“Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”~ Brene Brown

Our minds and bodies have an incredible ability to protect us. When we experience trauma or prolonged stress, we develop coping mechanisms to survive. These mechanisms unconsciously become our identity.

In the past, I have used emotional eating as a coping mechanism. I have used immersing myself in work till my bones hurt as a coping mechanism. I have used avoidance and isolation as a coping mechanism. But all because I was too afraid at the time to face the feelings and emotions that were coming up. I did it because I needed to survive through so much trauma without any guidance or knowing how.

I know you know what I am talking about. We all have our very own coping mechanisms.