#.and instead just learn how to navigate the world with more difficulties
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"God doesn't make mistakes." I hear this said by gender purists all the time, as if it somehow settles the argument.
I'm back and forth on whether I believe in any kind of God myself, but for the sake of discussion, I'll accept the premise that God exists.
And if He does exist, then this is the same God who creates bodies that are born without the ability to walk. And when parents have a child like that, they don't say: "God doesn't make mistakes. Get up and walk, you little brat." They accept that their child needs different things than typical children need to get by in this life. They help their child. Sometimes they surgically intervene with the body that God created in order to give that child a more fulfilling life. And what they usually say is: "Everything happens for a reason."
And maybe they're just rationalizing a world with unexplained difficulties to themselves, but they try to find meaning in the struggle and compassion for the less fortunate. They fold it into their beliefs as God putting a spirit into a less capable body because He wanted that spirit to learn something of value that it wouldn't have been able to learn living any other life and because He wanted to teach the other people in that person's life some valuable lessons too.
I had several teeth pulled last year and had my appendix out a few months ago. Did God intend for me to die of an infection, an abscess tooth, or appendicitis? Or did God send my spirit to Earth at a time when human knowledge, and the mercy of Medicaid, had advanced far enough that it would be possible to catch those things and take action before they became deadly, so I could live on to do more with my life? Is it possible that He wanted me to learn from those experiences so I could go on to write this post, and hopefully many more long-winded ponderings about social issues?
People alter what God creates all the time. Failing organs are removed. Organ transplants occur. Conjoined twins are separated. Cleft palates are repaired. Deviated septums are corrected. Do we think of those things as human arrogance trying to correct what God created, or do we think that God in His wisdom put resources on this planet that would make it possible for humans to be able to help each other in those ways because He wanted to teach them something? It would seem to me that He gave us the resources to harm each other or to help each other, and the free will to choose which.
Are you seeing yet how this relates to the gender purists I mentioned at the top of this post?
When people seem to take the stance of "God doesn't make mistakes, so obviously He wouldn't put a male spirit in a female body" I instead think of it from the angle of "if God doesn't make mistakes, then WHY would He put a male spirit in a female body? Or the inverse? Or create spirits that defy binary gender categorization? Or create bodies that are intersex?"
Interestingly, when a person is born intersex, the gender purists are often eager to surgically intervene with what God created, before that person can even express an opinion on the matter, but when a trans person expresses a wish for agency to alter their own body, the gender purists say "God doesn't make mistakes." It's almost like they're more interested in rigidly enforcing their own concepts of a gender binary than in actually trying to understand and respect why God does what He does.
Maybe God created masculine spirits in feminine bodies, spirits that defy binary categorization, intersex bodies, and other such people because He wanted to teach those spirits something about that unique type of life that they couldn't learn any other way. Maybe He wanted those spirits to understand the value of discovering gender, defining it, navigating the socio-cultural significance of it, learning the flexibility of the human body, and being entrusted with responsibility as the steward of their own self.
I think trans people are beautiful, magical, and brave, so I like the idea of a God who is well pleased with His transgender children learning to love themselves. Maybe He wanted them to learn that kind of love. And maybe He wanted the other people in a trans or intersex person's life to learn to be more compassionate and accepting of differences. Maybe He made human bodies malleable and put resources on this planet that would make it possible to give new instructions to the human body on a cellular level because He wanted humans to be able to help each other in that way. Maybe everything happens for a reason.
I'm only theorizing, of course. I don't presume to know the will of God. I'm suspicious of anyone who claims they do know His will. I just try to look around at the world, listen to what people are saying about their lived experiences, and ponder the possibilities.
And again, this is accepting the premise that God even exists, because if this life is all there is then really none of this matters and there's no point at all in getting bent out of shape about what other people choose to do with their bodies. Assuming He does exist though, is it so impossible to imagine that gender flexibility could be part of His plan?
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January 24, 2023
Ok, last day of classes for the week! I have a lot to do today, my life is a little hectic at the moment. I have one of my best friends coming to watch the puppy today which is great.
I've been doing a lot of thinking about friends and about myself lately, brought on by my birthday party laments most likely. Anyway, I've been thinking about how like, I've never actually had long-term, healthy relationships modeled to me. My parents got divorced when I was very little, and then my dad had a live in girlfriend for 6 years before she and her daughter moved out. My mom got married to another guy for 5 years until they divorced, and then she had a baby and moved in with a man for about 3 years before they split up. And I was living like, around these different families for different periods of time at different rates. So a stable family was never like, modeled to me and the closes I came to one was gone after 6 years. I don't know how to make and maintain long-term relationships. And certainly I've had difficulty engaging in healthy relationships and I say that taking on the full understanding that I had engaged in toxic behavior in relationships, romantic and platonic. So on one hand, I think I should cut myself some slack, like obviously this is hard to learn and obviously I'm going to fuck it up on accident and I just need to keep working at it. But on the other hand I am like, so mad and sad and upset and I just feel defeated. Like it is so embarrassing to be a 23 year old adult woman going to grad school and being like, "yeah I really struggle making and keeping friends and I am still learning to navigate a lot of social systems and social queues." like ugh girl really. It's just not the vibe and that's so disappointing.
Another thing I have been thinking about is how hyper-vigilant my mother made me. I saw a tiktok this morning that really resonated with me. This lady was talking about how a parentified child can learn hyper-vigilance as a way to try to keep their parents/siblings happy by trying to read facial expressions and tone and try to manage how everyone in the household feels. She said it's a form of control and like, feeling like you have control of a situation. And then had the thought that maybe my childhood was my mom begging me to get control of her, and I never could. Because that's a ridiculous thing to ask a child I mean imagine me asking a one year old to help me get control of myself like, it's not gonna happen that one year old has never seen like a tiger yet its not even been bowling.
I just feel like I am getting better at identifying how I feel and trying to reach the root cause of it. I am beginning to think maybe the way to feel better about myself and make more friends is instead of examining every flaw I think I might have with a magnifying glass, pushing myself as hard as possible to fix it, maybe I just start accepting that the world is how it is, people are how they are, and maybe I am worth the time and effort it takes to be myself.
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꧁ The Flowers of Mordor ꧂
Chapter 6 - All That Is Gold
READ ALL ON AO3
SUMMARY : Sam knows he cannot tear himself in two, but Frodo's struggles after the quest are worsening. Marigold Gamgee gets a job at Bag End, and grows close to its enigmatic master. J. R. R. Tolkien meets Jane Austen meets Tess of the D'Urbervilles.
CHAPTER SUMMARY : Frodo tutors Marigold, and they discover that her difficulties run deeper than they thought. Frodo searches for new ways to help her learn.
PAIRING : Frodo/Marigold Gamgee, Frodo/Sam secondary
GENRES : hurt/comfort, angst, slow burn romance, slice of life, girl next door
WARNINGS : PTSD, depression, panic attacks, eating disorder, eventual spicy scenes
RATING : M
When she was with him, he felt bits and pieces of a familiar warmth, for her resemblance to Sam was uncanny. She had the same easy, plainspoken manner, the same roundness of features, the same sun-colored hair and gold toned skin – though Marigold’s was rather prettier, and could have been compared to a just-ripe peach.
They also had the same presence of mind and attention to detail that belied a deep-feeling and deep-thinking nature. With Sam, it had been food, rope and distances. With Marigold, it was again food, but also cleanliness and health, along with the organization needed to navigate a smial where she was quickly coming into her own.
He had come to think of her as an unexpected, splendid gift, that came and went every day, and would one day be gone for good, off to marry some respectable farmer’s son. So he had decided to appreciate her company while it lasted, even if it was only lent to him by the world.
He certainly could not think of her as anything more, because… well, for the likes of him there could be no more. Any thoughts he had beyond the next few days ran together into a mist, and made him feel like he stood at the edge of a precipice.
But when she was with him, he felt bits and pieces of a familiar warmth, for her resemblance to Sam was uncanny. She had the same easy, plainspoken manner, the same roundness of features (which she had regained after the Lockholes), and similar sun-colored hair and gold toned skin – though Marigold’s was rather prettier, and could have been compared to a just-ripe peach. They also had the same presence of mind and attention to detail that belied a deep-feeling and deep-thinking nature. With Sam, it had been food, rope and distances. With Marigold, it was again food, but also cleanliness and health, along with the organization needed to navigate a smial where she was quickly making herself at home.
