• IFS INSIGHT: Exiles - the Parts We Push Down
    Jan 21 2026

    For 25 Free IFS Meditations and to join the free Facebook Community, visit exploreifs.com

    Summary

    In this episode of IFS Meditations and Insights, Tim Fortescue delves into the concept of 'exiles' within the Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework. Exiles are the parts of ourselves that carry deep emotional pain and vulnerability, often pushed away by our protective mechanisms to help us cope with overwhelming experiences. Tim emphasizes the importance of recognizing these exiled parts, which can manifest as feelings of shame, grief, or rejection, and how they influence our current behaviors and reactions. He shares personal anecdotes to illustrate how these exiles can be approached with compassion rather than criticism, allowing for healing and integration into our broader self-system.

    Tim also discusses the role of 'protectors,' the parts of us that work tirelessly to shield our exiles from pain. These protectors may manifest as perfectionism, over-functioning, or numbing behaviors. He highlights that while these protectors are often seen as problematic, they are actually devoted guardians trying to keep us safe. The episode encourages listeners to gently engage with their exiles, fostering a sense of safety and connection, which can lead to a more harmonious internal experience. Tim concludes with practical steps for listeners to begin this journey of self-discovery and healing.

    Keywords

    Internal Family Systems, exiles, protectors, emotional healing, self-compassion, mental health, Tim Fortescue, IFS Meditations, personal growth, inner child

    Takeaways

    Exiles carry our deepest pain and vulnerability.

    Protectors are devoted guardians, not just problematic parts.

    Approaching exiles gently is a radical act of compassion.

    Exiles need to be met on their own terms, not forced into the light.

    Building trust with protectors allows for healing of exiled parts.

    Sound bites

    "Exiles don't need to be dragged into the light."

    "Approaching exiles gently is itself, a radical act."

    "It makes sense that some parts had to go underground."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to IFS and Exiles

    00:46 Understanding Exiles and Their Impact

    05:01 The Role of Protectors in Our System

    07:53 Personal Story: Encountering My Exiles

    12:41 Gentle Approaches to Healing Exiles

    15:46 Practical Steps for Self-Discovery and Healing

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    19 min
  • IFS MEDITATION: Meeting the Thinking Part
    Jan 14 2026

    Join Tim Fortescue in this guided meditation as we explore the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach to understanding and embracing our thinking parts. Discover how your thinking style can be a protector, helping you navigate life's challenges with greater compassion and self-awareness.

    In this gentle meditation session, you'll:

    • Explore your relationship with your thinking part
    • Embrace self-energy through compassionate self-exploration
    • Learn to recognize how your thinking serves and protects you

    Whether you're new to IFS or deepening your practice, this meditation offers a warm invitation to meet yourself with curiosity and care.

    For more meditations and resources, visit exploreifs.com.

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    12 min
  • IFS INSIGHT- There is Room for Your Way Here: IFS for Different Ways of Thinking
    Jan 7 2026

    Join Tim Fortescue in this episode of "IFS Meditations and Insights" as he guides you through the transformative journey of Internal Family Systems. Discover how different thinking styles, whether divergent or convergent, can be embraced to foster healing and self-discovery. Explore the beauty of befriending your inner parts and learn how curiosity and compassion can lead you to a more authentic self. Tune in for insights that encourage you to meet yourself where you are, and remember, you're not alone on this path. For more resources, visit exploreifs.com.

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    10 min
  • SPECIAL EPISODE: Gratitude and Community: How You're Making Healing Possible
    Dec 31 2025

    Join Tim Fortescue in this heartfelt episode of "IFS Meditations and Insights" as he reflects on the power of community and gratitude. Discover how your support enables transformative healing journeys—from sliding-scale coaching to free meditations and teachings. Listen to inspiring stories of resilience and connection, and learn how you can be part of this ongoing journey of growth and healing.

    Support this work at exploreifs.com/give or join the Faithfully Growing Community at exploreifs.com.

    You're not alone. You're beloved. And you're enough.

