#visualised mental trauma

[yabutsuba]

Tag masterpost, part 2

[adviceformefromme]

HEALING INNER CHILD SERIES [1]

Maybe you spent loads of time alone as a child feeling isolated from the world, and as an adult you have re-created this exact situation, keeping yourself at home, hiding from the world out of safety. Maybe you were abused by male figures in your life, so as an adult you find yourself dating abusive men. There are so many different scenarios, but understanding that you are no longer a child and have a CHOICE to break free from your childhood trauma response and patterns is where you find the power to change your path. This requires REFLECTION, taking the time to reflect in your journal. Ask yourself, what situations from childhood am I re-creating in my life today that do not serve me?

Something I’ve learnt in therapy is to visualise a safe adult protecter in my mind. Who is that person for you? Is it a visual representation of your adult self? Is it a gran parent holding you with love? Create a mental safe space for the little version of you. Go there often. Go there when you feel unsafe. Remind little you that you have a safe space. This new safe space means you’re not alone, you’re not hiding, you’re not running away. It’s accessible at any point in the day. It’s a mental safe space you have created that allows you to feel held and supported at any point needed. 

[theic-manic]

Polytheism prayer PSA by your friendly pagan (since 2002):

While I typically address Hellenic posts on this topic I was previously a Norse pagan due to my ethnic heritage and have some knowledge of Kemetic paganism.

Rather than pull my hair out, I will save you baby witches from spamming our FYP I have created a general format for this question, where research fails:

Ask yourself the following-

1. The pantheon I am praying to is [insert pantheon]

2. Am I praying as a Reconstructionist or neopagan/ eclectic pagan?

3. What type of deities am I praying to? [Different deities have different prayer formats/methods]

4. Why am I praying?

i.e. are you petitioning, offering thanks, or simply building a relationship with the deity/ies?

5. What websites have I checked first?

6. What are my current limitations and do I need to factor these in my research?

E.g. some disabilities may impact certain traditional prayer postures, and when I was a Muslim, there was absolutely no way my undiagnosed ADHD brain was remembering the Islamic prayers (in Arabic), including the physical movements.

Some traditional prayers may require certain cleansing rituals too which may not be entirely accessible.

7. Is any past religious trauma from my upbringing or my society as a whole negatively impacting how I approach my spirituality?

And remember, while I encourage the use of the search bar in these social apps as well, there be children running around here so try to follow advice from those of us who cite sources where possible unless we explicitly state that our approach is UPG (Unverified Personal Gnosis).

⚠️ Finally, if you live somewhere that you can not SAFELY pray openly due to risk of harm to yours, such as spiritual/religious domestic violence, local laws, risk of homelessness if your family ostracises you etc. then fuck asking, just pray internally, in your mind.

Mental temples are absolutely valid and in fact, everyone should learn to meditate (active meditation for my fellow ADHD squirrels) and visualise places of worship so you have a stronger spiritual practice.

Your safety absolutely comes first.

Happy sailing, you digital pagans.

[olivianyx]

Hey , I'm in this void community since 2022 but take void seriously in 2023 April but still didn't get in , I feel down and trying to start again but nothing world still the old story repatation. Done almost all this methods here none of here is working enough 🙃.

Hey! I see, I'm sorry but literally the void community in general is pissing me off, not just you. Sorry if I was being rude, but that's what us happening around here. Idk why tf void is being overcomplicated, when that's YOU yourself in your purest state.

First off, why would you ever, for the love of God, assume that nothing is working? 🤦‍♀️ CHANGE YOUR ASSUMPTIONS. Don't come at me saying nothing is working, cus that phrase just pisses me off (pardon me cus that's like a trauma for me)

Affirm, affirm, affirm. Stick to new story no matter what. Repetition is the key for changing your assumptions. Visualise if you can. Make use of sleep/nap times to your advantage of reprogramming your mind. Listen to subliminals. Do new methods that seem fun. Have fun literally. Maintain a mental diet. Throw that old story out the equation. You have what you want. DOOR SLAM. Most importantly, live in the end. Put yourself on the pedestal. Take your power back.

Do what i said above (only the ones which you feel is comfortable, otherwise don't fucking stress about things you're not comfortable doing/can't do) for 3 days max, I guarantee you, you'll have a shift in your mindset and the 3d. Like literally change your fucking assumptions, working on it for 3 days, just 3 days.

People even have the audacity to come at bloggers telling it's 'nOt wOrKiNg'. Tf?? It's perfectly working, just change the topic which you focus on. It should work, cus it's the LAW. If you want it, and you truly fulfill it in your imagination, you should have it in the 3d too.

Stay true to yourself, and take your power back. Literally you're the creator. Wtf are you doing? You're literally telling me that you can't control the one that you created?? So no, stop that lame old, same old story and stick to that new story. If it takes more than a day Or max 3 days, you're not fulfilling yourself. IT SHOULD MANIFEST INSTANTLY, OR IN LESS THAN A DAY.

[lassify]

Is Twilight a good therapist?

[Spoilers for SxF Ch.77 if you haven't already read it!!]

I am a huge fan of seeing representation of what it's like to be in the therapy room, but there are always soooo many things that the media get wrong, and I really wanted to draw attention to Twilight's portrayal as a therapist. (This is coming from the POV of someone who works in a clinical setting in the UK/Scotland).

Before I get stuck in, I also want to make it clear that Psychiatrists and Psychologists are VERY different, and in this scene Twilight is very much acting as a Psychologist.

("What's the difference?" you may ask.

WELL:

It's easy. A Psychiatrist is trained as a medical doctor, specialising in mental disorders largely from a biology perspective, and they are qualified to prescribe drugs and medication.

A Psychologist on the other hand delivers talking therapies, and is trained to see mental health from multiple perspectives. Basically, exactly what we see Twilight doing in this scene!)

So, we have a spy who has received next to zero medical training and, as far as I can tell, has whizzed through textbooks in his spare time - no placements, no clinical training, no assessments or exams, no clinical supervisor to assist in reflection or case management.

So, how does he do?

Normalising responses to traumatic events ✅

Mr Austin has done the brave thing and turned up looking for help, and Twilight/Dr Forger responds by putting his problems into context, and normalising the experience for him. We love to see it. This is SO important to trauma-informed working.

