Insightful Life

Tag: life

  • The Permanent Itch: Therapeutic Reflections on Death Anxiety

    Death anxiety is a pervasive but rarely discussed aspect of human experience, manifesting in health concerns, perfectionism, and avoidance of relationships. Influenced by early life experiences, the instinctual fear of mortality can hinder personal connections and decision-making. To confront this anxiety, exploring literature on death and engaging in therapy can provide understanding and insights. Embracing…

  • They Didn’t Choose This – Why ‘Care Leaver’ Should Be a Protected Characteristic

    The author reflects on their experience supporting care leavers transitioning into adulthood and highlights systemic failures in the support provided to them. Care leavers face significant challenges, including higher risks of homelessness and mental health issues. They argue for the recognition of care leavers as a protected group, deserving legal safeguards to prevent discrimination and…

  • The Roads I Didn’t Travel – In Another Life, I Stayed

    Last week, I visited a past version of myself. A pilgrimage, if you will, to a life I could have had – but didn’t – for one reason or another. As a child, I was fortunate enough to experience holidays in different countries. Cultures, languages, foods, environments, and histories that were unlike my own. Now,…

  • A Brief Exploration Of My Wet-Sock-Related Undoing

    On a quiet Tuesday night, the author reflects on the chaos of parenting, highlighted by a moment where a soggy sock symbolizes the overwhelming daily burdens. After stepping into a puddle left by their teens, the author feels both frustration and empathy, realizing this incident embodies deeper feelings of being overlooked and managing life’s myriad…

  • How Bittersweet It Is To Be A Parent – Travelling the Path to Letting Go

    School holidays often reveal parenting nuances hidden in daily routines. A mother observes her teenage sons deep in conversation, realizing their world no longer centers around her. This realization evokes mixed feelings of pride and grief as she acknowledges the bittersweet nature of raising children. The struggle between joy and sorrow in parenting reflects the…

  • To Live Long and Prosper

    The author reflects on their lifelong enjoyment of Star Trek, particularly Voyager, highlighting its positive influence and strong female role models. They find comfort in the series during uncertain times and discuss its deeper themes applicable to real life, like the idea of “live long and prosper.” This phrase symbolizes holistic living, thriving, and personal…

  • Ever Heard of Matrescence? You Should Have

    The experience of motherhood, often termed “matrescence,” transforms a woman’s identity, leaving her needs overshadowed by those of her baby. Many mothers feel their rights and dignity become irrelevant, as social dynamics shift. Following traumatic childbirth experiences, they may find themselves receiving visits focused on the baby instead of their well-being. This profound transition involves…

  • My Car Broke Down and My Village Turned Up – Challenging Western Notions of Independence in the Modern World

    The author reflects on a car breakdown that highlighted the importance of community and reliance on others. Despite societal pressures to be self-sufficient, the experience reinforced the idea that humans are inherently social beings. They sought help from loved ones and professionals, realizing that vulnerability is part of life. Ultimately, the breakdown served as a…