yes. and there’s also a correlation between survival mode and not wanting to dress well, adorn yourself, do self care, do your hair, nourish yourself. you just don’t have energy to care about beauty and sensuality because your nervous system is busy keeping you safe.
I’ve started appreciating days where nothing dramatic happens. no bad news, no stressful interactions, no overwhelming thoughts. just a normal, quiet day where everything is calm. those are the days that actually feel like rest.
Somewhere in your 20s or 30s you’ll get the opportunity to rebuild your life after a negative loop, heal from what broke you, live in your own space, reconnect with your discipline, and learn to love yourself again. It’s very important that you see that journey through.
If you’re reading this today, let this be your reminder that God is still writing your story. The chapter you’re in right now may feel difficult, but difficult chapters are not the end of the book. Joseph had the pit before the palace. Ruth had loss before restoration. Hannah had waiting before answered prayers. Your story is still unfolding. Keep praying. Keep believing. Keep showing up. God has a way of bringing beauty from places that once looked broken.