Inner Child Energy Clearing & Cord Cutting Techniques

A central aspect of The Inner Council’s Inner Child work is learning how to perceive, move, and transform subtle energy. As we develop a relationship with the receptivity of the heart, intention becomes a catalytic force—an imaginative gesture that begins to generate real shifts. Over time, these shifts become easier to sense. What once felt abstract becomes tangible: we notice the direction of our attention, the texture of the energetic field, and the relational dynamics we are resolving.

During shamanic-style guided journeys, these descriptions often move quickly. The subconscious communicates in images and sensations far faster than the rational mind. Because of this, a single regression can bring insight, restructuring, and emotional release in a short period of time.

From birth to about age two, the brain operates in Delta waves (0.5–4 Hz). Between ages two and six, Theta waves dominate (4–8 Hz), a state associated with deep receptivity, imagination, and a hypnotic openness similar to dream states or light psychedelic states in adults. Around ages five to eight, the child transitions into Alpha waves (8–13 Hz), where attention sharpens and self-awareness begins to form.

Different theorists describe these developmental stages differently, but one simple framework comes from German poet and cultural theorist Jean Gebser:
Archaic → Magical → Mythic.
Ken Wilber’s Integral Theory later integrates similar models.

What matters for our work is this:
Children under seven are in a highly impressionable, symbolic, energetic mode of perception. They absorb emotional tone, unspoken tension, relational patterns, and subtle cues long before they can consciously interpret them.

To integrate unresolved childhood energies, we must reconnect with the tools that operate in that same symbolic layer. These tools allow us to release or renegotiate the “subject–object contracts” formed with people, situations, or internalized archetypes. Every pattern contains:

• you
• your will
• your circumstance
• and “the other”—a person, influence, or internal conflict you interfaced with.

Once these elements are identified, the Inner Child can participate in repairing, clearing, or severing the energetic link. In the beginning, our toolkit is small and simple, and repetition is key. Over time, new techniques arise spontaneously—introduced by your Inner Child, suggested by a practitioner, or offered by archetypal allies within the Inner Village.

Many shamanic traditions offer daily energy-cleansing practices to maintain clarity and grounding. These are not optional extras—they are essential when engaging in deep spiritual or emotional work.

Identify what tools and rituals resonate with you, and also ask your Inner Child what feels supportive. Gentle practices such as smudging with sage or incense, intentional breathwork, or visualizing light can be helpful.

Be mindful with crystals: although beautiful, not all stones are aligned with every person’s energetic field. In deep medicine settings we have witnessed stones being intuitively rejected or removed by spiritual intelligence, while others—such as clear quartz and amethyst clusters—often receive attention. When in doubt, ask your Inner Child or your practitioner before working with a new stone.

Cord clearing (or cutting) is a shamanic technique used to release energetic contracts or repetitive psychic/emotional loops with another person or situation. If you find yourself fixating on someone, replaying scenarios, or feeling emotionally entangled long after the event has passed, this often signals an un-cleared energetic cord.

You may need cord clearing when you feel:

In many traditions, cord cutting is carried out in a lightly altered state—meditative, ceremonial, prayerful. A symbolic tool is used to “cut” the energetic line: a hand gesture, a stick, a knife, or any object that represents severance and protection. Your Inner Child can mirror your movement with their own imaginative tool, which strengthens their agency and helps recalibrate the emotional field. If you repeatedly sense that a certain relationship or memory is energetically active, speak with your practitioner. They can help you track, interpret, and release these cords safely.

Advanced Technique: The Three-Layer Cord Release

For situations that feel deeply embedded, long-term, or emotionally complex.

This practice works across three layers of the energetic field—emotional, symbolic, and archetypal. It is best used after completing the basic form at least once.

1. The Emotional Layer — Clearing the Feeling Imprint

Sit in stillness with your Inner Child beside you.
Identify the core feeling connected to the person or situation: fear, shame, longing, anger, grief, confusion.

Ask your Inner Child:
“Where does this feeling live in your body?”

Place your hand where they point. Visualize the cord emerging directly from that emotional center. With a slow, deliberate gesture, cut or dissolve the cord together. Let the emotion surface and move without suppression.

2. The Symbolic Layer — Releasing the Story

Next, ask your Inner Child to show you the symbol that represents this connection:

• a rope
• a chain
• a thread
• a hook
• a shadow
• a contract
• or an object they create spontaneously

This symbol often reveals deeper meaning.

Hold the symbol in your hands (physically or imaginally) and say aloud or inwardly:
“This story is complete. We return what does not belong to us.”

Then dissolve, burn, bury, or release the symbolic object using whatever gesture feels right. Allow your Inner Child to choose their own method — their choice is essential.

3. The Archetypal Layer — Reclaiming Power & Sovereignty

Finally, step into the archetypal field of the Inner Village.

Invite an Inner Village helper—Elder, Guardian, Healer, or Creator—to stand with you and the Inner Child.
Ask them to illuminate the archetypal dynamic below the surface:

• rescuer–victim
• parent–child
• pursuer–avoider
• judge–accused
• dependent–controller
• or another pattern your Inner Child names

Have the helper place a hand upon your back or heart.
Together, declare:

“This pattern ends here. We reclaim our energy, identity, and sovereignty.”

Visualize the archetypal cord dissolving at its root—far deeper than the personal connection—and watch a wave of light restore your field.

Close by thanking your helper and inviting your Inner Child into your arms or onto your lap, reaffirming safety and agency.

Purpose:
To identify and release unwanted energetic imprints while cultivating emotional clarity, protection, and inner harmony.

1. Create a Safe Space

Choose a quiet place without interruptions. Invite your Inner Child into the space—visualize them beside you, speak inwardly to them, or hold an object that represents them.

2. Identify Energetic Residue

Close your eyes. Recall recent interactions or situations that feel draining, confusing, or heavy. Ask your Inner Child:
“Are there any energies or cords here that we need to release?”

3. Visualize Cord Clearing

See each cord connecting you to that person or situation. Using your hand or a symbolic tool, cut or gently release the cord. Allow your Inner Child to copy you with their own imaginative tool—this reinforces empowerment and partnership.

4. Fill the Space with Light

Where the cord was, visualize a warm, radiant light filling the space. Invite your Inner Child to help bring safety, warmth, and strength into the cleared field.

5. Close with Reflection

Take a few deep breaths together. Ask your Inner Child how they feel now. Journal any sensations, images, or messages. Repeat daily or whenever you sense lingering attachments.

Tip:
Your Inner Child may offer unexpected gestures, symbols, or creative tools—trust their wisdom. They understand the symbolic terrain far better than the adult mind.

Click here for more Inner Child Exercises.