Life is so difficult at times. Daily stressors add up, expectations are given, and the unpredictable hits like a truck. It's so hard at times to give ourselves a break and realize we are only human. People all around the world, look for ways to numb their pain. Some of these ways are damaging to a person and can lead to worse mechanisms for relief. However, there are other ways to deal with pain when the urges come over you...
Exercise. In most cases, when one is feeling an urge, the want to create a sense of pain to help them focus on something else. Exercise does exactly that. It makes you work your body until you feel that pain that comes with it. However, in this case, it's strengthening your mind, body, and heart instead of damaging it.
Draw. You can even draw on yourself. Look at the space where you would do the self-harm, take a pen, and draw. Lines, words, pictures, whatever it is that brings you joy. So when you look down, all you see is your beautiful imagination coming to life on your body. That applies to anything you draw, paint, create. Use that brilliant mind and let your thoughts be replaced with images of joy.
Call your best friend. Sometimes, we just need a reminder of how much we mean to people. When that urges comes, dial the people close to you. Be reminded of all the laughs and joy you have brought into people's lives. The last thing they want is for you to be hurting. Think of them, and how they look at you. Because they think you are the world.
Yoga. Maybe you feel disconnected with yourself and need a reminder of the miracle that is your body. Yoga is a great way to reconnect with your soul and body. It shows you what your body is capable of doing while including deep breathing and quiet music. They're different types of yoga that include relaxing, working out, and soul searching.
Netflix or movies. Watch your favorite show or movie. Focusing on someone else for a while helps calm the mind. Throw on that classic comedy that makes you laugh so hard you cry. Allow yourself to emerge into your favorite storyline and it may help calm the urge within.
Find your passion. You are a talent unlike any other. Your hopes, dreams, motivation, is totally unique. When you want to hurt yourself, think of all the things you want to do with your life. Maybe your passion is writing. Maybe it's music. Think of your passion, and use that stress to work towards it. Play the guitar, write down your feelings, volunteer. Do anything to remind yourself of all you have to offer.
It's so difficult when you are trying to deal with your emotions. Everyone's experience in life is challenging at times, and I know it's tempting to give into the negative thoughts of hurting yourself. But in those moments, give yourself some grace and realize that you are human. Realize that you are so special and your body is a holy temple that deserves the best. Reach out when you are in need, and know that you are never alone. You are a treasure, and you deserve to treat yourself as one.
