How To Find Your Way in the Dark

I see you, mama. Even in the dark place. The suffocating, I-can’t-find-my-out-or-recognize-myself places.

Here’s a recipe to find your way:

Pause. Breathe. Take 5 extra seconds to brush your teeth, with care. Splash a little extra water on your face, slowly, gently. Look at yourself in the mirror with curiosity, with grace. Sip that coffee, hold the mug to your chest, feel the warmth. Watch the birds outside. Kiss a tiny foot. Put a hand on your heart. Listen to a favorite song. Eat a chocolate. Read a poem. Imagine you can time travel and came back to this moment, to soak it in, to see the beauty around you. Rub your hands together to feel your own warmth. Walk barefoot in the grass. Go for a drive. Hold a leaf close up, inspect its veins. Touch a tree, feel its witness to your life. Whisper thanks. Hold your own hand. Call a friend.

You’ve got this mama. Whether you in the thick of baby blues or dark in depression or just stumbling through the general chaos of motherhood. You will find your way. Even if it’s a stumble and a dark night away.