Our relationship to ourselves shapes the world we experience.

Anxiety may feel like a knot in your stomach or a racing heart. It might make you worry a lot, feel scared, or find it hard to relax. Sometimes, it's like your mind is stuck on a problem and won't stop thinking about it, even if you want it to. You might feel restless or on edge, and it can make it tough to concentrate or sleep. It's different for everyone, but it's like having a storm of worried feelings inside you.

Depression can feel like a heavy weight on your shoulders that won't go away. It might make you feel really sad, tired, or empty inside. Sometimes, it's like a fog that clouds your thoughts and makes everything seem hard to do. You might lose interest in things you used to enjoy and find it tough to concentrate or make decisions. It can make you feel alone, even when you're around others, and sometimes, you might think things won't get better. Depression looks different for everyone, but it's like a dark cloud that hangs over your days.

Grief feels like a heavy ache in your heart, like something important is missing. It can make you feel really sad, and sometimes it's hard to believe that what you're feeling is real. You might cry a lot or feel numb, like you're in a daze. Grief can make it tough to focus or do everyday things because your mind might keep going back to the thing or person you've lost. It can feel like waves of emotions - sometimes overwhelming and other times more manageable. Grief looks different for everyone, but it's like carrying a big hole in your heart.

It can feel like being caught in a recurring storm of emotions and thoughts. It brings persistent feelings of fear, shame, and worthlessness. You might experience a sense of emptiness or loss of identity, finding it hard to trust yourself or others. Flashbacks, nightmares, or intense emotional reactions can reoccur, making it challenging to feel safe or calm. The impact might also affect your relationships, causing difficulties in forming connections or setting boundaries. It can feel like a constant struggle to find stability and a sense of control amidst the chaos of past traumatic experiences, influencing your daily life in profound ways.

Relationship challenges can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, with moments of joy and love alongside confusion, disagreements, or distance. It might bring feelings of frustration, sadness, or insecurity. Communication may become difficult, leading to misunderstandings or unresolved issues. There might be a sense of disconnect or a struggle to find common ground. These challenges can manifest as arguments, feelings of loneliness, or a lack of intimacy. Overall, it's a mix of emotions and situations that can make relationships feel tough and uncertain at times.

Being a better parent starts with understanding ourselves. When we know our own needs and feelings, we can connect with our child on a deeper level. Avoiding the trap of projecting our unmet needs onto them, we give space for our kids to find their own path to happiness. This self-awareness guides us in supporting our child without imposing our own goals. It's about creating an environment where they feel valued, letting them be themselves. By staying connected to ourselves, we help our children navigate their journey while offering the guidance they need. Parenting becomes more than just a role; it's a shared journey of growth and understanding.