As we navigated this tumultuous period, the vibrant spirit of our inner child began to dim. The joy of self-expression was overshadowed by the need to conform to expectations that often felt out of reach. In this climate, the natural desire to play, create, and simply be was stifled, replaced by an anxiety over whether we fit into the molds defined by others.

When life feels overwhelming, the concept of "reverie"—a state of being pleasantly lost in one's thoughts—becomes a vital refuge. It’s that dreamy space where you can escape the pressures of adult life, societal expectations, and the relentless grind. So, what does reverie really mean, and how can it help us reconnect with our inner selves?

When you start exploring the idea that you can change the way you think about yourself and your life, you might face skepticism. Some might label it as being delusional, but in reality, it’s a powerful exercise in self-awareness and intentional living. This process is about critically examining your beliefs and deliberately choosing what you want to believe about yourself, your life, and your interactions with others.

In a recent episode of Huberman Lab, Dr. Marc Brackett shared invaluable insights on emotional intelligence, an essential skill for personal and collective well-being. Emotional intelligence isn't just about managing our feelings; it's about understanding and harnessing them to improve our interactions, self-awareness, and overall quality of life. Dr. Brackett’s RULER model—Recognizing, Understanding, Labeling, Expressing, and Regulating—provides a robust framework for enhancing our emotional skills. Here's how we can apply these strategies and also navigate negative energy effectively.

In the hustle and bustle of adult life, it’s easy to lose touch with the playful spirit and boundless imagination of our inner child. We become consumed by responsibilities, deadlines, and societal expectations, often forgetting the pure joy of creativity and self-expression that once came so naturally to us. Yet, staying in tune with our inner child is crucial for our mental and emotional well-being. The arts offer a powerful means to reconnect with this playful essence, allowing us to nurture our creativity and find joy in the simplest of acts.

- Why do you need people to do what you want them to do? Or believe as you believe, or use the same language that you use?

- How does the tension make you feel? How do you manage your discomfort?

- How am I resisting change by clinging to my fears?

- What, if anything, about the idea of unconditional acceptance frightens you?

- How are you preparing a home of unconditional acceptance for yourself?

These questions encourage us to examine our expectations, fears, and resistance to change. They challenge us to consider how we can create spaces of acceptance and warmth for ourselves and others.

By incorporating these practices into your daily life, you’ll create a more balanced and peaceful existence. Remember, protecting your peace is an ongoing process that requires awareness and intentionality. Prioritize your well-being, and you’ll be better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

But remember, we are not alone in this.

We are a community of kindred spirits,

quietly navigating the corridors of our inner worlds while yearning to be seen and understood.

Our experiences may differ, 

but the desire to be noticed without judgment binds us together.

Venturing into the unknown can be daunting, but it's also where the greatest growth occurs. Terra incognita in our personal journeys can involve exploring new hobbies, adopting new philosophies, or even reevaluating long-held beliefs. Each step into the unknown is a step towards discovering more about ourselves and what we're capable of achieving.

Jung’s concept of the persona provides a valuable framework for understanding how societal standards shape women’s identities and experiences. The pressure to conform can lead to the development of personas that may not fully reflect a woman’s true self, resulting in a loss of authenticity and psychological strain. However, through the process of individuation and the collective efforts of feminist movements, women can reclaim their authenticity, challenge restrictive norms, and develop personas that align more closely with their true selves.

In the Pretty Skin Bitch community, we're turning language on its head, transforming words that were once meant to marginalize into powerful declarations of our unique identities. Here, even the word "bitch" becomes a badge of honor—a fearless proclamation of strength, independence, and assertiveness. Let’s delve deeper into how "feral" and "rejected," alongside "bitch," are being redefined to celebrate our individuality and resilience.

Martha Beck's philosophy provides a roadmap for anyone looking to forge a deeper connection with themselves and lead a more intentional life. By understanding her background, embracing her tools, and gradually applying these principles, you can start to experience days filled with more joy, purpose, and authenticity. At Pretty Skin Bitch, we resonate with Beck’s approach as it aligns with our ethos of living true to oneself and celebrating each individual’s unique journey.

Understanding and harnessing the power of body language is transformative, especially when navigating high-pressure situations like academic tests, job interviews, or simply making new friends. At Pretty Skin Bitch, we emphasize the significance of physical presence, which plays a crucial role in building self-esteem and shaping perceptions. Adopting power poses, which are open and expansive postures, can significantly boost your confidence and positively impact how others see you, enhancing both personal and professional interactions.

Becoming a mother doesn’t mean losing your identity. It’s about evolving and incorporating this beautiful new aspect of your life into your existing self. At Pretty Skin Bitch, we believe in supporting this journey, encouraging you to welcome motherhood without sacrificing who you are.

Exploring the power of thought work reveals just how much control we can exert over our experiences and outcomes in life. Understanding that thoughts are optional, and harnessing the ability to observe and change them, is a cornerstone of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and methods popularized by figures like Tony Robbins and Byron Katie. Here are some practical exercises inspired by these approaches that can help reshape your thinking patterns and, by extension, your beliefs and actions.

To initiate meaningful social change, it is imperative that we speak up—not just for ourselves but for future generations. By challenging these outdated norms and advocating for equity, we can begin to dismantle the patriarchal structures that hold women back. Here’s how we can start:

At Pretty Skin Bitch, we believe in the power of words to transform and uplift. By consciously choosing our words and structuring our sentences to reflect positivity and possibility, we do more than just communicate; we manifest a better reality for ourselves and for future generations. Let’s continue to use our language to empower, to celebrate, and to elevate the discourse around aging and life itself. Here’s to more words that inspire and fewer that diminish, to a dialogue that loves and a reality that shines.

lens through which we view the world shapes our experiences and our well-being. This lens is influenced by our surroundings, the people we interact with, and the attitudes we encounter daily. When our perspective becomes clouded with chronic negativity or aggression, it can significantly impact our mental and emotional health. Here's how you can adjust your lens for a more positive and enriching life experience.

Recognize the Need for Change

The first step in adjusting your lens is to recognize the signs of a negatively skewed perspective. If you find yourself constantly expecting the worst, feeling bitter, or being overly critical, it might be time to consider why and how you can initiate change. Acknowledging that your current view might be limiting or harmful is crucial in paving the way for a shift.

There comes a pivotal moment—The Awakening—when we start to sense that the life we're leading may not align with our true selves. This realization often manifests as dissatisfaction or a lack of fulfillment, signaling that our external realities and inner truths are out of sync. Whether it's in our careers, relationships, or personal aspirations, this period marks a deep stirring within, urging us to reevaluate and realign our paths.