He was overcome with a desire to do something for her – beyond just paying her wages – for he had not lied when he said that he felt useless, never mind that he had ruinously poor sleep that left him barely able to lift his arms.
The reading and writing felt like an opportunity. When he first learned of her difficulty, his heart had squeezed with pity. Having read everything he could get his hands on from the moment he learned his letters, he had always found it easy and natural as breathing. At Brandy Hall, after he had inhaled all the books, he even read the dictionary and took note of the particularly unique words, writing them down in a notebook that he would add to for many years after. So to hear that someone found reading hard as chewing rocks was difficult to comprehend – but what a metaphor, in fact! – she was certainly not daft. More than that, he found it incredibly saddening. It brought to mind a person who was standing outside in the cold, locked out of a merry gathering and with no key to get in.
He had worried at first that he would not know how to teach her, or where to begin – but Marigold proved a willing student, and at times she all but taught herself. All he had to do was suggest something, and she took to it and ran.
On the first day, they did not even get to the reading. Marigold had instead asked what words she had gotten wrong, so they took to the wastepaper basket, and placed the labels side by side, old and new, and she dutifully copied down the proper spellings into her notebook in her wobbly, awkward handwriting.
When they got to the word “overalls,” which Marigold had spelled with one L, Frodo pointed out that since it had the word “all” in it, it would be helpful to think of other words that ended the same way.
And Marigold summarily came up with “tall, ball, call, shawl, crawl,” which she had started to write down, when –
“Those last two are spelled with a W,” Frodo pointed out.
Marigold raised her eyebrows.
But she did not seem frustrated by this, just genuinely surprised.
Frodo nodded.
“It’s alright. Just start a new column for them. And then let me show you something.”
He pulled a piece of paper toward him, and wrote a sentence.
I shall wear a shawl.
He turned the paper towards her.
She moved her lips, silently, as her eyes moved over the letters.
“This one is ‘shall’,” He pointed to the second word. “As in ‘will.’ And this one is ‘shawl,’ the thing you wear.”
“Shall… shawl…” Marigold nodded as she repeated the words, her eyes fixed upon the paper. “I shall wear a shawl…”
The realization hung palpable in the air. If she had not known, she might not have gotten the point across. But sitting here with Frodo, her anger toward Sam felt spent.
Frodo nodded again. And of course, there was also “shoal,” a large group of fish, or indeed people, who moved as if they were one, but it would not do to confuse her with further elaboration just then.
Simple, Frodo, simple – he reminded himself.
It was an oddly comforting thought.
“Shawl – shall… Shall – shawl,” Marigold repeated as she traced the words, each into their own respective column.
“Very good,” Frodo affirmed. “Just keep saying it out loud as you write. It should help, so it’s both your hand and your ears that remember. Try to emphasize that one sounds like an ‘o’ and the other like an ‘a’ when you say it.”
Marigold did, and as wrote the two words again, this time on a spare piece of paper, Frodo also wrote the word “shawl” and drew a scarf beside it, pulled over a set of small, invisible shoulders.
And that started the drawings. She drew honeycombs next to “wax” when they came up with words that sounded like “flax,” the word that had started it all, and paw prints next to “tracks” – and repeated the words emphatically and dutifully as she wrote and rewrote them again. And she did not seem distressed by it all, just paused and gave a chuckle as Frodo said there were two ways of spelling the word “ax” – one with an “e” and one without. She then drew an ax by the word and said, “you know, Mr. Frodo, I always thought the letter K looked rather like an ax, myself…”
And looking at it, he did in fact see it – though for his part he had always thought it looked like a dwarvish rune – a fact, he supposed, not incompatible with axes. But since the association was not a proper one for the spelling of the word, he put forth that a better way to remember it might be that if you took an ax to something, you destroyed the thing and put an “x” over it – or, if unsuccessful, left the indentation of two blade cuts.
Marigold laughed at this, and accidentally put her hand where the ink had not dried, leaving an impression of “ax” on her hand. Frodo passed her the blotting-paper.
In the end, they had come up with far more words than was reasonable to learn in a night, so agreed that she would only learn the first ten, and the next day Frodo would quiz her on them.
Marigold left Bag End that day feeling like she was walking on air.
She liked learning, of course, but not for lack of feeling daft – indeed, she felt daft more often than not, except for when Sam taught her – but that, as had already been established, was a lie. Indeed, the feeling never truly went away; she only got used to it. Her sisters often got annoyed when they had to show her how to do something multiple times, and Mrs. Bracegirdle was thin on praise and her criticisms were famous. But Mr. Frodo?
His corrections were, like everything he said, a simple invocation of fact, easy and obvious like “two plus two equals four,” and as casual as observations on the weather. There was nothing personal to them, no judgment – just the offering of pieces of knowledge as gifts, for her to take and do with as she pleased.
And Frodo, for his part, had gone to bed that night having missed his evening glass of wine or three, and having drunk instead the milk infused with lavender that she had warmed for him. And it might have been his imagination, but that night he had a harder time falling asleep, but once he did his awakenings were fewer and farther between: the dawn came more quickly, and the cries of the wraiths in his dreams were not as loud.
The next day, they did get to the reading.
It was, again, after dinner, the candles lit in anticipation of sundown. Marigold had settled in at her spot at the dinner table – which they devoted to their task upon realizing that none of the desks – nor, indeed, the escritoire – were big enough to fit two hobbits and the tools of the tutoring trade. She opened The History and Customs of Hobbits and began to read, and Frodo, for all his breeding and broad-minded nature, had to forcibly clamp his mouth shut to prevent it from hanging open.
“Hobbits. Are. An. Un–ob–tru… un-ob-tru…sive?… Unobtrusive. Right. Unobtrusive. Better write that one down. But very. Ank – ancient. People. More than. Wait, no. Hobbits. Are…” (1)
She plodded along, while Frodo cast about for something – anything – to say.
The only thing that came to mind was “Holy Petunias, she reads like a young child.” But even thinking that felt shameful.
And more than that, what was he, or anyone, to do about it? He was more than ever at a loss – for back when he was a child, the words had almost instantly begun leaping off the page, assuming color, size and shape like so many living things. But Marigold was fumbling for those same words as they ran away from her in the dark. What hope was there of ever bridging such a gap? And what tenacity she must have had to get this far in life regardless...
“Even in. An-cient days. They were. As a Rule. Were not. Often. Wait…”
“Wait, Marigold.” Frodo put his hand on the book.
She looked up, her expression that of someone caught breaking the rules.
He let his hand linger on the book, making his eyes as kind as possible.
“Marigold – may I ask, how did you read when you trained with Mrs. Bracegirdle?”
Marigold noticed his hand by hers, but her shoulders drooped all the same. She looked at the book, chastened, but she kept her voice steady.
“Why, just like this, Mr. Frodo. I told you it was like chewing rocks. The words never came together as they should.”
“But it must have taken ages!”
“It did. Sam helped a little, now and then. He read to me when I got tired.”
“But did he know – how hard it was?”
She shook her head.
“At first, I was too ashamed to tell him, and then I was too ashamed that I hadn’t told him. So I said I had headaches, or that I was tired. And I do sometimes get headaches when I read too long. The letters start to wobble.”
Frodo winced. The image of them standing at an impassable door came to mind, much like the Mines of Moria.
Marigold looked forlorn, like she had been expecting it. She fiddled with the corner of the page as if to say, it’s alright, Mr. Frodo, it was a valiant effort but there is no shame turning back now.
Except there was.
Maybe not shame exactly, but something made him determined to see that despondency erased. In another life, he might have taken up Sting to get rid of it.
But instead, he reached for one of the other books, and thumbed through the pages.
“Here, let’s try something different.”
He shifted closer to her, and lay the book between them, open to a short page of verses. Before she could try to read it, he covered all but the first line with a spare sheet of paper.
“Here, this ought to help. I’ll try first, then you.”
