The Spa

Ya'll, I think one of the hardest things for me as a survivor is taking care of myself-my body. It's kind of like, well nobody else cares, why should I? I know in my head that it is very wrong to feel that way. I deserve to be respected, just like anyone else. I (we ALL do) deserve to feel pretty and feminine and anything else I (we) choose to feel! Most importantly is the little child within us. She is the one who was SO wounded, SO hurt, SO traumatized. She never deserved all that happened to her. We must nurture her, love her, respect her, and show her that WE will take care of her now. We have felt (and still feel) her pain. Let's show her a new way to live. A safe, happy, cared for life. Let's take care of ourselves!

I have made a list of ways that we can nurture ourselves. Take the ones you like, leave the ones you don't. If you have any creative ways that you nurture yourself, please share them with us. Let's help each other to heal.

Take a warm bubble bath. Don't rush. Let the warmth relax you. Light a few candles and turn on some soft music. Maybe some children's lullaby's (your inner child will love you!!)

Think of one good quality about yourself...YES YOU DO!! :) Maybe it's a talent, or a mannerism, or a physical feature: find something good and focus on it. Compliment yourself on it! Remember that you are a unique, likeable person. Remind yourself daily, eventually you'll believe it!! :)

Get a cuddly teddy bear or doll. When your inner child is sad, frightened, or feeling old feelings, give it a hug. Let your inner child feel safe and loved. I have 2 bears and a huge Minnie Mouse!!

Send Susan Smiles e-mail!!

See a doctor if you are sick, and for regular check-ups.

Call a friend...no more isolation!

Give yourself a manicure.

Express yourself in writing.

Empower yourself, take a self-defense class.

Forgive yourself!!!!!!!