Saturday, June 20, 2009

Learn to Survive and Thrive!

I survived a painful childhood that included neglectful erratic parents, violent caretakers and sick step-parents. I'll share my story as I go along with this blog. First some notes on the purpose of this space.

I found help through telling my story and hearing how other people found ways to cope. I hope to build a community of folks who want to heal too. No matter where you may be on your journey, lets see what we can do together.

Let me help.

John Bradshaw said he believed all the birds can be flying in the wrong direction. Yes, everyone has some level of family strife. Though all are welcome to participate in this community, I'm hoping to help people who are struggling from painful memories.

Even if you love your parents and you have a great relationship now, you may still need help sorting out how you feel about the past. Therapy can be an excellent tool. I heartily endorse using it along with support groups. I am not a trained counselor and will never pretend to be. I am just someone who survived and I can show you what I did.

If you survived physical or sexual abuse, neglect by means of substance abusing parent, this place is for you.

I believe that people do not make relationship decisions in a vacuum. So if you engage in self abuse as an adult, whether it be substance abuse or staying in a violent relationship, this is also the place for you.

Lets all learn about happiness together.

Friday, June 12, 2009

Sleep

These products help me get the rest I need to start tackling the past.

We'll begin with Chamomile or Sleepy Time tea. They make life mellow and calm and also have a reputation for helping with regularity. I haven't noticed this for myself, but maybe I don't drink enough.

I also found remedy in Calms Forte, an herbal supplement given to me by a chiropractor after an accident. It worked wonders and helped me get to sleep quicker than usual.

Finally, if you are a person who can tolerate dairy, try some milk or cheese. Yogurt might even work, I don't know I'm not a fan. I know it can also help with digestion.

Please check out these fine products from Amazon:

Celestial Seasonings Sweet Clementine Chamomile Organic Herb Tea (Package Count: 6)

HERB TEA SLEEPY TIME EXTRA

Hyland's - Calms Forte, 100 tablets

Have any sleep assistants of your own? Please share them with a comment.