He took a breath and began to sing. He had not previously put Bilbo’s poetry to music – nor had anyone else that he knew, but it was not difficult to do: he carried the first words of each line higher, dropped lower in the middle, and finished each verse on the note where it started.
All that is gold does not glitter
Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost. (2)
He stopped, and looked at Marigold. It was not much, but perhaps? If words on a page did not coalesce on their own, then perhaps it was easier to work with words that were meant to?
“Try doing what I did. This is one of Bilbo’s compositions.”
Marigold shook herself out of a daze. She could not recall ever hearing Frodo sing, most certainly not to her – or rather, for her. He had a fairly good voice…
Tentatively, she took up the paper marker, and placed it under the first line. The letters sat calmly above it, like birds on a fence. She took a breath.
All that is gold… does not gli-i-itter…
Not all those … who wander… are – lo-o-ost;
The old that is strong … does not wi-i-ther,
Deep roots are not reached … by the fro-ost.
The paper was under the last line. She looked up, a mild astonishment on her face.
In truth, she had not actually read, but rather imitated Frodo’s words and music for half the passage. But knowing what words lay ahead made it easier to recognize them, and the predictability of the rhyme and rhythm was soothing.
“That’s very good.” Frodo nodded emphatically. “Maybe we ought to focus on poetry to start. You’ve made a lot fewer pauses with this one.”
She felt herself prickle from her head to her elbows – a bright and excited sort of feeling that buoyed her up.
She nodded. Poetry was certainly fine by her.
“May I – copy this one over? It’s lovely. It’s really Mr. Bilbo’s own?”
“It is. And yes. Copying things over is always good practice.”
She dipped her pen in ink.
“And the word ‘reach’ may be a good one for our sound-alike exercise,” he added. “Words with ‘ea’ and ‘ee’ can be difficult to parse out.”
Her pen hovered over the word “all,” now firmly entrenched in her mind as having two L’s instead of one.
“What does it mean, though, Mr. Frodo?”
“The poem? Oh. Well, what do you think it means?”
Marigold pondered for a moment.
“I think…”
What did it mean? Deep roots? Wandering people? Gold that did not seem like gold? They were all beautiful, sad images, but this, too, was a first. No one had ever asked her what she thought a piece of writing meant.
Frodo turned to her, elbow on the table, and waited for her response with curious eyes. The sun was setting, but not so low that the candles were the only light. Even so, the things around him grew dim by comparison. She blinked; it was almost as if he was lit from within.
“I think…” She regrouped her thoughts, “I think it means that things are not as hopeless as they seem. You’d think that something’s worthless, lost, dead, but it always comes back. It always reveals its true nature.”
“It’s curious that you use the word hopeless.”
She turned back to the page.
“It’s what came to mind, Mr. Frodo.” She set to tracing the word “that.” “‘Cause losing things, and losing people, can feel a might hopeless... But did I get it right? Is that what it really means?”
Frodo pushed his seat away slightly.
“Poetry means different things to different people, I think,” he replied. “That’s why I’ve always liked it. But in truth, this one originally was a riddle. It’s about one of the companions Sam and I had on our quest, Aragorn. He is now the king of Gondor, but for many years they thought his line was broken and lost, and he was just an unassuming Ranger of the North.”
Marigold ceased writing and put down her pen.
The name Aragorn was familiar from the four Adventurers’ stories, though just like words in general, unusual names were never her strong suit.
“How did he find out he was king, then? And how did his line get lost?”
She wanted to know more about this mysterious man, about whom such a beautiful poem was written. She would likely never meet him, but he was special enough to Bilbo and Frodo that the first had written a riddle about him, and the second had kept it and showed it, now, to her.
“Ah, well that is an interesting story,” Frodo replied. “But perhaps best left for another day.” He looked outside. The trees were no more than outlines against a pearlescent sky. “I think we had better end for the day, once you finish copying down the poem. The Gaffer will be wondering where you’ve got to.”
They are, essentially, reading the prologue to Lord of the Rings, the section entitled “Concerning Hobbits.”
“The Riddle of Strider” from J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.
#lotr#lord of the rings#lotr fanfiction#frodo baggins#lord of the rings fanfiction#lotr fanfic#samwise gamgee#sam gamgee#lord of the rings fanfic#frodo fanfiction#frodo baggins lotr#frodo baggins fanfiction#frodo baggins fanfic#frodo fanfic#fanfiction#fanfic#lotr fic#lord of the rings fic#frodo fic#frodo baggins fic#fiction#writing#slow burn romance#slow burn#hurt/comfort#romance#slow burn fiction#slow burn fanfiction
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Navigating Challenges and Embracing the Journey of Positive Change
Life is a tapestry woven with threads of both joy and adversity. While challenges may cast shadows at times, it's important to remember that the sun always rises again. In this blog, we'll explore the profound truth that life gets better, delving into stories of resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of a positive outlook. Let's embark on a journey to discover how each trial is an opportunity for growth, and how the promise of a brighter future is always within reach.
The Seasons of Life:
Just as the seasons change, so do the circumstances of our lives. Adversity may arrive unexpectedly, but it's crucial to recognize that challenges are temporary and often serve as catalysts for personal development. Just as spring follows winter, better times often emerge from the darkest moments.
Embracing Change and Growth:
Life's challenges are like stepping stones on a path toward self-discovery and growth. They push us out of our comfort zones, compelling us to evolve and become stronger versions of ourselves. Every setback can be reframed as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and ultimately thrive.
The Power of Perspective:
The lens through which we view the world shapes our reality. Shifting your perspective to focus on the silver linings amidst difficulties can be transformative. Instead of dwelling on what's wrong, try focusing on what's right – the small victories, the lessons learned, and the opportunities for improvement.
Resilience: Bouncing Back Stronger:
Resilience is the art of bouncing back from setbacks with newfound strength and determination. The challenges you face today are molding you into a more resilient individual, better equipped to handle whatever the future holds. Embrace the process, and you'll find that adversity is the forge in which your character is refined.
Small Steps, Big Changes:
Life improvement doesn't always require monumental leaps; often, it's the small, consistent steps that lead to lasting change. Each positive decision, no matter how small, contributes to a brighter future. Embrace healthy habits, pursue your passions, and cultivate positive relationships – these incremental changes add up over time.
Building a Support Network:
No journey is meant to be walked alone. Surrounding yourself with a supportive community of friends, family, mentors, and like-minded individuals can be a source of comfort and encouragement. Sharing your challenges and triumphs with others can help lighten the load and remind you that you're not alone on this path.
The Transformative Power of Time:
Time has an incredible way of healing wounds and revealing the true depth of our strength. The difficulties you face today may become distant memories, overshadowed by the growth and positive experiences that await you in the future.
Celebrating Progress:
As you navigate life's challenges and setbacks, remember to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a victory, and recognizing your accomplishments fuels the motivation to keep moving forward.
A Future Bright with Possibilities:
The journey of life is a testament to the fact that better days lie ahead. Embrace the uncertainty with hope and optimism, knowing that every trial you overcome brings you closer to a future filled with new opportunities, joy, and personal fulfillment.
Conclusion:
Life's challenges may test our resolve, but they also provide the fertile ground in which we grow and flourish. By embracing change, maintaining a positive perspective, and nurturing resilience, we unlock the profound truth that life does, indeed, get better. With each step forward, we move closer to a future brimming with possibilities and the potential for lasting happiness. So, embrace the journey, trust in the process, and look ahead with hope – for life's brightest chapters are yet to be written.
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#2 Why is CBT the most common therapy?
I may or may not be introducing a slightly controversial idea. Cognitive behavioral therapy is not the most effective therapy, but is instead used as a way of quickly managing those in need of psychiatric help. It is based on the assumption that a patient is neurotypical, so it is inherently a system that often does not closely fixate on the difficulties of those who are disabled. While it brings awareness to how you feel, it often provides you distractions to ease the swelling anxiety or such other emotions. CBT struggles to help the underlying problems within the individual, without extreme effort, and is acutely known as a "short term 'good'" in helping 'symptoms' of a psychiatric illness. In fact:
‘Researchers have found that CBT is roughly half as effective in treating depression as it used to be’' (2015)
Yes. I took that from the Guardian, but I can reassure you that there are far more quotes outside of an otherwise susceptible source.
