Reader, 🦋
I see you hiding in the bathroom.
Maybe you're sitting on the edge of the tub, trying to catch your breath after another meltdown.
Maybe you're leaning against the door, tears sliding silently down your cheeks.
Maybe you're just... existing here, in this tiny moment of quiet.
Your nervous system is probably humming like a live wire right now. That's what happens when we're constantly absorbing our children's big emotions, their struggles, their storms.
It's like being a human lightning rod, isn't it?
Here's what I want you to know: This exhaustion you're feeling? It's not because you're doing anything wrong.
Parenting intense kids takes everything we have... and then asks for more.
While you're catching this breath, try this with me:
🦋 Place your arms across your chest, hands on opposite shoulders. Like you're giving yourself a gentle hug.
Begin slowly tapping, alternating right and left, like butterfly wings.
As you tap, just whisper: "My body is safe right now." tap tap "I can feel my feet on the floor." tap tap "This moment will pass." tap tap
This simple butterfly tapping helps your nervous system remember: You're here. You're safe. You're doing your best.
If tapping isn't your thing, try this:
- Run your hands under warm water, really feeling the sensation
- Take three deep breaths, matching them to your hand washing
- Notice the soap's scent, let it anchor you to this moment
Remember: You're not alone in these bathroom moments.
There are so many of us, catching our breath in tiny spaces, learning to hold our own hearts gently.
More tomorrow on how to help our kids learn these same soothing skills.
For now, just breathe with me.
With deep understanding,
❤️ Mishka
P.S. If you're reading this from your bathroom hideout right now - I'm sending you the gentlest hug. 🫂