![A-to-Z Reflection [2016]](https://jenncrowellauthor.files.wordpress.com/2016/05/a-to-z-reflection-2016.jpg?w=764)
I wasn’t sure whether I would actually finish the A to Z Blogging Challenge this past April, but I did — and absolutely loved it. I’ve learned so many things from the experience. Continue reading
A to Z Challenge
Not Quite Zen, But Getting There
Seven years ago, while in a lot of distress, I entered a program of therapy called DBT, which emphasized concepts from Buddhism. It literally saved my life. Continue reading
Staying in “Yes”
This week at the dance class I attend, we moved to a song that talked about “staying in yes” — focusing on what you want rather than what you don’t, evaluating all the options and choosing the best one. Continue reading
Xenophobia: An Act of “Othering”
The term xenophobia is traditionally used to describe fear of literal foreigners from distant countries. I think it can reasonably describe any process by which a person or group of people are perceived as “the other.” Continue reading
Weathering the Storms of Anxiety
I frequently struggle with bouts of severe anxiety. One of my (usually effective) coping strategies is to distract myself, but lately I have found that tuning into the anxiety helps as well. Continue reading
The Importance of Validation for Abuse Survivors
The need for validation is an utterly human one. We both desire and deserve to be heard — and this goes doubly so for those of us on the margins. Continue reading
Understanding Self-Harm Urges
I have been self-harm free for just over seven years (go me!), and if I’m being honest I must admit that I do sometimes still have urges. They used to scare me a lot, but I’ve come to view them as important information. Continue reading
Owning Your Truth
I believe strongly in the power of narrative to shape and heal. The stories we tell about ourselves hold the potential to empower us, and allow us to own our truths. Continue reading
Finding Solidarity in the Struggle
Having multiple disabilities can often be isolating, but I’ve found solace in solidarity. Learning about the rich history of movements fighting for civil rights gives me a context in which to put my own challenges, and empowers me when I feel most downtrodden. Continue reading
