Hey everyone,

I feel that I usually only post on forums like this when I'm in a bad place, but I thought I would share something positive!

I have a big presentation coming up which kicks up a ton of anxiety and insecurities. Even though the talk has nothing to do with my trauma, just being stressed out in a similar environment is a huge trigger for me and brings out many unhealthy coping mechanisms that I've normally stopped doing. I've been struggling to function for a bit lately and find my self esteem has been extremely low.

However, tonight, I decided to try something different.. I took a nice warm bath, put on some white noise in the background, and spent 15 minutes actively trying to practice self-love. I said affirmations out loud, hugged myself, focused on breathing and being grounded. It feels a bit weird at first, but after a couple of minutes, I really felt it. I have been through so much, survived so much, and I do deserve happiness and success! I'm not these terrible things my anxiety would have me believe. Working on my self-talk, even if just for a few minutes, really changed the outcome of my day.

I hope, if you are able, you practice some conscious self-care and self-love too in whatever way you can.