7PartSelf & Transgender

Understanding and navigating your identity and relationships can be a complex journey, especially in a world that might not always be accepting. The 7PartSelf model can provide a comprehensive framework to help you better understand yourself and improve your relationships with others. Here's how transgender individuals can use each part of the model:

1. Somnium Nexu (Dream Connection)

• Function: Provides access to collective signs and symbols of humanity, connecting personal and collective dreams.

• Application: Reflect on your dreams and aspirations, both personal and collective. Engage in creative activities that connect you with a broader community and shared human experiences. This can help you find a sense of belonging and purpose.

2. Fulcrum of Identity

• Function: Balances and integrates all parts of the Self around consciousness and identity.

• Application: Focus on your core identity and how all aspects of your life and self interact. Seek balance and integration in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Embrace your identity fully and find ways to express it authentically.

3. Hic Sum (Here I Am)

• Function: Purely neurological realm, inner workings.

• Application: Understand the neurological and historical aspects of your identity. Acknowledge your past experiences and how they have shaped you. This can include recognizing the impact of gender dysphoria and finding ways to address it through self-care and medical support if needed.

4. Fit Mihi (It Happens to Me)

• Function: Sensory realm, outer world stimulus.

• Application: Be mindful of how external stimuli affect you. Pay attention to your sensory experiences and how they influence your feelings and interactions. Create environments that affirm and support your gender identity, enhancing your well-being.

5. Internal Stimulus

• Function: Inner realm, discriminatory boundary inside the skin.

• Application: Triage internal stimuli to maintain stability. Practice self-reflection and mindfulness to understand your internal experiences. Develop strategies to manage internal conflicts and emotions, promoting inner peace and self-acceptance.

6. External Stimulus

• Function: Outer realm, discriminatory boundary outside the skin.

• Application: Manage external stimuli to ensure safety and comfort. Set boundaries with people who may not respect your identity. Surround yourself with supportive and understanding individuals who affirm your gender and contribute positively to your life.

7. Ecce Me (Behold Me)

• Function: Observable behavior generated by the Self.

• Application: Express your identity through your actions and behaviors. Advocate for yourself and others in the transgender community. Engage in activities that reinforce your sense of self and allow you to be seen and recognized as you truly are.

Integration and Practical Steps:

1. Self-Acceptance: Use the Fulcrum of Identity to embrace all parts of yourself. This central locus of identity helps integrate your experiences, dreams, and sensory inputs into a coherent sense of self.

2. Community Connection: Engage with communities and groups that share your experiences and values (Somnium Nexu). This provides a support network and helps you feel connected to something larger than yourself.

3. Boundaries and Safety: Set clear boundaries to protect your mental and physical well-being (External Stimulus). Ensure that your environment is safe and affirming.

4. Mindfulness and Reflection: Regularly practice mindfulness to understand your internal experiences (Internal Stimulus). Reflect on your journey and celebrate your progress.

5. Advocacy and Expression: Advocate for your rights and the rights of others. Use your observable behavior (Ecce Me) to be a role model and foster understanding and acceptance.

6. Balancing Internal and External Worlds: Recognize how your internal feelings (Hic Sum) and external experiences (Fit Mihi) interact. Seek balance by addressing both your inner needs and the demands of your environment.

By understanding and utilizing the 7PartSelf model, you can create a more harmonious relationship with yourself and others. This holistic approach will support you in navigating your identity with confidence and resilience. Remember, your journey is unique, and each step you take towards self-understanding and acceptance is valuable.