"Behavioral therapy has its origins in American “behaviorism.” This theory assumes that human behavior is learned and can therefore be unlearned or learned anew.
For example, people who have developed depressive thoughts often tend to withdraw and give up their hobbies. As a result, they feel even more unhappy and isolated. Cognitive therapy helps to identify this mechanism and find ways to become more active again.
In anxiety disorders, behavioral therapy often includes learning methods to help you calm down. For example, you can learn to reduce anxiety by consciously breathing in and out deeply so that your body and breathing can relax. When doing this you concentrate on your breathing instead of what is bringing on your anxiety. These kinds of techniques can help you to calm down instead of getting all worked up with anxiety."
Alone, CBT cannot pull you out of a 'mental low': you might need other forms of reflection.
Now, most of us know that mental illness (for a lot of people) is heavily interlinked to either :
Inherited traits. Mental illness is more common in people whose blood relatives also have a mental illness. Certain genes may increase your risk of developing a mental illness, and your life situation may trigger it.
Environmental exposures before birth. Exposure to environmental stressors, inflammatory conditions, toxins, alcohol or drugs while in the womb can sometimes be linked to mental illness.
Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When the neural networks involving these chemicals are impaired, the function of nerve receptors and nerve systems change, leading to depression and other emotional disorders.
Now, frankly, I understand how CBT can help an individual navigate through their thoughts, and how it may even be necessary for some to take the first step. CBT is there for those who are anxious (about therapy), it brings them into the world without being judged (hopefully), and then allows them to take the next big steps. Through their hopefully neutral or positive information gained from it, they can move on and find new, better, ways to develop a better mental health positions. However, the reason why I listed those 3 little 'mental illness is interlinked to', is because CBT does not help any of those directly. It takes your thoughts, and then provides you the positive juxtaposition. I think that nothing is particularly wrong with CBT itself, it's simply the ignorance some people continue to endeavor in. This ignorance is particularly visible in our educational system today. With each new generation, there are new difficulties; that is hard for every generation before to understand. Sometimes, we just need to acknowledge that there will always be a lag behind each generation; but all you need to do is listen, then you'll move on from there.
Listening can be hard when you've been surrounded by noise all your life.
TYPES OF CBT:
"Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)
This form of CBT combines cognitive behavior therapy with meditation and helps cultivate a non-judgmental, present-oriented attitude, which is referred to as mindfulness.
MBCT can effectively help you deal with:
Anxiety
Depression
Bipolar disorder
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Wondering what the difference is between DBT vs CBT?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is another evidence-based type of cognitive therapy that uses strategies like problem solving and finding acceptance. DBT is highly effective for the treatment of powerful emotions and severe mental health conditions. Those who benefit from DBT tend to see things in black and white. They view situations as one way or the other. They may not be able to see a middle ground or find a grey area. DBT can potentially help if you lack coping skills and find that you move from one crisis to another. Dialectical behavior therapy can also help you gain the skills you need to cope in a more effective manner.
DBT is known to effectively help those struggling with:
Borderline personality disorder
Bipolar disorder
Substance abuse
ADHD
Eating disorders
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
This behaviorally-oriented CBT technique relies heavily on positive reinforcement and counter-conditioning. The goal of ACT is to change how you respond to your inner experiences.
Inner experiences include:
Emotions
Thoughts
Impulses
Physical feelings
Acceptance and commitment therapy teaches you how to stop denying, avoiding, and struggling with your inner emotions. You’ll learn how to acknowledge deeper feelings. As you move through talk therapy, you may begin to realize that your feelings can be appropriate responses to certain situations. Once you grasp this way of thinking, you can start accepting the hardships and issues you’re experiencing. This acceptance allows you to make the behavioral changes necessary to improve your life.
ACT can help you learn how to cope with:
Depression
Social anxiety disorder
Stress in the workplace
Psychosis
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Test anxiety
Chronic pain
Substance abuse and addiction
Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)
REBT is an active-oriented therapy approach that helps you identify irrational beliefs like self-defeating feelings and thoughts. You’ll learn how to actively challenge irrational thoughts and eventually be able to recognize and change your thought patterns. Ultimately, REBT teaches you to replace negative thoughts with healthier, more productive beliefs.
REBT is one of the types of CBT that’s been shown effective in treating individuals dealing with:
Anxiety
Guilt
Depression
Inappropriate or extreme anger
Unhealthy eating
Aggression
Procrastination"
WHAT THE NHS SAYS
it may not be suitable for people with more complex mental health needs or learning difficulties
it involves confronting your emotions and anxieties – you may experience initial periods where you're anxious or emotionally uncomfortable
it does not address any wider problems in systems or families that may have a significant impact on someone's health and wellbeing
it focuses on the person's capacity to change themselves (their thoughts, feelings and behaviours)
it can be as effective as medicine in treating some mental health problems and may be helpful in cases where medicine alone has not worked
Honestly? I'm sure a good selection of medical professionals are always trying to maintain awareness about these. There's only so much you can do while in your preoccupation and contract. Each form of CBT will have a varying effect on each individual! Don't take all my little rambles to heart, take them with large bags of salt. There's many individuals out there with just as valid sources of information.
Remember! I spend only a couple hours in my evening to do this, I'm not a qualified person at all. Don't run away from CBT if it's the only thing you can access, it's usually better than nothing.
Oh, by the way, it's the most common due to its accessibility (and as a result) the research into it. We're constantly researching other forms of medical help (I hope), so one day, maybe we'll find something even better than what we have now. The CBT we had in the past most likely wont be comparable to the CBT in the future.
An interesting argument for: Why Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Is the Current Gold Standard of Psychotherapy
Why CBT is effective
Addressing the Uncertainties of CBT
Long-term Outcomes of CBT
Yup! Hope this wasn't too long this time either.
#medicine#psychology#cognitivehealth#debatable#sorry for long post#long reads#mental health#therapy#interesting#rambles#just a silly idea i had#not a professional
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What did you think of AkiAudreyMax's storyline in season 2? What do you think they were going for, with the way they were written in the series finale? What would have happened in a season 3? What do you wish that had happened with them? What storylines could have been explored? I really like your writing of them. Going through all of your stories right now.
Hey anon, thank you so much for your message and your kind words about my writing, it made me grin like an idiot and also reminded me I should go edit the remaining chapters in a fic I'm writing now.
My answer turned out to be very long, so the rest of my ramblings are below the cut.
Overall, when I think about Aki, Audrey and Max storyline in season 2, it just kind of makes me sad. I've read the interview with Safran saying the trio were supposed to be endgame, so that's nice to know and I think they would have got back together by end of season 3. I have no clue how the show writers would have gone about that, because personally I think they wrote themselves into a bit of a corner at the end of season 2 by leaving Audrey and Aki together. I think the writers should have broken all of them up at the end of season 2 and not just because of the pact they made, but because we spent all of season 1 watching Aki and Audrey trying to figure out why their relationship no longer works and, in the end, they realise it doesn't work, because they both want to be with Max too, that's their whole season 1 arc. So then to end season 2 with Audrey and Aki being a couple and everything is great between them is redundant and not very interesting from a viewer's perspective, and from within the story, it strengthens Max's viewpoint, that he was just something extra for them to spice up their relationship rather than an equal partner in a relationship. So, then it is much harder to write a continuation of that story, because Audrey and Aki did the one thing that Max was scared, they would do. So, I don't know how they would have earned Max's trust back in the show, but it probably would not have felt earned, because it's such a big betrayal of Max's trust.
