expected. It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t dramatic. It was a quiet unraveling. A steady return.
As layers begin to lift, you may notice:
A calmer, more regulated nervous system
Clarity where confusion once lived
Space to breathe, feel, and respond
A sense of groundedness in your choices
More trust in your inner voice
Healing can look like saying no without guilt. Taking rest without shame. Speaking your truth. Softening your shoulders. Meeting yourself with kindness.
And over time, you realise you no longer need the jumper you once wrapped yourself in. You can thank it. And gently take it off.
Read what others have shared about this process. Client Stories
xx
Your Friend, Arti
A Gentle First Step
This journey inward is personal, sacred, and uniquely yours. But you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to explore what healing could look like for you, I invite you to take the first step. Book a free Discovery Call and let’s begin—together.