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    7 min
  • IFS MEDITATION: A Year-End Parts Check-In
    Dec 31 2025

    In this episode of "IFS Meditations and Insights," Tim Fortescue guides you through a gentle meditation, inviting you to explore the parts of yourself that have carried you through the year. Embrace the power of presence and self-leadership as you reflect on your journey. For more insights and to join the Faithfully Growing Community, visit exploreifs.com.

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    14 min
  • IFS INSIGHT: Year End Reflections from Within
    Dec 24 2025

    Join Tim Fortescue in a reflective journey as he explores the quieter, unspectacular moments of healing and self-leadership. This episode invites you to slow down, listen, and notice the parts of yourself that have carried you through the year. With gentle insights and a focus on presence over performance, Tim encourages a deeper connection with your inner world. Perfect for those seeking a moment of calm and introspection. Tune in and discover the power of simply being.

    For more and to find out more about the Faithfully Growing Community, visit exploreifs.com.

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    14 min
  • IFS MEDITATION: Meeting the Quiet Center Within
    Dec 17 2025

    Summary

    In this episode of IFS Meditations and Insights, Tim Fortescue guides listeners through understanding and managing feelings of overwhelm and flooding. He shares personal experiences and practical steps to cultivate self-energy and emotional awareness, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and accepting all parts of oneself. The session concludes with a reminder of the listener's inherent worth and the value of self-compassion.

    Takeaways

    • Take a moment to settle in to whatever posture feels right for you.
    • This episode may be helpful for you.
    • Let that place be your anchor, a small doorway into your inner world.
    • Notice what it feels like to simply witness your inner world without trying to fix or change it.
    • You are held, you're beloved.
    • Just naming them even roughly starts to create a little bit more separation.
    • You can return here anytime in a moment of stillness and a single breath.
    • Self is that core of you, calm, curious, compassionate and connected.
    • Even a small percentage of Self-energy brings relief.
    • You're not alone. You're beloved.

    Sound bites

    "Let that place be your anchor."

    "You are held, you're beloved."

    "You're not alone. You're beloved."

    Chapters

    00:00 Finding Stillness and Presence

    08:36 Connecting with Inner Parts

    17:00 Embracing Compassion and Healing

    19:30 Returning to the Present Moment

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    22 min
  • IFS INSIGHT: IFS & Spirituality
    Dec 10 2025

    To find out more and join the Faithfully Growing Community, visit exploreifs.com

    Summary

    In this episode, Tim Fortescue explores the intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and spirituality, discussing how these concepts can coexist and support personal healing. He delves into the experience of overwhelm, the importance of self-energy, and the role of compassion in navigating inner chaos. Through practical steps and personal anecdotes, Tim guides listeners in recognizing their parts, practicing self-compassion, and accessing their inner wholeness.

    Takeaways

    • Many people feel a longing for connection to something larger than themselves.
    • Spirituality can bring warmth and meaning, but also pain and wounds.
    • The self is inherently compassionate and whole, regardless of external beliefs.
    • Healing involves turning toward our inner parts with curiosity and tenderness.
    • Flooding occurs when multiple parts overwhelm our system, leading to chaos.
    • Self-energy is a calm, compassionate presence that can guide us through overwhelm.
    • Practicing self-compassion can create space for healing and integration.
    • Naming our parts helps us understand and manage our inner experiences.
    • We can access self-energy without needing to adhere to a specific spiritual belief.
    • Our inner world is a sanctuary where every part has dignity.

    Sound Bites

    "Just naming them helps."

    "Just being together."

    "Step one, pause."

    Chapters

    00:00 Exploring the Intersection of IFS and Spirituality

    06:34 The Nature of the Self and Its Inherent Qualities

    11:12 Understanding Inner Parts and Their Roles

    16:28 Personal Journey: Embracing Authenticity and Connection

    22:15 Practicing Compassionate Presence Within

    24:31 Introduction to Internal Family Systems and Overwhelm

    24:36 Final Thoughts on Overwhelm and Self-Care

    Keywords

    Internal Family Systems, spirituality, self-energy, overwhelm, compassion, healing, mindfulness, mental health, emotional awareness, personal growth

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    25 min