2. Providing reassurance and expectations for recovery ✅

I love this even more because what Twilight is saying is true. Only 10% of people who experience a potentially traumatic event actually develop PTSD symptoms, and of those, 70% will recover within the year. Twilight is reiterating the message that acute trauma is absolutely recoverable.

3. Teaching and demonstrating coping skills ✅

It's not enough for clinicians to simply tell their patients about coping skills, it is essential to demonstrate them too. Bringing the practice of coping skills into the therapy room is so important for helping the patient to build their skills, and to build the therapeutic alliance as well.

Here, Twilight is teaching a simple breathing technique, but I would also commend him for teaching other coping skills: grounding, distraction, progressive muscle relaxation, visualisation, and more - although all/most of these rely on breath control as a foundation.

4. Encouraging guided self-help and making medical reccommendations ✅✅

Just trying a breathing exercise once does not make recovery easy. Twilight knows it's important to encourage patients to do this in their own time.

And, finally, we see him acting as a psychiatrist, and reccommending medication. (Although, let's temporarily ignore that as a spy he has NO TRAINING in psychopharmaceuticals).

5. Breaching confidentiality ❌ Confrontational approach ❌

Oh, Twilight... You have fucked up. Big time. This is the biggest fuck up of the entire session.

It's his SECOND session with this patient, and not only does he take a confrontational approach (putting Mr Austin on the defensive, definitely not conducive to a good therapeutic relationship), but he has BREACHED CONFIDENTIALITY. Depending on severity this is A FIREABLE OFFENCE (even in the UK!).

6. Positioning oneself as the 'expert' ❌ Telling the patient to confront their abuser❌ Not taking into account patient's readiness for change ❌

Oh HELL no. Absolutely not. Confronting fear is a delicate and lengthy process requiring many steps, and always checking in with the patient at every step of the way. It cannot go too fast.

The therapeutic relationship is an alliance, and it's important to empower the patient to make their own choices in therapy, especially if it's something that is a source of fear.

Not only that, but telling anyone to confront their abuser is straight up the worst advice ever. It's not safe.

6.5 Providing rationale and reassurance✅

Okay, I'll concede on this point. Twilight's rationale is sound: in the 'Cycle of Anxiety', Avoidance is a key factor in maintaining one's fear of something, and it is a core criterion in PTSD. Learning how to face a fear is really important to PTSD recovery.

And it's good that Twilight attempts to reassure Mr Austin's concerns.

7. Giving unsolicited relationship advice ❌

This is NOT your role, Twilight. You are outside the bounds of your job description. It's an admirable effort to connect with the patient, but, alas, not appropriate at this time.

8. Not taking risk into account ❌❌❌

This is a BIG one. It is not normal for a person to be so afraid of their spouse to be showing all the typical symptoms of a fight-or-flight fear response (sweating, shaking, racing thoughts, muscle tension, pupil dilation, etc.), and Twilight is missing some pretty obvious cues to indicate that Mr Austin is in a clearly unsafe situation.

HE IS LITERALLY TELLING YOU TO YOUR FACE!!

AND if its bad enough that Mr Austin can't even speak, that means his fear is bad enough to completely shut off his pre-frontal cortex (the centre of executive function, rational thought and decision making), which means that his fear is THAT bad. Add this up with the insomnia, chronic fatigue, frequent dissociation, irritability and mood swings, and suddenly it is bad enough to be considered a trauma response - and Twilight still doesn't question the source of this trauma.

Also, Twilight, you can afford to put the judgement aside. Please.

9. Facilitating an unsafe exercise ❌ Risking psychological safety ❌

Here Twilight is attempting a basic exercise inspired by exposure therapy (which Twilight is NOT trained in because he is a spy). While it is a therapy that has a decent evidence base, you don't to therapy to a patient, you do it with them, i.e. it's a process that needs to have a clear goal with informed consent.

In this instance, Twilight didn't prepare Mr Austin for the exercise, and he ended up in an actual flashback with very high levels of emotional distress. Unsafe.

And, again, psychiatrists do not typically deliver talk therapy - that is the job of psychologists.

Conclusion

Why did I make this thread?

I'm really happy that Endo put in the effort to illustrate a really interesting therapy session, bringing psychology and trauma into the forefront. These are sensitive topics and I applaud Endo for giving a really complex topic airtime, and doing the research into what a proper therapy session looks like - because, for all my criticisms here, it is a pretty decent represention of what therapy can look like. [Especially the good bits!]

I also think this scene/chapter alone does a great job of reducing the stigma of seeking help for mental illness. It's great to see in mainstream media, especially something as popular as Spy x Family, since Japan does have a high suicide rate and intense stigma for those suffering from mental illness.

However, I still felt the criticisms of Twilight's therapy session were important to voice.

We cannot forget that he is not a trained clinician. He is there to gather information on his patients and their families and connect him to the upper classes, which explains his confrontational approach and disregard to psychological safety.

As much as Twilight has truly absorbed the psychiatry textbooks and committed their content to memory, the effects of the lack of training is obvious, showing up as major errors in his clinical practice - some of which could get him fired in today's system.

TL;DR Twilight is a GREAT spy. But a therapist? Not your calling, my friend.

[thewitcheslibrary]

Grounding 101

Grounding and centering are two of the most important things a witch should know, especially because they often work with energy. The purpose of grounding and centering is to stabilise your energy, draw energy from the Earth, and produce a positive state of being.

Your energy reflects your emotions. It's your "vibe", where your mind has strayed, when you get goosebumps, frightened sweats, or happy tears.

I am sure you can feel your vitality if you concentrate hard enough. Unground energy might feel "fluttery": a racing heart, butterflies in the stomach, and stray thoughts. Noticing your energy is the first step towards grounding, and the more you practise it, the better you will get at tuning in.

Your energy is the first line of protection for how you move through the world: do you recall the proverb "sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me"? Words have the potential to injure or heal, depending on your energy level. Have you ever felt that someone's words punched you in the gut? They basically pummelling your energies (particularly your solar plexus). Sometimes the punch continues to strike even after the person who delivered it has left. Anyone who follows the news knows this for certain! But it's not only about the "bad" stuff; when we're very excited about something, it may be tough to stay in the moment as we wait.

