Navigating the Shadows: A Mother's Journey Through Self-Doubt and Anxiety

Motherhood: A Double-Edged Sword

For many women, motherhood is a transformative experience that unlocks hidden strengths and abilities. It can be a source of empowerment, granting us superpowers we never knew we possessed. However, for others, it can be a rippling effect that shakes the very foundation of our self-esteem and identity.

The Struggle Within

There are days when the simplest tasks become monumental challenges. Stepping out to visit a hair salon or venturing out alone can feel like scaling an insurmountable mountain. Our inner self-talk becomes a relentless critic, whispering doubts and fears that paralyse us.

The Professional Help Paradox

Seeking professional help is often touted as the solution, but it's not always that simple. Sometimes, the advice to "get a job" to boost our ego feels like a band-aid on a deeper wound. While it may provide temporary relief and a sense of accomplishment in the outside world, returning home to our private space can bring a flood of unprocessed emotions from the day.

The Solitude Struggle

In those quiet moments alone, we find ourselves grappling with a tidal wave of feelings and experiences. The weight of the day crashes down, and we feel ill-equipped to handle it all. Our mind races, creating narratives based on our self-talk, often leading us down darker paths.

Breaking the Cycle: Working on Oneself

So, what can we do when we find ourselves in this spiral? Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Energetic Clearing: Practice techniques like meditation, smudging, or energy healing to clear negative energy and create a fresh emotional slate.

2. Verbalise Your Experiences: Talk about your situations and scenarios, either with a trusted friend or into a voice recorder. Hearing your thoughts out loud can provide new perspectives.

3. Journaling: Write about your experiences rather than letting them swirl endlessly in your mind. This can help you process emotions and identify patterns in your thinking.

4. Challenge Your Narratives: When you catch yourself creating a story based on negative self-talk, pause and question it. Is there evidence to support this narrative? What would a compassionate friend say about this situation?

5. Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness exercises to stay grounded in the present moment, rather than getting lost in past regrets or future anxieties.

Addressing the Buildup

It's crucial to acknowledge that these blocks, situations, and experiences in life do build up over time. They create layers of emotional residue that can cloud our judgment and self-perception. Regular self-care and emotional processing are essential to prevent this buildup from overwhelming us.

The Path Forward

Remember, healing and growth are not linear processes. There will be setbacks and difficult days, but each small step forward is a victory. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this journey.

Consider creating a daily ritual that combines some of these practices:

1. Start your day with a short meditation or breathing exercise.

2. Write three things you're grateful for, no matter how small.

3. Before bed, journal about your day, focusing on your feelings and any challenging moments.

4. Practice positive affirmations that counteract your negative self-talk.

Motherhood is a profound journey that can bring both joy and challenges. By actively working on our inner world, we can begin to shift our self-perception and build resilience against anxiety and self-doubt. Remember, you are not alone in this struggle. Reach out to supportive friends, join our mother's groups, or consider working with a therapist who specialises in postpartum issues.

Your journey is unique, and your growth is a testament to your strength. Accept the process, celebrate small victories, and know that by doing this inner work, you're not only helping yourself but also modelling resilience and self-love for your children.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Connect with me if you would like to get a clearing or energetic reading session. Also, join me as we gather for our Ayurvedic Motherhood Circle on the 17th August 2024 in North Brisbane. Let us form a collective group of mothers where we can lean on give strength to each others.