Likewise, the inner critic is a program that can be extricated from the mind by recognizing it as such and then erasing it from the system's hard drive. When the inner critic is no longer part of the person's identity, he or she is liberated from the tyranny of self-criticism and self-hatred. Any self-critical thoughts that arise during the day are dismissed with a simple smile, in the same way a customer service representative deftly dismisses irate customers.
Mindfulness brings up not only cognitions but emotions and physical sensations as well. Those emotions and physical sensations can be used as biofeedback tools in the process of healing. If the client becomes aware of feeling tension in the neck when certain critical thoughts arise, he or she may be more likely to notice neck tension during the day and take note of the corresponding thought processes. By becoming aware of the neck tension, the client becomes aware of the inner critic rearing its head. Similarly, emotions of anger or anxiety are often products of the inner critic, ways the inner critic punishes the person. They need not be identified with the core character...
The therapist can coach the client by asking him or her to ponder the question "Who am I?" The answer to that question will most likely not be the inner critic.
References
Carey, B. (2008). Mindfulness meditation: lotus therapy. International Herald Tribune. May 27, 2008. Retrieved Aug 5, 2008 from http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/05/27/healthscience/27budd.php
Elliot, J.E. (1993). Using Releasing Statements to Challenge Shoulds. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, Volume 7, Number 4, 1993, pp. 291-295(5)
Elliot, K.J. (1999). The Inner Critic as a key element in working with adults who have experienced childhood sexual abuse. Bulletin of the Menninger Clinic. Retrieved Aug 5, 2008 from http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=1773747
Teasdale, J.D., Williams, J.M.G., Soulsby, J.M., Segal, Z.V., Ridgeway, V.A., & Lau, M.A. (2000). Prevention of relapse/recurrence of major depression by mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. 68(4): 615-623.