Even if you don't receive one of those gut-punches, you might sometimes lose your energy. Have you ever felt like you arrived home but your thoughts was still in the grocery store? Grounding your energy in your area can help you set clear limits for who gets your energy and when. It might make you feel comfortable and supported rather than unbound. Grounding may help those who don't have a secure physical spot to call home, as well as anybody dealing through trauma and facing triggers, discover a safe place within themselves while they manage the issue.

How to ground yourself-

Take a deep, deep inhalation through your nostrils and hold for a second. Exhale through your mouth until all of your breath is out. Repeat as many times as necessary to feel present.

Position both feet or hands firmly on the ground and concentrate on the four corners of your palms or soles in succession. Focus on your base to feel as stable as possible.

Take a bath or shower and cleanse yourself from the top down. Focus on sending unnecessary or unbalanced energy down with the water.

Take a few deep breaths while picturing a ball of light at the base of your spine. Use your mental skills to imagine it spinning and spinning, catching any loose energy (like spinning cotton candy into a bundle), and then pushing it down into the earth. For a more in-depth ritual, repeat this process for each of your energy centres, beginning at the top and working your way down.

To anchor yourself in your environment, sprinkle salt on the floor and spend a few seconds visualising it shining with rainbow light, connecting with your own light and bringing down any unwanted energy. Then sweep up the salt and discard it.

Make any activity that needs your focus into a grounding ritual: making coffee, combing your hair, writing, gardening, cooking, or anything else that speaks to your spirit and keeps you in the present now.

Light a candle and focus your attention on the flame. Firegazing has been psychologically proved to help focus your mind and relax your energies. If you're using a scented candle, take deep breathes and enjoy the aroma and warmth.

Hold a grounding crystal or use a grounding essence during any of these tasks to summon extra help. Darker-colored stones tend to be the most grounding, although even rock from outside works (and may even work best).

[a-sip-of-milo]

Sorry for this vent, but I need to get this off my chest. This is gonna be really long.

To the 'narc abuse', 'borderline abuse', 'histrionic abuse' etc truthers:

I've had an incredible life, no trauma whatsoever. I've never known what a mental breakdown is, was top student throughout my school years. No bullies, no mean teachers, no abusive parents. Lived rich, won awards, never had a single problem in my life.

I was still a piece of shit.

I'm not empathetic whatsoever. I don't know how to comfort someone when they cry. I was severely detached with all my classmates I was so fucking insensitive. I throw fits of rage if things aren't as perfect as I visualised them. I always shift the blame to others, and if I'm held accountable, I don't know how to actually feel sorry when apologising, even until now. And I'm a neurotypical.

I don't mind being hated for this next part, it's perfectly understandable. TW for abusive & manipulative behaviour, scroll down until you see a #.

At 10, I called a classmate who was autistic and dyslexic "retarded" for not being able to write something despite knowing damn well they were disabled.

At 11, I verbally abused my 8 year old sister multiple times to the point of tears. I insisted (and believed) that she was just being oversensitive. This behaviour started long ago, this is when it reached its peak. It's still happening, but now she is mature enough to stand up to herself and I am mature enough to not be too harsh.

At 12, I gaslighted my then best friend into thinking she was the problem when we got involved in some drama I started. When she didn't take the fall for me, I ignored her for weeks. She started cutting, and I called her an attention seeker.

From then onwards, things just got worse. I stopped being a responsible child to my parents, frequently blamed my friends for anything that went wrong, and took advantage of my little sister's love for me.

And I did not have a single excuse. All I could say was 'I'm sorry', knowing that I'm lying. It's not that I saw my actions as 'okay', my heart just never ached like it was supposed to.

#

For those that scrolled to skip the triggering parts, I just want to say that I was a shitty person and had no excuse for it. I know that, as a child who had the best circumstances amongst her peers, there is nothing you can forgive about it.

I was, in a way, an abuser too. My friend who, at that time, had undiagnosed BPD, was still kinder than me. And before you anti-pd mfers start attacking me, I wanna tell you loud and clear:

No NPD, no BPD, no HPD, no DID, no BS.

I was an abuser.

I'm a neurotypical.

Sorry this took me so long to get to. I really appreciate and admire your honestly, and I hope that you've taken the steps to better yourself since then. I also hope that these people have found peace.

Thank you for your ask <3

[grislyintentions]

|| HC- Diviner's Fate ||

In reference to the Glimpses into the Beyond manuscript penned by Fuxuan herself, she spares little effort in reminding/warning other diviners that any actions that imply attempts to predict Yaoshi's fate will be treated as an unforgivable felony.

Despite the considerable leniency that is offered to those who attempt to predict the fates of other Aeons (still illegal), the Ten-Lords Commission equates acts of trying to predict Yaoshi's as a crime equal to the Ten Unpardonable Sins. Diviners found guilty of said transgression will be punished strictly- provided they are still alive after committing said crime as those who have tried have all met tragic fates of their own.

Given these factors, there are two possible outcomes that befall Diviners who attempt to predict Yaoshi's fate:

Mental Collapse (Subsequent development of Acute Megalophobia)

Divination is by no means true omniscience. It is a practise of making calculations based on recorded instances of data and the Diviner's ability to map out multiple possibilities based on the movements, logic as well as thought processes from it.

As witnessed in March's story quest, the Matrix of Prescience is used by diviners to draw information from the past to predict the future by literally placing the observing person in said variable scenarios to derive accurate outcomes, albeit heightened by Fuxuan's third eye.

The Matrix actively draws the future it observes from Chaos.

So how does one even begin to calculate and predict the fate of Aeons who fill the skies like celestial bodies? A being that is incomparably huge, move according to their own Path with a transcendent mind? How does one even define chaos of such magnitude?

Both devices as well as the living mind has their limits. To withstand, hold and interpret something of this magnitude is realistically impossible to accomplish without breaking something in the process either by fragmenting of memory or mental collapse in efforts to preserve one's well being ie: amnesia, memory repressing etc.

In such a scenario, it is likely that diviners may experience a similar phenomenon. Their added ability to literally "visualise" observations may also cause the Matrix of Prescience to backfire and create a massive toll mentally. And they could thus develop an accute fear of vastness when bombarded with everything at once (fear of outer space, bodies of water, atmosphere so on so forth). TLDR: A living hellscape they cannot avoid. Resuming divination duties would be impossible with the emotional association, PTSD and trauma. ON TOP of having to be punished for committing what is essentially a crime.