In general, up until the end of season 2, I liked the trio’s storyline, the exploration of their relationship and various insecurities they all had, so I was happy with it. Some of the stories could have lasted a few more episodes instead of being wrapped up neatly by the end of each episode, but I thought it made sense that Max was unhappy with Audrey and Aki by the end of the season, because it did feel sometimes like Aki and Audrey were still a unit and Max was on the outside, so when he gets angry with them and breaks up, it made sense to me. The main thing I would have changed about the end of season 2 would have been that once Max breaks up with them, Aki and Audrey decide they want to stay together and betray the pact, but then when we see them a few months later in Italy, they're unhappy, maybe snapping at each other, there’s constant tension between them that culminates in Aki and Audrey also breaking up, because they don't work as a couple, as they've learned in season 1. And then in season 3, during the next school year, they're all on their own, pinning for each other. That way Max's trust would have still been betrayed, but the fact that Aki and Audrey could not last together, would also show to Max that he was equally important in that relationship, because even though Audrey and Aki wanted to stay together, they couldn't do it without him. So, I would have liked to see something along those lines! And then of course a happy ending by the end of the show, I believe those crazy kids care about each other and could have made it work 😊
I know the show is about high-schoolers, but in ideal world I would have liked to see them older and still together, how they navigate the difficulties of a somewhat unconventional relationship as they grow older. Being in a relationship with one other person can be hard enough, so a relationship with two people can be twice as difficult sometimes! I guess that’s why I’ve written quite a bit about the trio being in college in my fic, because I’m more interested in that future aspect. It’s also been more than a decade since I’ve been a teenager, so I can remember better what it’s like being in your mid-20s!
Thanks for the ask again anon, it’s been nice to imagine what could have been on the show and ramble about them 😊
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Hi Ralph, neurodivergence anon again. After more reading I am split because I don’t have as bad difficulties as it seems most people have, but yet various things really resonate. I also feel like I don’t know if I’m being truthful or not because I am not sure I know about myself, which makes this more difficult. Either way I don’t think I could get ever a professional diagnosis not just because I’m afab and brown, but also because all of my teachers thought I was the perfect student since (1/4)
I was quiet, smart, and worked hard to never upset any teachers, and my parents always attribute my home behavior issues to me being too particular, a ‘bad child’, and just immature with communication. Also, thank you for your words about validity of my distress, I have always just had people yell at me for overreacting to things so I feel like I am overreacting too. I guess the point you made about it being ok either way, I was feeling like I needed the label because my sister basically (2/4)
said that was the only way she would take my freaking out or being particular seriously and not get mad at me about it. But your saying “you are allowed to be the way you are” was something I have never heard before this and even though I want to continue to improve myself, hearing that made me feel less hopeless, so I really really appreciate it. Either way I’ve started using strategies for autistic people for being better at (3/4)
friendships and they’ve already started working which feels amazing. So, thank you thank you thank you <3 :) (4/4)
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Oh anon - I'm so sorry that you've never had someone tell you that you're allowed to be the way you are. It is absolutely true - and also the way you are is OK - it's the world that's the problem.
Your sister has made a decision about how she's going to navigate the world - and that involves not believing what people say about their experience, and instead insisting that they need an external validation, before she recognises what they're saying about their life. I think that's a really bad decision that she's made. And it doesn't mean anything about you.
I'm going to make a couple more suggestions - I hope that's OK. As well as continuing to read and think about autism and figure out what steps would be useful for you - can I also suggest you look up the social model of disability? This very short video is a good introduction.
And you mentioned work on improving yourself and I'm not sure what that looks like. But if it means trying not to respond to things that cause you distress, can I suggest that might be both difficult and not improve your life that much. Instead, you could work on identifying when things are causing you distress and figuring out how to avoid them. Look to improve yourself by being kinder to yourself, rather than getting better at not reacting when the world is being cruel.
I hope those are useful - and ignore them if they're not. I promise the way you are is OK. And I wish you luck with learning to deal with the world the way it is. Your curiosity and thoughfulness about yourself will be useful in that process I promise.
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Not to quote Freud and I obviously don’t know much more than being on a perfect level in the dunning Krueger curve where I think I know things but hear this out:
“A man should not strive to eliminate his complexes, but to get into accord with them; they are legitimately what directs his conduct in the world.”
I think that, wrt my experiences in therapy (more disclaimers that I don’t know every therapist in the world but I think I’ve seen like 10), there was a lot of focus on eliminating my symptoms, somehow curing me. I was mostly in for anxiety & depression and I think a lot of that stemmed from me trying to push away complexes, which, if attempted to touch upon in sessions, was often brushed aside or given a reaction that I didn’t feel safe to bring it up again.
One of my therapists refused to let me talk about my past bc “let’s focus on the now”, and all of them tended to minimise what I was talking about. It’s not paranoia, it’s just anxiety. Everybody feels that way sometimes. Go for a walk. You’re just imagining things & that’s ok but don’t do it too much. Etc. juuuuust get better and learn how to function in society like everybody else!!!
Not to mention how some would get offended if I questioned or challenged them?! & how often would they misunderstand me, perhaps in a subconscious desire to squeeze me into a nice little symptomatic box where they have their toolkit to work on me with, and I’d have to sit there and explain and explain what I mean bc they wouldn’t LISTEN. They’d HEAR and they’d make up their mind what I was saying and transfer that onto me. Like ok sorry I’m bad w expressing myself. Maybe try to learn my “language” and get to know ME, not who you THINK I am?
&& now I ofc can’t speak for every single psychoanalyst out there nor every experience & I think I’ve touched upon this before here but first and foremost I am not being minimised nor am I being told to fix my complexes. Nobody’s telling me what to do. It feels like I’m getting more insane but at the same time it feels like I’m getting a better grasp on how to navigate reality in ways that work for me. All of this comes from just talking and talking and talking about everything. Reflecting and analysing and finding the patterns that cause difficulties instead of reading symptoms in vacuum. There’s no quick fix; it’s learning to get to know myself and being my own friend instead of enemy.
Ultimately I don’t feel like a patient, I don’t feel sick, sure there’s something “wrong” with me. I just lie down on the couch and talk shit for an hour. Occasionally it can get Very Painful & im experiencing like. Weekly ego deaths at this point but I’m coming to terms w it instead of resisting. And with the bad also comes the good I think.
#I don’t have a point w this but I’ve been having a lot of thoughts recently#blog#does this make sense idk#I also expected a psychoanalyst to be smug and annoying (he is annoying but in a different way)#but boy compared to some of the smartass therapists I’ve met.?!
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Principles of game level design
I decided to explore more about the principles of game design and try applying them to my game so that it can be engaging to the player.
The principles are as follows;
Is fun to navigate - A player's interaction with the level is through navigation, and as such the level should be created in such a way that the visual language of the level should be consistent so that the player can instinctively be able to guide themselves along the game. Through the use of colour, form and lighting the player should be able to have a streamlined experience navigating the game.
tells the player what to do, but not how to do it - Just as the principles state the game level must tell the player what to do, not how to do it. The game level must give the player their own unique experience while playing the game whilst making sure the player is always aware of the game's main objective. The objectives of the game should visually stand out from the level's surroundings, it must adopt the "show not tell" principle as words are not what should be used to tell the story.
constantly teaches the player something new - In gameplay, a large portion of the fun player's experience stems from learning something new in the game to stimulate the brain. If the player is able to easily figure out the mechanics they become bored of it and will no longer pay attention. A good level is able to grab the player's attention throughout the gameplay by putting on different spins to make the game more compelling.
is surprising - the surprise need not be a huge shock to the player, but instead it could be a small surprise about a mechanic of the game that they had been aware of or had been using for a while so that a player is able to have unique experiences with your game
Empowers the player - video games are a form of escapism, a way that [layers can escape their reality and enjoy themselves, so the game mechanics should not ask the player to do tasks that are similar to the real world. Instead the players actions should have a noticible effect on the game world.
Control the difficulty - a good game would allow the player to choose their difficulty, they would be given the option of choosing, easy, medium and hard, the 3 basic levels.
is efficient - a game would only have a finite amount of resources to draw from, as such the designer must ensure to maximise the resources in order to create efficiency in the game. An example is using modifiers to the games modules to create variation, that way you save resources and have some variation in the game.
creates emotion - The architecture of the design must create an emotional impact with the player, the narrative or visual style must have contribution to the players feelings towards the game, it must create spacial empathy.
Driven by your game’s mechanics - the game level design is driven from the games interactions, the games mechanics, this is what makes video games different to other forms of entertainment.
keep the game balanced - a good level design should be challenging for the player but not too challenging for them, it needs to keep the player invested and ensures that they do not give up.
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Capturing Attention and Understanding: The Power of In-Product Infographic Design
In today's digital landscape, attention is a precious commodity. Users are bombarded with information, flitting from one app to another, always on the hunt for the next dopamine hit. As web and app creators, this presents a constant challenge: how do we effectively communicate the value of our products within their own interfaces? That's where in-product infographic design comes in, a potent blend of visual storytelling and strategic information delivery, primed to capture attention and drive understanding.
