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In this week’s Quiet Confession, Chelsea opens up the floor for some Q&A and explores the complex intersection of self-care and trauma recovery for parents.

While traditional self-care often fails for those with postpartum PTSD or medical trauma, Chelsea shares their personal evolution from identifying "maladaptive" coping habits to discovering "glimmers" that actually reset the nervous system.

They discuss why former "comforts" can become triggers and how to build a realistic support system after life-altering health crises. 

Tune in for a guide on reclaiming joy while navigating chronic illness and psychiatric recovery.

Key Takeaways

• The Post-Trauma Pivot: Chelsea explains that self-care practices used before a health crisis (such as certain TV shows) can unintentionally trigger flashbacks or anxiety post-trauma.
• Glimmers Over Triggers: While triggers induce panic, "glimmers" are micro-moments—like a specific tea ritual or fresh air—that help reset and regulate the nervous system.
• Communication is Critical: Reclaiming time for yourself requires looking inward to understand your specific needs and then clearly communicating them to your partner or village.
• Building the Village: Chelsea highlights that since support isn't always automatic, parents must be intentional about asking for help to carve out even 15-minute windows for rest.
• Protecting Mental Energy: Shifting from heavy content to light, easy-to-digest media is a strategic way to protect mental energy during chronic illness flares.

This episode discusses topics that may be triggering for some individuals. Please check the show notes for more information and be mindful of your own mental health and comfort levels.

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Special Thanks to Steve Audy for the use of our theme song: Quiet Connection

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