Victim of Parasitism (Eventual Brain Death)

To essentially divine an Aeon's fate is to quite literally observe and visualise oneself walking down their path. While it might seem achievable at first, this places the human psyche in a very tenuous position.

They have to possess a certain level of emotional understanding in order to navigate the accurate steps. When tied with their own cultural complicated feelings towards Yaoshi, it can all form a level of cognitive dissonance and dissociation in order to process things.

With reference to how the "Aeons" in Herta's simulated universe could capture notice of the Trailblazer from his actions, why would this then be a stretch? Especially when the Luofu is a place already filled with Yaoshi's blessings, along with those who actively pay homage to their practises, it is all too easy for the Aeon to take notice of repeated engagement from a certain device.

Diviners who try to place themselves in the mindset of an all too generous Aeon will likely be further poisoning themselves with not only knowledge but also a stronger unfiltered emotional connection with Yaoshi.

With parasitic comparisons of my Yaoshi portrayal, I like to think that the diviners may suffer a similar fate to the ants who have the unfortunate displeasure of crossing the path of the Ophiocordyceps unilateralis.

Once infected by the fungi, ants would often alter their behavioural patterns by searching for areas best suited for fungal growth. They then attach themselves to leaves, remaining there to their deaths from which the fungi spores grow and release from the spores in their head. This is something that has devastated multiple ant colonies.

Similarly for diviners, they will remain unawares to the facts that mara symptoms have begun to develop at an erratic rate within them. In the ensuing days to come, they may experience a radical change in ideology, compelling them to follow down Yaoshi's path or join up with the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus.

Those who fight to retain their own lucidity may experience the soul crushing endeavor of losing their mental faculties periodically, feeling their bodies and mind revolt against them. It is a slow, terrifying and debilitating experience that may cause them to take the only means out rather than give in to Yaoshi. Thus, also succeeding temporarily in accomplishing the Aeon's goal of relieving them from 'suffering'. They cannot escape not even in the end.

[multifujoshi]

TW: SUICIDE

Incoming wild fan theory/speculation:

I don't think it's a dream sequence but Jaewon is definitely OUT OF IT. Like this man is either hallucinating during or after a suicide attempt OR he's having a mental breakdown (possibly BPD) where he's visualising his deepest fears and desires.

I think the present timeline for ep 6 ended at the camera breaking. It could've been his last straw and he may have overdosed. He remembered what Jihyun said about calling him if needed and basically imagines what it would be like to actually summon his safe space and go on a beach getaway, free from all his worries and obligations; where he FINALLY talks about his trauma to someone other than his therapist. Someone he truly believes won't judge him or ask him about the supposed role he played in his brother's death. In his imagination, he's finally able to love Jihyun the way he wants to. His love is reciprocated by Jihyun so freely. And then it shifts like a nightmare because mentally ill people's minds are brilliant at coming up with worst case scenarios and making it feel so real. This idea engraved in his mind that he's never going to be able to protect his loved ones because he blames himself for what happened to his younger brother. The guilt has always driven him crazy and Jihyun drowning, him losing another important person in his life is his deepest, darkest fear.

I just want them to be happy T-T

[teddy-bear-queen]

Whats your thoughts on mk monkie form and the specials? To me I'm not worried about mk monkie form like he'll be fine but it's going to be rough not only bc mk monkie form

Is connected to his trauma and a flight or fight response, it connects to his emotions

I think mk needs to heal with his monkie form But it wouldn't be easy bc of it still glitches and struggling buy all in all I'm not worried

I was actually just talking about MKs monkey form with a few people recently!

I definitely think it’s connected to his emotions, like you said. I thought of it as being connected to his negative, “loud” emotions. (Such as fear, stress, and anger). I’ve seen a few people saying it’s his “evil” form, which I think is just… kind of yucky. Idk, it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. I think it (unintentionally) paints a bad image of mental health. Of course, not their intention! I understand where it comes from, as it seems that the Monkey is kind of like… An unfiltered version of himself. So much trauma and negativity he’s trapped inside from what could be years (not sure of the LMK timeline) of trauma. It’s like a really bad mental breakdown, and he can’t control himself during them. But that doesn’t make him evil. Just irks me to hear people say that.

The glitching is REALLY COOL visually and concept-wise, it’s like a visualisation of him trying to hide his problems from others. Trying to keep his trauma, his negativity all within himself. Trying to keep it out of sight. The curse is telling him to embrace it, and furthering his idea that all of these feelings inside of him are bad, chaotic, destructive.

I’m really excited to see Sun Wukong try and train Monkie Kid in the upcoming season(s). I hope they end up having a heart-to-heart once they realise it’s about his bottled up emotions (IF that’s what it is, we don’t really know). I would love to see a scene of Wukong having to hold MK back in this monkey form, maybe he goes too far while in this state, and Wukong has to stop him from doing something he regrets.

GOD can you imagine it? MK losing it, possibly crying, and as he’s about to go too far, Wukong pulls him back, restraining him. He’s like..

“MK!” And he’s like grunting while MK struggles against him, “Snap out of it, bud!”

AAAAAA

These next few seasons are going to be SO GOOD!

I want to clarify:

If you do, or have, called MK’s monkey form “evil”, I don’t think you’re like. This awful person. I understand where the idea comes from, but I just. Really don’t support it. It seems kind of ableist to me (is ableist the term? I’m not sure.)

[section-69]

Hi I saw your tags about having EMDR and how much it helped. I'm currently experiencing EMDR treatment weekly. It's been a game-changer for me and I want to thank you for being brave enough to get help, kind enough to post about it and amplify the things that help and also courageous enough to be open and transparent about mental illnesses and the journey towards healing or at least a better quality of life. I am so glad to see such openness on your blog and I'd like to thank you sharing your own experiences with EMDR. It helps me to know there's another Trekkie out there who it worked for. It gives me hope. 🖖

Eyyy love hearing from other people who've been helped by EMDR! It was completely revolutionary for me - I'm no longer diagnosed with C-PTSD because it Fixed that. I didn't know that was a thing that could be fixed. I'm still amazed every time I use one of the techniques I learned with that therapist because they're not just stop-gaps but actually rewiring my brain. Truly I don't understand how my therapist waving a stick at me while getting me to visualise the traumas happening differently did all that but like. Can't argue with the results.