Imagine navigating a new fitness app. Instead of dense paragraphs explaining workout routines, a vibrant infographic bursts onto the screen. It utilizes clear icons to showcase key exercises, color-codes difficulty levels, and displays animated progress bars for motivation. This isn't just information; it's an engaging narrative, guiding users through their fitness journey step-by-step.
But effective in-product infographics are more than just eye candy. They're meticulously crafted tools that serve specific objectives:
1. Simplify Complex Data: Let's face it, not everyone loves staring at spreadsheets. Infographics translate numerical data into easily digestible visuals. Charts, graphs, and icons transform percentages and statistics into tangible insights, empowering users to grasp complex concepts at a glance.
2. Enhance User Onboarding: First impressions matter, and a well-designed infographic can be the welcoming handshake that greets new users. By breaking down key features and functionalities in a visually appealing way, infographics streamline the onboarding process, eliminating friction and boosting user engagement.
3. Promote User Education: Learning new software can be daunting. Infographics can step in as patient instructors, offering bite-sized pieces of information that guide users through workflows, highlight hidden features, and answer frequently asked questions. This proactive approach to user education fosters confidence and encourages exploration.
4. Drive Action and Conversions: Infographics aren't just passive storytellers; they can be powerful calls to action. Strategic data visualization can highlight the positive outcomes of using your product, subtly nudge users towards desired actions, and ultimately boost conversions.
But crafting compelling in-product infographics requires more than just throwing visuals together. Here are some key principles to keep in mind:
Know your audience: Tailor your content and tone to resonate with your user base. What information is most relevant to them? What visual style aligns with their preferences?
Focus on clarity: Simplify, simplify, simplify. Avoid jargon and overly technical language. Use icons and illustrations judiciously, ensuring they enhance, not obfuscate, the message.
Prioritize hierarchy: Organize information logically, guiding users' eyes through the infographic with clear headers, subheadings, and visual cues.
Embrace interactivity: Static visuals are great, but interactive elements can take things to the next level. Consider incorporating hover effects, clickable elements, or animated graphs to enhance user engagement.
Align with brand identity: Infographics should be an extension of your brand, echoing your color palette, typography, and overall visual language.
In-product infographic design is an art form, but one that yields significant rewards. By understanding the power of visual storytelling and applying these principles effectively, you can create infographics that not only capture attention but also drive user engagement, education, and ultimately, success. So, unleash the power of visual communication within your product – your users will thank you for it.
To further enrich your blog post, consider including:
Real-world examples of successful in-product infographics. Showcase how other companies are using this strategy to achieve their goals.
Tools and resources for creating infographics. Give your readers some practical pointers on where to start and how to bring their infographic ideas to life.
A call to action. Encourage your readers to experiment with in-product infographics and share their own successes.
With this comprehensive approach, you can create a blog post that not only informs but inspires, empowering your readers to harness the power of in-product infographic design and transform their own digital experiences.
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Decoding-the-Code-A-Deep-Dive-into-Applied-Behavior-Analysis-ABA-Therapy
Imagine a world where understanding behavior isn't just an art, but a science. A world where we can systematically analyze and modify our actions, leading to positive outcomes not just for ourselves, but for those around us. This is the world of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of human behavior.
But what exactly is ABA therapy? In simplest terms, it's an evidence-based approach to understanding and changing behavior through the principles of learning. Think of it as a decoder ring for the language of behavior, allowing us to decipher why we do what we do and how to modify those actions in a desired direction.
The foundation of ABA lies in behaviorism, the study of observable and measurable behaviors. Unlike traditional therapies that delve into the realm of thoughts and emotions, ABA focuses on the concrete: the actions we take, the stimuli we encounter, and the consequences that follow.
How does ABA therapy work? The process hinges on three key principles:
1. Positive Reinforcement: This isn't just about carrot-and-stick tactics. Positive reinforcement in ABA involves acknowledging and rewarding desired behaviors, strengthening the likelihood of their repetition. Imagine mastering a challenging math problem and receiving a high five from your teacher. That high five becomes a reinforcer, motivating you to tackle more difficult problems in the future.
2. Extinction: Not all behaviors warrant reinforcement. Sometimes, the best way to address unwanted behaviors is to simply withhold attention or any other reinforcing consequences. By taking away the "payoff" associated with the behavior, we encourage its gradual extinction. Think of that persistent whining fading away when you calmly walk away instead of giving in to demands.
3. Antecedent Manipulation: Before behavior occurs, there are often environmental factors that set the stage. Antecedent manipulation involves modifying these contexts to prevent unwanted behaviors from taking hold in the first place. For example, providing fidget toys during a long lecture can help a child with attention difficulties stay focused and avoid disruptive actions.
But where is ABA therapy used? The applications of ABA extend far beyond textbooks and classrooms. Here are some of the most common domains where ABA shines:
1. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Extensive research has cemented ABA as the gold standard treatment for individuals with ASD. ABA can help address various challenges, from improving communication and social skills to reducing self-injurious behaviors and promoting independent living skills.
2. Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays often benefit from ABA therapy. By breaking down complex skills into smaller, achievable steps and using various reinforcement techniques, ABA can help these children meet developmental milestones at their own pace.
3. Intellectual Disabilities: Individuals with intellectual disabilities can learn and thrive with the help of ABA. By adapting the intensity and format of interventions to individual needs, ABA can empower these individuals to communicate more effectively, develop self-help skills, and participate more actively in their communities.
4. Behavior Challenges: Whether it's tantrums, aggression, or difficulty following instructions, many children and adults struggle with challenging behaviors. ABA can offer a systematic approach to understanding the triggers and functions of these behaviors, leading to effective strategies for managing and reducing them.
5. Learning Difficulties: Struggles with reading, writing, or math can be frustrating and discouraging. ABA can be used to assess learning styles and identify specific areas of difficulty. By utilizing data-driven methods and targeted interventions, ABA can help individuals overcome learning barriers and achieve academic success.
However, it's important to remember that ABA is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every individual has unique needs and preferences, and effective ABA therapy must be tailored accordingly. A key aspect of ABA is ongoing assessment and data collection, allowing therapists to continuously adjust their interventions for optimal results.
Furthermore, the ethical considerations surrounding ABA cannot be ignored. Critics have raised concerns about the potential for manipulation and over-correction within ABA practices. It's crucial that ABA therapy is implemented with respect for individual autonomy, prioritizing client choice and empowerment throughout the process.
Ultimately, ABA therapy is a powerful tool with the potential to transform lives. By understanding and applying the principles of learning, we can unlock a world where behavior becomes a bridge, not a barrier, to fulfilling lives. Remember, ABA is not about controlling or manipulating individuals; it's about collaborating with them to build the skills and strategies they need to thrive in their own unique way.
This article is just a starting point. To continue your exploration of ABA, consider seeking out reputable resources, including professional organizations like the Behavior Analysts Certification Board (BACB) and Autism Speaks. Remember, knowledge is power, and when it comes to understanding human behavior, ABA offers a powerful decoder ring.
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Navigating the intricate world of baby’s sleep patterns can often feel like deciphering a complex puzzle for new parents. Understanding how your infant sleeps is not just about getting them to sleep through the night; it's about fostering healthy sleep habits that support their developmental needs. From recognizing the various sleep cycles to adapting to the ever-changing patterns, this journey requires patience, knowledge, and a nurturing environment. In this space, where rest and tranquility are paramount, the role of a calming atmosphere becomes crucial. Here, we'll explore the delicate intricacies of infant sleep and how creating a serene sleep setting, an area where Sukoonify's soothing lullabies and music play a key role, can make all the difference in your little one's slumber. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of baby sleep patterns, offering insights and guidance to help you and your baby embark on a journey of restful nights and peaceful days.
Overview of Infant Sleep
The sleep patterns of infants are as unique and varied as the babies themselves. In the early months, an infant's sleep is a rapidly evolving landscape, differing significantly from that of older children and adults.
