Pathway to Healing—Step 5: Look for Patterns

Encouragement

Seeing patterns in your memories helps reveal themes, lessons, and parts of yourself you might not have noticed. This step helps you recognize the underlying threads of meaning that connect your experiences.

Spiritual Practice: Labyrinth Walk or Finger Meditation

If possible, take a mindful labyrinth walk, reflecting on the patterns of your life as you move. If a labyrinth isn’t available, trace a finger labyrinth or use your finger to draw spirals on paper. Imagine each twist as a pattern in your life, asking, “What patterns do I see, and what are they teaching me?”

Creative Writing Exercise

After writing about several memories, review them and highlight any recurring emotions, themes, or people. Jot down any common experiences, such as “learning independence” or “finding my voice.” Notice what these patterns may be teaching you, and list any emerging themes or questions about your journey.

Non-Writing Creative Exercise: Vision Board

Create a vision board with photos, colors, textures, and symbols that represent recurring themes or patterns in your life. Arrange these items on a board or poster, focusing on visuals that resonate with the lessons or themes you’ve identified. This vision board can serve as a visual anchor for recognizing and embracing these life patterns.