Also, I used Star Trek a whole lot with my therapist. We mentally sent my abusers to Kronos. Transported my child self into DS9's infirmary. Designed my quarters where I could go to chill after fixing nightmares. Assorted Trek characters started showing up in my nightmares and fixing them before they got too bad.

I dearly hope the therapy keeps being helpful for you too! Well done on finding it ❤️

[generationlosscorkboard]

HEY GUYS AND WELCOME (BACK?) TO DREAMMMMM THEORYYYYYYYY-

(god maybe I need to add another disclaimer saying I'm not affiliated with Game Theory-)

I'm your host, the COOLER ZERO, and today we will be doing an in depth deep dive into the dreams of none other than the Writer of Chronicles Zero themselves.... CHRONOS (I'm still refusing to call them Zero)

Long post once again-

Very quick(?) backstory on Dream Theory/Psychoanalysis for you all:

(I'm not an expert, so give me slack if I'm a bit off-) (you're also welcome to skip this section if you just want the interpretations, I just felt it might be useful)

One of the first main people to use Dream theory in a psychological aspect was Freud, who. Is a person. That had both really good and really bad ideas about the Psyche. If you know anything about him I'm sure you know what I mean. Anyways-

Freud mainly interpreted dreams as being a form of wish-fufillment (though later discussed dreams that were obviously not that) and were often influenced by the preceding day. It's fairly straightforward to see in children, but in adults it often got complex and convoluted, with the original meanings were often lost behind a veil of distortion and disguise. As such, instead of interpreting an object within the dream at face value, you need to instead look deeper and find the real meaning hidden underneath.

Freud had a list of the main ways that a dream distorted it's own meaning:

- Condensation (a singular object represents multiple ideas/associations),

- Displacement (emotion surrounding one thing is instead applied to another),

- Visualisation (a thought is given a visual image),

- and Symbolism (a symbol replaces an action, person, or idea).

Freud also suggested that Nightmares and the like were failures of the minds ability to disguise/redirect fears and anxieties. (Do be aware, like every theory, there can be holes and things not covered. E.g trauma dreams that simply repeat the event in no way showcase wish fulfilment or the above distortions, as Freud's theories would suggest.)

----

Another theorist by the name of Jung, whilst not dismissive of Freud's interpretations, thought the notion of dreams being simple Wish-fulfilment to be rather limiting. He stated that Freud's interpretation of collecting associations would bring insights to the dreamer's mental complex, but not necessarily towards the meaning of the dream.

he instead proposed two approaches to analysing dream material: the objective, and the subjective. In the objective, everything within the dream is what it is at face value (a friend is your friend, a flower is a flower, etc), whilst in the subjective approach, everything instead represents an aspect of the dreamer.

(the article I'm referencing then goes on to say that "if the dreamer is being chased by a crazed killer, the dreamer may come eventually to recognize his own homicidal impulses." which is. A choice of an example.)

Jung also cautioned against blindly ascribing meaning to dream symbols without understanding of the dreamer's situation. One approach he suggests is that one must ask "why this symbol, and not another?", and from there you will find additional things about the dreamer's attitudes. this mightttt be a little tricky but I'll see what I can do.

(I am strictly not using the given examples of this section. Why Jung whyyyy-)

UH, there are other dream theory people- but I've talked about this enough already for a "quick" backstory.

( oh, my old english teacher would be so proud of me referencing Freud and Jung rn-)

----

Time for the actual interpretations!

D1:

the Red Sky: this one's interesting. obviously, red is a huge focal point colour in the gen loss 'verse, but that's not all. first off, we've seen it before. behind one of the dimension doors during The Spirit Of The Cabin, was a beach at which the sky was notciably red. Secondly, do any of you know the rhyme "red sky at night, sailors delight, red sky in the morning, sailors warning"? it's a really old saying (that has some factual reasoning, something to do with air pressure) for predicting bad weather, or in the case of night, good. it's not immediately obvious as to whether the the message in this case is good or bad, as the sun is "gone." (the whole red sky stuff is based on the sun being close to the horizon, so sunrise or sunset.) Perhaps this could be interpreted as Chronos knowing something that is important in someway, but they aren't sure whether it's a good or bad thing. most notably, they can't figure it out because their usual guide/compass/sun isn't around to help them. So it's an important message, yet unable to be interpreted.

Field of a unspecified plant: I'm not gonna lie, I first thought of catcher in the rye when I read this- (I'm not a huge fan of it, but it's fine). regardless, a field tends to represent an openness, an expansion of awareness. it can also be a comfort, something simple, natural- except the "terrain is weird". the distortion shows an upset to this, what would be kinda vibey and chill is now ehgheghegeggeg. Uh, ya. Also- Lostfield lmao-

something go wonky with lil ol' Lostfield.

walking, trying to find something (forgotten): a search for answers? perhaps? not knowing what you're looking for is certainly detrimental, but haven't we all at some point been trying to figure something out whilst not knowing what form the answer might be is? it's a sense of unfulfillment, not being entirely content with your current situation, but not entirely knowing what to do about it.

The Colour red: I'm fairly sure most of you on this website are well aware of colour theory. Regardless, I'm going to recap: red is a bright colour, attention grabbing. it symbolises enthusiasm, power, determination. However, it's also been associated heavily with warning signs and "hey, don't do that!" things, so most people generally have a "oh, that's not good at all" reaction upon seeing something red (especially when it isn't usually.). Also, blood! And painn. I suspect that our friend Chronos isn't doing too well, especially in terms of whatever was "eight months ago" and figuring out who (or what) to trust/go to for help.

sinking in dirt: your movement is impeded. you're 'bogged down' by something that is preventing you from continuing forward. likely, it's your own mental state of being and thoughts, which strengthens my current idea that Chronos isn't sure of who to trust and where to go next.