- Sleep Cycles : Unlike adults, infants spend more time in REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep, which is crucial for the extraordinary development happening in their brains. Their sleep cycles are shorter, typically lasting about 50 minutes, which explains the frequent awakenings.
- Developmental Changes : As infants grow, their sleep patterns change. Newborns might sleep up to 16-18 hours a day in short bursts, but by the time they reach six months, many can sleep longer stretches at night.
-��Day and Night Confusion : Many newborns have their days and nights mixed up. They tend to sleep more during the day and stay awake at night. Gradually, they learn to adjust their internal clocks to the typical day-night cycle.
This early stage of life, with its erratic sleep patterns, calls for an environment that promotes calmness and relaxation. In the upcoming sections, we'll delve into the factors influencing baby's sleep and how an environment filled with soothing sounds, like those provided by Sukoonify, can be instrumental in nurturing healthier sleep habits.
Common Sleep Challenges in Infancy
Understanding the hurdles in an infant's sleep journey is crucial for parents seeking to provide the best care. These challenges, while common, can vary in nature and intensity from one baby to another.
1. Frequent Night Wakings : Many infants wake up several times during the night. This can be due to hunger, the need for a diaper change, or simply a part of their natural sleep cycle.
2. Difficulty Falling Asleep : Some babies struggle to fall asleep on their own. This can stem from overstimulation, lack of a bedtime routine, or the absence of a comforting sleep association.
3. Short Naps : Infants often have brief naps instead of longer, consolidated sleep during the day. This can be due to developmental stages, environmental disturbances, or not recognizing sleep cues.
4. Sleep Regressions: At certain developmental milestones, typically around 4 months, 8 months, and 12 months, babies might experience sleep regressions, a period when their sleep patterns shift and they wake more frequently.
5. Overstimulation Before Bedtime : Overstimulation close to bedtime can make it harder for babies to settle down. This is where creating a serene environment, perhaps with the soft melodies of lullabies, can be immensely helpful.
While these challenges might seem daunting, there are ways to navigate them. Music and sound have a profound impact on sleep, and this is where Sukoonify steps in. Offering a range of soothing lullaby songs and playlists, Sukoonify aims to create a tranquil atmosphere conducive to sleep. In the next section, we'll delve deeper into how Sukoonify's offerings can enhance infant sleep through the power of music.
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Tips for Establishing Healthy Sleep Habits for Infants
Cultivating healthy sleep habits is essential for an infant's development and the overall well-being of the family. Here are some practical tips that can aid in this process:
1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine : Consistency is key. A regular bedtime routine, which could include a bath, a quiet story, and playing a soothing Sukoonify lullaby, helps signal to your baby that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
2. Create a Conducive Sleep Environment : Ensure the nursery is calm, quiet, and comfortably cool. Consider using blackout curtains to maintain a dark environment and a white noise machine or a Sukoonify playlist in the background to drown out household noises.
3. Watch for Sleep Cues : Learn to recognize your baby’s signs of sleepiness, such as rubbing eyes, yawning, or fussing. Responding to these cues promptly can make it easier to settle them to sleep.
4. Encourage Daytime Naps : Proper daytime sleep can lead to better nighttime sleep. Ensure your baby has a comfortable place for naps, and consider playing a gentle Sukoonify tune to help them drift off.
5. Stay Patient and Flexible : Every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be willing to try different strategies and adjust as needed. Remember, it’s normal for sleep patterns to change as your baby grows.
By integrating these practices, along with the soothing melodies from Sukoonify, you can create a nurturing sleep environment that benefits both your baby and your family. As we conclude this guide, let's reflect on the journey of navigating baby’s sleep patterns with patience, understanding, and the right resources.
As we conclude, remember that each baby's sleep journey is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay patient, be flexible, and don't hesitate to lean on resources like Sukoonify to find the rhythm that works best for your family. Here’s to peaceful nights and joyful days in the adventure of parenthood.
#baby sleep patterns#Baby Music To Sleep#lullaby for babies to go to sleep#Lullabies For Babies#Baby Lullaby Songs#Lullaby Songs For Babies#Baby Lullaby Music#Sleep Lullaby
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Potential Character for Mrs. Kelsey and Tumblr 10/4/2023:
Jacob “Jake” Talbot, Werewolf and New Student at Cemeterra High:
What he’s from: Cemeterra High.
Background:
Jake was an ordinary teenage human who was starting his freshman year at high school, living at home with his parents, Lawrence and Gwen, and his bratty twin sisters, Mary and Shelley. Jake always felt like he never fit in in his family. His sisters were just spiteful snobs who were child models for tween magazine, and his parents, though they loved him very much, Jake felt like they favored his sisters over him. At school, because of his geeky interests, Jake started out as a bit of an introvert. One autumn night, against his parents' wishes, Jake goes to a party instead of attending one of his sisters’ shoots, to be with this girl he had a crush on at the time, only to find that it was a cruel prank. Returning home, defeated, Jake got into a major argument with his parents, stating how he always feels like a freak, and that he never fits in anywhere. Jake storms outside and takes a walk to clear his head. Unfortunately, there was a full moon that night. When Jake came home, his arm was bleeding, and he claims he was bitten by a really big “dog”. Then after getting exposed to the light of the moonlight, Jake slowly started turning into a real live WEREWOLF!!!
Now stuck in this new monster form, soon after, Jake receives a mysterious letter announcing his transfer to Cemeterra High, a creepy school, in a monster-dominated land called “Cemeterra”. But since monsters have a very medieval attitude toward humans, Jake had enough sense not to mention he used to be human. The terrified boy was having a very difficult time fitting in, and was desperate to find a cure for his werewolf curse to return to his old life, until a kindly group of teenage monsters took him in and befriended him. With their help, Jake learns to survive the trials and tribulations of being a teenaged monster, and in doing so, he begins to change his outlook on the monster world, as well as his own life, and even ends up catching the eye of a popular vampire girl…
How he is like me:
We’re both clever, intelligent, cautious, kind, friendly, mischievous, a little sarcastic, protective, easily frustrated at times, and somewhat nerdy. Also, we like our friends. Granted, it’s sometimes hard to deal with various aspects of my personality (i.e. being easily frustrated, sometimes), and it’s not always the right time to be sarcastic or mischievous. And sometimes I need help dealing with frustration.
Kelsey Notes:
Freshman year in high school can be difficult because you start school in a new environment, you start to care more about what people think about you, and immaturity leads to mean bullies
As adults starting out in a new environment you are just finding out how your personality fits in with those around you.
In addition to fitting in at school, he as to adapt to becoming a werewolf and has to navigate what comes with that territory
Becoming a werewolf ended up being a “blessing in disguise”- he found an environment that suited him and was surrounded by others that were more like him and having to deal with similar magical situations.
Everyone is self conscious and as we get older, we learn to embrace our weaknesses and accept that, like everyone, we have faults that can make it more difficult to get along with others.
Learning to become more self aware of the things you struggle with can help you recognize when you might be more prone to lash out at others.
Preventative strategies can be useful for this- if we know we’re having a bad day and more likely to lash out- we can communicate our emotions and difficulties in the moment with our support systems
Rather than feel upset with ourselves that we’ve lashed out at others, we can feel proud that we advocated for help on hard days
#I Have Autism#Autism Blog#I#Have#Autism#Blog#Stories-Me#Stories#Me#Fan Fictions#Fan Fiction#Fan#Fictions#Fiction#Cemeterra#Cemeterra High#High#Jake Talbot#Jake#Talbot#Werewolf#High School#School#How He Is Like Me#How#He#Is#Like#Kelsey Notes#Kelsey
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How Entrepreneurship Can Help You Reach Your Bigger Goals and Dreams
Entrepreneurship is more than just starting a business; it's a journey that empowers individuals to pursue their passions, unlock their potential, and achieve their loftiest goals and dreams. Through innovation, dedication, and a willingness to take calculated risks, entrepreneurship offers a unique pathway to realizing aspirations that extend far beyond the realm of business. In this article, we'll explore how entrepreneurship can serve as a powerful tool to help you reach your bigger goals and dreams.
Freedom to Shape Your Destiny
Entrepreneurship grants you the autonomy to design your own path. Instead of conforming to someone else's vision, you have the freedom to craft your business around your passions, values, and long-term objectives.
