In the Western world we usually identify ourselves as singular entities. Yet, we find ourselves in conflict with ourselves and with other people. We often get triggered, without even knowing why. How can we navigate the complex human interiority as well as our interactions with others? How can we reduce suffering and make our choices form a place of wholeness?

In this illuminating conversation, Aviv Shahar and Portals friend Alexander Love explore the transformative practice of "parts work" as a pathway to inner healing and greater personal and communal harmony. Guided by Alexander, an insightful healer, acupuncturist and life coach, we navigate the intricate landscape of the inner self, learning to recognize and integrate the diverse parts that comprise our being. Alexander articulates a holistic approach inspired by Eastern wisdom, particularly Chinese medicine, viewing each individual as an inner ecology, where every "part" holds unique perspectives, intentions, and functions.

Parts work invites us to move beyond seeing ourselves as singular beings and acknowledge the rich inner multiplicity. By gently engaging these diverse inner voices, we begin a profound healing and developmental journey toward inner harmony, emotional resilience, and deeper connection.

Ultimately, this practice not only helps resolve internal conflicts but cultivates an embodied wholeness that transforms our interactions and relationships with the external world, fostering enlightened intention and compassionate living.

Other insights and ponders:

• The inner ecology perspective: recognizing the self as composed of interdependent, dynamic parts rather than isolated components.
• We are always becoming with our world. Modernity has created a sense of separation to observe the world objectively. In fact, I am part of the world and what’s going on outside is also going on inside.
• No matter how much a part of the self feels separated and disconnected, it’s still a part of the whole.
• The first million-dollar question is: How do I feel towards this part? If it is wholeness, the answer will be automatically, I’m curious, I’m loving, I’m interested, I’m compassionate.
• We don’t start with fragmentation and then by the end of the session we are hoping for wholeness. We flip that around, when possible, we are starting with wholeness. Wholeness begets wholeness.
• Transforming protective parts by uncovering their deeper, authentic qualities, shifting from harmful behaviors to supportive functions.
• In the Portals Into the Soul writing, we develop the Inner Conclave work, visualizing an inner ecology where parts or different voices come into conversation with each other. We can apply this practice to do therapy work, developmental work, and connective communion, where the parts of the self-surrender to become the conduit for the creative act of the universe.

This conversation is part of the continuing Portals discovery into what is emerging on the frontiers of human experience in this time of profound change. Information about upcoming special events can be found on the Events page. Also visit and subscribe to our YouTube channel.