Cave, but unnatural. it's "created" and geometric: this is such an interesting thing. caves are such a common and natural thing of the world, and can be anything from beautiful to friggin terrifying. The fact it's "unnatural' suggest unease, but not from the fact it's a cave, but rather the fact it's been altered, changed, created. most likely by humans? but you never know. the geometry of it definitely gives off vibes of taking control, "taming" the wild, that sort of thing. (as opposed to the natural curves of a natural cave, when it's been left alone.) so, perhaps one of the things. wait! I nearly forgot about the white rock/concrete- which again! colour theory. cleanliness. blandness. wiping away colour, control. Concrete- man made, solid, controlled. not natural. ya.

"It": how the hell am I supposed to dream theorise on something Chronos isn't even telling us about apart from " waaa I don't wanna look it at it but the dream made me-" okay actually maybe I can do something with that. perhaps this "it" is the truth of something, a grand revilation which has tipped Chrono's life upside down. Chronos doesn't want to look at it because of how disruptive it is to their usual reality, but the dream/their subconscious wont let them forget. Think of it as the refusal of the call portion of the Hero's Journey. can't wait to see how well THAT works out for them-

Back in the field/a cycle: Chronos took the blue pill- they're back where they started. they've refused to act, are ignoring what's going on and not wanting to go any further. does this prevent bad things from happening? No! absolutely not.

(I actually honestly have no idea if I used any Freud or Jung stuff in my interpretations I just kinda- went)

D2 and D3 will come when it is a more reasonable for me to make it- although I'm gonna guess it now: D4 will be up already when I do.

sites I used when researching/making this:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dream_interpretation

Sleepfoundation.org/dreams/dream-interpretation

https://www.cafeausoul.com/oracles/dream-dictionary (sorta. It was a little helpful at some points.)

[brainanalyse]

Is Meditation and Yoga a Sin?

Introduction

The debate over whether meditation and yoga constitute a sin is both complex and multifaceted. These ancient practices, celebrated for their mental and physical health benefits, are sometimes scrutinised through a moral lens. This article explores the various perspectives surrounding this debate, aiming to provide a balanced and comprehensive understanding.

Historical Context of Meditation and Yoga

Meditation and yoga have deep historical roots, tracing back thousands of years. Originating in ancient civilisations, these practices were developed as methods to achieve physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual enlightenment. The techniques evolved over centuries, adapting to cultural and philosophical changes while retaining their core purposes of enhancing human well-being.

The Nature of Meditation and Yoga

Meditation Meditation involves focused attention and mindfulness. It aims to quiet the mind, reduce stress, and promote inner peace. The practice varies widely, from simple breathing exercises to more elaborate techniques involving visualisation and mantra repetition. Despite its simplicity, meditation has profound effects on mental health, including reduced anxiety, enhanced concentration, and improved emotional stability.

Yoga

Yoga, a comprehensive discipline, combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation. The physical aspect of yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and balance. However, yoga also emphasises mental and emotional harmony, aiming to align the body and mind. Regular practice promotes holistic health, integrating physical fitness with mental tranquility.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

Intent and Purpose The morality of meditation and yoga can be largely influenced by the intent behind their practice. Engaging in these activities with the goal of improving physical health, reducing stress, and achieving mental clarity is typically viewed as positive. The ethical implications become questionable only when practices are misused or misinterpreted in ways that contradict personal or societal moral frameworks.

Cultural Sensitivity

Practitioners must be mindful of the cultural origins of meditation and yoga. Appropriating these practices without understanding or respecting their roots can lead to ethical dilemmas. It is crucial to approach them with cultural sensitivity, recognising their historical significance and practising them in a manner that honours their heritage.

Health Benefits of Meditation and Yoga

The health benefits of meditation and yoga are well-documented. These practices are renowned for their ability to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. Yoga, with its physical postures, also contributes to increased flexibility, muscle strength, and respiratory health. Meditation aids in emotional regulation, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and fostering a sense of inner peace.

The Psychological Perspective

From a psychological standpoint, meditation and yoga are powerful tools for mental health. They encourage mindfulness, a state of active, open attention to the present moment. This mindfulness helps individuals manage stress, cope with trauma, and improve their emotional health. Psychologists often recommend these practices as complementary therapies for various mental health conditions.

Personal Stories and Testimonials

Many individuals attest to the transformative effects of meditation and yoga. These personal stories highlight improvements in mental health, physical fitness, and overall quality of life. Practitioners often report feeling more balanced, peaceful, and equipped to handle life’s challenges. Such testimonials underscore the positive impact these practices can have when integrated into daily routines.

Ethical and Moral Arguments

Supportive Views Supporters argue that meditation and yoga, when practised with the right intent, are morally sound. They promote self-care, mental health, and physical well-being, aligning with ethical principles of self-improvement and harm reduction. The focus on mindfulness and balance is seen as conducive to a moral life.

Opposing Views

Opponents may view these practices as controversial if they perceive them to conflict with personal or societal moral standards. Concerns may arise from misunderstandings about the practices’ origins or purposes. However, these views often stem from misconceptions rather than the intrinsic nature of meditation and yoga.

Conclusion

Determining whether meditation and yoga are a sin is ultimately a personal decision. It requires individuals to reflect on their values, beliefs, and intentions. When practised with respect, understanding, and positive intent, meditation and yoga can be valuable tools for enhancing mental and physical health. Each person must consider their unique perspective and context to make an informed choice about these practices.

FAQs

1. Can Christians practice yoga without conflicting with their faith? Yes, Christians can practice yoga, especially if they focus on the physical aspects and incorporate Christian teachings and prayer into their practice.

2. Is meditation just about sitting in silence? No, meditation can involve various techniques, including guided visualization, focused breathing, and mindfulness exercises.

3. Are there any health risks associated with yoga and meditation? Generally, yoga and meditation are safe. However, it’s important to practice yoga under the guidance of a qualified instructor to avoid physical injuries.

4. Can meditation help with mental health issues? Yes, meditation has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving overall mental well-being.

5. Do I have to be religious to practice meditation and yoga? No, many people practice meditation and yoga for their health benefits without any religious or spiritual intentions.

[allnightlongzine]

Fixing your heart: The triumphant return of My Chemical Romance

Aimee Hallsworth explores My Chemical Romance’s sensational comeback in light of their remarkable journey through pain and struggle

Aimee Hallsworth | Sunday June 5 2022 | varsity.co.uk

On an otherwise unassuming Thursday in early May, with little fanfare and no promotion, long-mourned cult sensation My Chemical Romance released their first single since the group broke up in 2013. This new output comes in conjunction with the beginning of the band’s global reunion tour and, as "Welcome to the Black Parade" re-enters the Billboard top 200, their explosive return to the music scene has been nothing short of a sensation.

