I always underestimated the power of the mind. My motto in life used to be, out of sight, out of mind. I went along with my life, somewhat merrily, in absolute denial of the importance of my mental health. “Well, if it’s not happening to me right now at this moment, I don’t have to think about it, or process it.” And all was well. Until it wasn’t.
I remember the day vividly. It was a Thursday evening when every single thought, emotion, and memory that was trying to shape me into the person I was denying myself to grow into, exploded in a moment. I lost feeling in my hands, my vision went blurry, and my heart was beating so strongly out of my chest, I truly thought it was about to leave my body. At the age of 22, I had my first severe panic attack.
That was my big wake-up call that to feel good, to really feel good inside, I have to put in the work. And yes, I make mistakes along the way. But mistakes eventually lead to fewer bad days.
Here are my tried and true methods to ground myself, and to remind myself that tomorrow needs me.
Shower meditation
Every time you shower, visualize washing away your stress and anxiety. Concentrate on the feel of the water upon your skin. Envision the power of the water washing away your negative thoughts. Feel sadness, regret, anger, and depression washing right off of you. Let it all go down the drain, you’ll start to feel lighter and much more clear.
Mantras to stop negative self-talk
There is absolutely nothing “wrong” with me.
I treat myself with the same gentleness I show to my loved ones.
I am human. I am allowed to fail.
I am trying my best, and that is enough.
Today may be bad, but tomorrow will be better.
I am loved.
Romanticizing your life for you
You have to start believing that your morning commute is cute and fun, that every cup of coffee is the best you’ve ever had, and that even the smallest and most mundane things are exciting and new.
You have to because that is when you truly start living. That’s when you look forward to every day.
Recognizing that it’s a feeling - and our moods go up and down
Put on your headphones, force yourself to get out of bed, stand in the sun and blast some Taylor Swift. You are so strong for choosing to make it through the day. Nothing’s really wrong - and nothing’s wrong with you. It’s just the way you’re feeling, which is completely valid - and our feelings usually change.
And remember, that these hard times, the pain, these lessons - one day will be your strength, your awareness, and your blessings. Hang in there, I’m rooting for you.
About the Author
@claudiamaree.png
Claudia Marée is a British born, New Zealand raised Wolven Wolf currently residing in New York. Outside of Wolven, Claudia holds degrees and passions in Film & Television Performance, culinary arts, social media marketing and social psychology. Claudia is a big advocate for normalizing mental health. Having been diagnosed with high functioning anxiety, depression, and PTSD, Claudia’s goal is to break the stigma associated with mental health. Peace, love, & Wolven, members of my fellow Wolfpack.