Unleashing Creativity and Innovation
Entrepreneurs often find themselves at the forefront of innovation. Pursuing your entrepreneurial vision allows you to harness your creativity, solve complex problems, and introduce new ideas that can reshape industries and even society.
Learning and Personal Growth
The entrepreneurial journey is a continuous learning experience. From market research and financial management to leadership and negotiation, you'll acquire a diverse skill set that enhances your personal growth and positions you as a more versatile individual.
Overcoming Challenges and Resilience
Entrepreneurship is synonymous with challenges. These obstacles, whether they're related to competition, financial hurdles, or unforeseen setbacks, offer opportunities to develop resilience and tenacity. The ability to navigate and conquer difficulties strengthens your character and prepares you for other life challenges.
Impact and Legacy
Building a successful business enables you to leave a lasting impact on your industry, community, and even the world. Whether it's creating jobs, addressing societal issues, or inspiring others to pursue their dreams, entrepreneurship allows you to leave behind a meaningful legacy.
Financial Independence
Entrepreneurship can lead to financial independence, giving you the resources and stability to pursue personal goals and experiences that might have been out of reach otherwise.
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance
As a business owner, you have greater control over your schedule and work environment. This flexibility can enable you to strike a healthier work-life balance, aligning your professional endeavors with personal aspirations.
Networking and Collaboration
Entrepreneurship exposes you to a diverse network of like-minded individuals, mentors, and potential collaborators. These connections offer opportunities for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and collaborations that can accelerate your progress toward your dreams.
Fulfillment and Passion
Pursuing entrepreneurship aligns your career with your passions. When you're engaged in work that resonates with your interests, you're more likely to experience a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Continuous Pursuit of Dreams
Entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination. As you achieve one goal, you'll be inspired to set new, larger objectives. This continuous pursuit of dreams keeps you motivated and ensures that your journey remains dynamic and rewarding.
Conclusion
Entrepreneurship is a transformative endeavor that extends beyond business success. It serves as a catalyst for achieving your bigger goals and dreams, fostering personal growth, innovation, and lasting impact. By embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with entrepreneurship, you can create a legacy that extends far beyond financial gain, leaving a mark on the world while fulfilling your deepest aspirations.
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The Realities of Teaching: What You Need to Know
Are you thinking about switching up your career? If so then you might want to consider exploring the education sector. There are definitely a few key points that you need to be aware of about this possible career path.
What You Need to Know
- Workload: Gain insight into the extensive workload teachers face, including lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks.
- Emotional Impact: Understand the emotional challenges teachers encounter, such as handling student difficulties, managing stress, and maintaining their own well-being.
- Time Management: Discover effective time management strategies to juggle various responsibilities, from classroom instruction to meetings and professional development.
- Classroom Management: Navigate the complexities of maintaining a well-managed classroom, including establishing rules, addressing behavior issues, and fostering a positive learning environment.
- Parent Communication: Learn the importance of establishing open lines of communication with parents, building partnerships, and addressing concerns collaboratively.
- Professional Development: Embrace ongoing professional growth by staying updated on educational trends, attending workshops, and seeking opportunities for self-improvement.
- Student Diversity: Recognize and celebrate the diverse backgrounds and abilities of students, creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.
- Work-Life Balance: Explore strategies and techniques for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, ensuring personal well-being and avoiding burnout in the teaching profession.
- Teacher-Student Relationships: Foster positive relationships with students by building trust, providing support, and understanding individual needs to enhance academic and personal growth.
- Continuous Adaptation: Embrace the need for flexibility and adaptability as a teacher, as educational landscapes and student needs evolve, requiring innovative approaches and ongoing learning.
There’s A Lot Of Tech Involved These Days
First, it’s important to be aware of just how much tech is at the heart of the teaching world these days and the education sector as a whole. Classroom management software is typically utilized to ensure that teachers can engage and provide the same support to every student in the class. A more personalized approach to teaching what to expect from LanSchool classroom management software as well as similar options that are widely utilized in schools today.
Are you thinking about switching up your career? If so then you might want to consider exploring the education sector. There are definitely a few key points that you need to be aware of about this possible career path. Click To Tweet
Of course, this isn’t the only place where tech takes a role. Automated software is often now used for marking and checking work while teachers need to have a firm understanding of how to use various different pieces of online software too.
The Hours Are Longer Than You Assume
Next, it’s worth noting that the hours could be a little longer than you would probably anticipate. People often assume that a teacher's day ends when they leave the classroom and this just isn’t the case at all. Instead, it’s likely that you will need to spend a few hours working once you get home too, preparing for the next day. That’s something to keep in mind if you are planning on becoming a teacher to take advantage of the long holidays. While you will have a long vacation, this job hits you with extra work in other places.
There Are Plenty Of Rewards
Of course, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t rewards. There are plenty of benefits of becoming a teacher that you should be aware of and this extends beyond holiday time. For instance, you’ll know that your work is making a huge difference to the world and lives of the students that you are working with. It can also be quite fun and will give you the chance to stretch your creative muscle as you find new ways to impart key ideas.
You’ll Form Strong Attachments With Your Students
Finally, it’s worth noting that you are likely to form strong connections with your students. This means that you won’t just let them go once they leave your class. Instead, you will probably keep in touch after they finish school. You might even get a regular Christmas card letting you know how they are doing. It can be a lovely long-lasting friendship that only grows stronger every time. This won’t be true with every student but a lot of kids remember their teachers long into adulthood.
It’s clear then that teaching could be a rewarding career choice that you would definitely be wise to consider. Particularly if you absolutely love working with children. Remember, you can work at all different levels of education from kindergarten to college. It’s just a matter of finding the right choice for you.
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07/09/2023 01:41 am GMT
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Dear Dad
Dear Dad,
I hope you have a safe and fun filled adventure in your european excursion! You have worked hard all your life and deserve as many breaks as you wish to take. You have spent your whole life building a safe and comfortable home for your family, and I’m always glad to see you enjoying the fruits of your labor
I am not the greatest person when it comes to emotion, or showing emotional support. I’m very sorry at the passing of grandma (my keyboard doesn’t let me type in Korean or I would have put hal-mun-ee). To be honest, I don’t remember too much of her, and while I am sad at her passing I am directing this letter to you. I cannot tell you to not to be sad, or just “cheer up”, or things like “she had a long life”. Those words, while true and well meant, can often ring hollow to the person hearing them. The truth is, in this life we will never see her again, and that is a great reason to be sad.
We will, however, see what she left behind. We will see that she left behind a great son, someone loving and caring and wise. We will see that he is a great man, and more importantly, a good man, a man good to his wife, his friends, his family, and children. We won’t see everything he suffered through to become a good man: the hardships of losing family; the frustration of moving to another country; the difficulty of navigating life in a foreign language, far from everything familiar. We will not see these things because like all good men he will hide the pain behind a smile, and present his best face to his children. We won’t see him struggle as he starts a business. We won’t see him struggle as he is robbed at gunpoint. Instead we will see him take his children cross country, and provide everything and more, because he is a good man. We won’t see how his heart breaks when his son moves to another country to be a fighter, but like any good father he will let him go to pursue the life that fits him best.
Good men come from good stock, and it is apparent grandma was of the highest quality. As I get older I think I am slowly starting to understand this, especially having lived in Korea. Whenever someone is proud or impressed by me, they say “Your parents have raised you correctly,” and this is true. All the important lessons I have ever learned from you were by watching you, not necessarily listening. Whenever you told me to “get organized”, I’ll be honest, I didn’t really know what you meant, and I was too afraid to ask. The lessons I learned from you were the ones you never told me about, the lessons you showed by example: be there for your family, work incredibly hard, and never ever ever give up. These are the lessons good men pass on to their sons, leaving the world a little better by them having been in it, for that is the definition of a good man.
For a letter that was supposed to be about you, I ended up talking about myself a lot, but I suppose that’s my selfish nature, and the inherent selfish nature of the way children view their parents. Just let me end my letter by talking about myself one more time: Anything and everything good about my nature comes from you and mom. If anyone had ever found me funny, or compassionate, or kind, it was because I came from you. And because you are a good man.
I love you, and I will see you again soon,
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