“A sense of clarity and purpose shines through the song”

The new track, “The Foundations of Decay”, filters over a static noise, building quietly. A sober guitar accompanies the distorted singing of vocalist Gerard Way before the chorus swells into an explosively triumphant crescendo of noise, as Way’s fluting voice carries over the thundering drums. The song is both completely new and wonderfully familiar: like revisiting an old friend. Since the band’s last studio album, Danger Days, all the members, except bassist Mikey Way, have produced solo albums (multiple in the case of guitarist Frank Iero). While Way drew on Britpop influences for Hesitant Alien, Iero lent far more into his punk and indie-rock interests in his first album, Stomachaches. Guitarist Ray Toro’s 2016 alt-rock album Remember the Laughter is masterful, characterised by his soft vocals and wide-ranging musical ability: he plays the lion’s share of instruments on the record. An appreciation of the diversity of these efforts highlights the different influences each member brings to the band: from Toro’s subtle melodies to Iero’s explosive energy, all of which can be felt in their new song.

 Visualiser for My Chemical Romance's "The Foundations of Decay"YOUTUBE / MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE (HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=V2KWUJKRVVS)

“The Foundations of Decay” is an anthem of reunion and of healing. As with many of Way’s lyrics, it’s intensely personal and revisits the theme explored in the band’s very first track: “Skylines and Turnstiles”, where Way expresses the trauma of witnessing 9/11. They meditate on what kind of progress has been made since that moment, both on a personal and global level. There’s a sharp dissonance between the desolate state of world affairs and the mental stability that Way and the bandmates have achieved in the years since they split up. A sense of clarity and purpose shines through the song which lacks the escapism and fantastical theatrics that dominate the bulk of their discography. There’s a sense that music is no longer a form of life support or therapy that Way describes in the video diaries chronicling the band’s early days. It is not a song recounting a harrowing battle with trauma but an exploration of healing that anguish. By lying in the "foundations of decay", one can uncover the roots of the pain that must be healed in order to grow. When Way croons out "you must fix your heart", it is not stance but a stipulation – the heart must be fixed in order to live authentically.

“This is a group of people who have a deep bond with both each other and the crowd”

This celebration of healing is evident in the live shows the band have played so far, all of which have been jubilant expressions of love for everything that My Chemical Romance stands for. These shows have been some of the best in their already impressive career primarily because they are having so much fun. Not tied to an album, there’s room to experiment and change the set list each night. By mixing up their entire discography, lesser known B-sides like “Mastas of Ravenkroft” have been aired on stage alongside classics like “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)”, showcasing their talent without poor mental health and bad coping mechanisms looming overhead.

 My Chemical Romance's official music video for "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)"YOUTUBE / MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE (HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=DHZTNGAS4FC)

The band have all struggled with various mental health problems and addiction over the years. That rawness is reflected in their art. A dominating factor in their staggering success has been the connectivity between the struggles of the band and the struggles of their listeners. When Way rejoices with a crowd in being alive, it’s more profound than just basking in the moment, it’s a celebration of overcoming mental anguish together.

It’s extraordinary to see Way on stage, 45 and joyful, when at one point it was uncertain he would live past 25. The crowds waving at Mikey’s children and Toro kissing Way during one of the Milton Keynes sets crystallises the joyous affection which ripples through their shows. This is a group of people who have a deep bond with both each other and the crowd who exultantly chant their lyrics. In one of his various on-stage speeches, Way explains how he used to work the crowds at gigs before being able to release that self-consciousness, proudly exclaiming: “and now I just feel connected to f-ing every one of you.” The audience roars exuberantly in response. This joy and authenticity seems to be at the centre of My Chemical Romance’s journey moving forward; the band seem so delightfully comfortable in themselves after battling extreme personal hardships and mental demons for so long. It’s going to be nothing but exhilarating to see where they go next.

[thisdreamplace]

i really admire your energy and how in love with life and the world you are. i'd like to reach a similar point too but im finding the 3d unbearable and the fact that im God and the one creating this for myself was pretty freeing at first because it meant that I could change it but 2 years later, everything is worse and knowing im the one responsible is devastating. specifically, i don't understand how to focus on the 4d and leave the 3d alone when the whole point of me getting into loa was to change my life (3d AND 4d). its great to see people emphasising the 4d and love and peace but im human, i have more than just those 3 feelings. i know the inner me is God but im still in a human body in a human experience and ignoring the 3d has made me miserable. i'd like to direct this experience and give myself the opportunity to do, see, hear and feel the things i have experienced in imagination, in the 3d too. I have lived in the 4d for two years now, it's vivid and feels real to the point where hours pass with me visualising a certain scene but once that's over something in the 3d happens and my stomach drops and i have to go back to my imagination and convince myself that i don't feel my heart breaking. it works for a while, i feel powerful or whatever and then i open my eyes and nothing has changed for the better.

my friends who don't believe in the law go out and live their lives and make progress and i have had nothing but stagnancy. they were born not wealthy but not poor either and can afford to support themselves with help from their parents and now independently. they have great personalities and are genuinely good people and I want to be like them too. I keep seeing them get specific things that I want for myself and on one hand im so happy for them and proud that they're having their dreams come true... im ashamed to admit that my blood may have turned green with the envy and jealousy i feel. but that's the truth. i thought i could revise or manifest my way to support as well, not just financially but emotionally, giving myself better parents, better relationships, health and more. i feel stuck and like im running out of time to catch up not just with them, but with where i thought i would be by now. im being vague because I don't want to trauma dump but mentally, this is taking a toll. i really can't go through another year, another birthday feeling such unspeakable pain.

do you have any advice on how i can fix this? should i just leave the law altogether? I know it's hard to give up the law completely one you find it but if going back to believing in "false gods" gives me what i want, then is it so bad? if Judaism can give me love or Buddhism can give me peace or astrology or tarot can guide me to money and maybe the Christian God can grant all of the above, then are they so bad? even if, in the back of my mind I'll most likely always think of them as placebos, it could still work, no? i'd be giving up the pearl but i'd be more satisfied in the 3d that I have to wake up to every morning.

