I personally feel that us Millennials are going to change the world, one avocado toast at a time. All kidding aside, I think our generation is making it a point to open up and discuss difficult conversations. One of these being mental illness and the struggle many of us face on a daily basis. Talking about mental health used to be taboo, but is becoming discussed more often, as we all know someone that is impacted by this or feel it ourselves.
There is heightened awareness on the importance of self-care, but that looks a little different to each of us. Self-care for some is taking a bubble bath, while for others it may be going for a run. For me, self-care involves yoga, breath work, or sometimes a good nap. I started practicing yoga in college as an activity to do with my roommates (because it was a free class), but fell in love with it the more I practiced. I enjoyed that someone reminded me to breathe for an hour. Inhale, exhale. It was exactly what I needed, especially since I am anxious majority of my life and don’t always take deep breaths throughout the day. When I feel on the verge of a panic attack, I try to using the breathing (Pranayama) techniques that I’ve learned in yoga (I highly recommend looking up and trying the following: Nadi Shodhana, Ujjayi, Belly Breathing, Kapalabhati, and 4-7-8 Breathing).
Being the avid clothing shopper that I am, I love supporting brands that make an impact and have an important mission. I recently came across the company, Own Your Stigma on Instagram. As soon as I followed them, I received a sweet message with a quote and reminding me that it’s okay if you aren’t doing okay. I just loved this because it’s the reminder we ALL need to hear. It’s okay to not be okay all of the time, but know that it will get better. I also think social media makes us feel that we need to always be doing something fun, exciting and instagrammable.
About Own Your Stigma:
Own Your Stigma was created to start opening up conversations about mental illness and to remove any shame or guilt that society has attached to it. They are even more badass because they donate 15% of all purchases to charities that support and provide help to people struggling with mental illnesses. “Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters.”
Own Your Stigma is generously offering a coupon code for my followers use promo code GINA10%OFF to receive 10% off your next purchase!
Let’s keep the conversation about mental health going and be the support system someone needs!
XOXO,
Gee Nicolette
Please remember The National Suicide Prevention Hotline provides free and confidential support 24/7. 1-800-273-8255
The Crisis Text Line allows you to text from anywhere in the United States and Canada to talk with a trained Crisis Counselor. If you’re in the US, text HOME to 741741. In Canada, text HOME to 686868.
gee nicolette 