WRT the cliche thread.. would über mums/wives/ women please advise how to live a little.

[RickJames]

I was just thoroughly enjoying the cliche thread and loving hearing how women spoil/ enjoy themselves.

I am far from poor but I have a 'poor mindset'. I also have mental health/ eating disorder stuff going on and I realise I've managed to back myself into a joyless corner of fear/ dread.

My days are literally pathetic apart from doing activities with DS. And I always buy him nice/ posh things. I spend a good portion of everyday crying and punishing myself for not being good enough.

Please can you educate me on standing up for yourself/ buying yourself nice stuff etc. Less wealthy but healthy people - your opinions are probably as, if not more, valuable, as I'm hoping to be inspired but can't imagine myself ordering a Sematic kitchen right now. Just some baby steps into feeling like I can have wants and stuff.

Sorry its pathetic, but thanks xx

I love Botox. Always perks me up. I skipped it over lockdown (obv) and felt so scruffy by the end. Just had it again a week ago and sleazy feel more like me.

Profhilo is great too. Look that up. Gives you an amazing dewy sheen.

Nails, hair colour, hair cut, tan... Get your brows and lashes dyed. Whiten your teeth.

When I do all that, I feel sooooo much better.

I think little treats and rituals help

So a nice mug for your coffee or tea. Taking time to enjoy making it. Take it into the garden and just enjoy being there. Be a bit mindful - what do you hear / see / smell etc.

I'd browse for more beautiful flowers as you obviously enjoy those. Maybe start a cutting patch so you can make little arrangements for inside?

Guinea pigs are ace and I'm sorry you can't have another couple. They bring me much joy.

How are you about crafts? I enjoy the process more than the finished result.

A little evening ritual for bedtime. I have one of those little electric diffusers which wafts out beautiful scents. Neom are good for oils I believe but I'm just making do with some sleepy mixtures ar the moment. Nice pyjamas. Lovely face cream, hand cream etc.

Chocolate subscription or similar?

Timetable in your beauty treatments. I always feel really good when my nails are.done and hair is freshly coloured.

I'm sorry you've had a tough time op. I have had PTSD and it's hard. Have you any good friends you can phone?