i think that a lot of what youre saying is entirely important bc i know youre not the only one with those type of questions and feelings. everything that youre saying to me is very similiar to how i felt before i finally allowed myself to experience life in a more loving and beautiful and soft way.

i also felt the same, learning about the law and feeling like i had all this control over my life. it felt like i finally found home. then 2 years passed. of course, i did manifest things because youre always going to. its simply automatic. but even with each success, so much of life was still really hard and unbearable, mainly because i was counting on the law to do the thing everyone swore it does. i couldnt understand why things, the things i really wanted, were not showing up. so after 2 years i said fuck this, i am not living this way for a third year. i think its important to note something. how you feel so responsible for everything. its time to let that go. i challenge you to stop upholding yourself to someone else's belief system and use you, your own experience, as a guide. can you really say that for the past 2 years you sat there and actively manifested misery ? or do you believe that bc someone else says thats how it works ? beginning to ask yourself these questions is the way out. use your life experience as the truth, not someone else's claims. i also know what you mean, as it is frustrating and confusing to hear people tell you tthat you can have everything you want (in the 3d) and then to turn around and tell you to focus on the inner world (4d) and let the rest go. because like u said, thats exactly why we come here. for the outer experience ! i think its important to be said, because it allows us to start cracking through the toxic world that manifesting became. because youre right, how are we meant to do both ? well we're not. we are only meant to focus on the inner world (bc we literally have no choice) and let the rest flow. the controversial part is that, where that flows, is exactly where we are meant to go. and sometimes its in different directions than we originally thought it would be. this is why i resisted it for a long time myself. until ofc, like you, i couldnt take it anymore. suddenly my desires didnt feel more important than i was. suddenly i realized how i feel on a daily basis, regardless of anything, is what truly matters.

i think that your friends are a light shining into your life, showing you how smooth and easy life can flow. without even trying. you dont need to feel bad tbh. i think after 2 years, it is beyond normal to start feeling some type of way. i know i did at times ! i would see people in my life, who do little focus on their inner world, getting the things the law promised me i would get. of course, i could feel happy for them but utterly bad about myself and my life at the same time. how could it come to them so easily when i was the one following everything the law told me to do ? i just didnt get it. until it all made sense. it came to them because they were just living life. because they were just being. they didnt have this haunting in the back of their mind everyday, every second, telling them this thing could show up soon. they didnt analyze themselves everyday. they didnt even have a perfect sense of knowing. they just sort of knew what they wanted, and knew either it could or even could not happen, and went on every day. just being... them. and it was enough. so many lightbulbs started going off for me then. i think this is your moment too, to take a step back and start recognizing what simply isnt working for you, no matter who claims its the way. its not your way. i know exactly what you mean because every birthday since i have found out about the law, i have cried or had a meltdown on the day or after it. no matter how beautiful or full of love each birthday was. i couldnt see it or feel is fully. because instead, it was like fuck, another year has passed and this isnt what i saw for myself. what you said truly brings up old memories for me. it reminds me why i left. so if anything, just know you arent alone. this is so normal for many people who spent so much time trusting in what they were learning, and im glad more people are coming to terms with the fact something simply was not right for them !

its time to recognize that you never did anything wrong. i know i didnt and i know you didnt either. its so much easier to blame the person, so that the ego can continue to get high off the promise of control. if you blame the person, then you can still believe in that sense of total control. its a lot easier to do so than to come to terms with the fact that total control isnt what we thought it was when we first came to the law. and not everyone is ready for that convo ! but i put so much into myself, so i won't let anyone sit here and gaslight me and even attempt to say that certain things didnt work for me because i was not doing X enough or i wasnt X enough. and you shouldnt take that either ! not even from yourself ! for me, i know it unfolded that way for the simple fact i was being called to follow myself. and after doing so, ive literally never been lighter. this has quite literally been the most mentally healthy and most joyful year i have had since being alive. and i spent most of this year doing me. not worrying about manifestations.

i will say this. it is hard to give up the law initially, especially after an extended amount of time (years), because you have ingrained it into yourself. it will feel like youre crazy, it will feel like youre lying to yourself. i think that the law is explained in a way that makes it really easy to get trapped, because of how much responsibility is burdened onto your human self. at times you will want to guilt yourself and tell yourself everything is your fault and wonder why you manifested something, because that was your conditioning for the past two years. but i promise you, if you listen to yourself and follow what feels right that starts to go away. if i use my experience as evidence, i know my beliefs arent placebo effects or lies. because its literally been evident in my life. like that, the weight of the law starts to melt away. i stop feeling my human self as so responsible, and allow my true self to take responsibility and trust in that flow. too many of us take on our true selves as our human selves. its simply not the same thing. the god within is always leading you to where you're meant to go and the truth is many people are resistant towards that, so they choose to play god instead as this allows a feeling of more control. this is your wake up call happening now, telling you that the old way simply isnt working.

i also want to clarify that in none of this am i trying to saw the law is fake. manifestation is real. i just think that there is a reframing of it that is beginning to happen that will allow more people to live healthier, happier, softer lives. i think its okay to say "this isnt what i thought it was" rather than to force yourself everyday through the pain, telling yourself that once you just do X right then it will work for you too. that pain is trying to talk to you and tell you to stop, it doesnt have to be that difficult.

i rly felt like this was important to answer. whatever you decide to do anon, i hope that its smth that makes your heart sing. <3

[saintmeghanmarkle]

Why doesn't Meghan speak openly about her mental health treatment?

Why doesn't Meghan speak openly about her mental health treatment? Harry speaks freely about the protocols and interventions that he's done to process his trauma. But Meghan hasn't said anything. We've seen her do a guided mediation via zoom to help her visualise that her feelings are valid because the press is out to get her and she is in danger but she has yet to speak on how she got from suicidal ideation to living her best life in Los Angeles in such a short amount of time without in-patient treatment.Nobody is obligated to speak about their private medical treatments but with such a huge platform and given that she talks about her feelings so frequently and easily, it's surprising that she isn't doing more to spread awareness. Submitted June 13, 2023 at 02:16PM by Aware-Impression8527 https://ift.tt/tW6fdYR via /r/SaintMeghanMarkle