Manipulating Pain
did I manipulate you to love me yet???
Darling Swee-tea,
I hope this finds you with an autumnal beverage, if not get yourself one (if you can!) and come on back!
Got it? Good! It is truly heartwarming that you would take the time to read this! Last month I got vulnerable about my mental illnesses, and I have published a fully updated list of things that help me with anxiety/panic attacks/PTSD here in case you missed it!
Pain Management
As many of you know, I have spent over a decade searching for pain management. One thing that has significantly improved my life is a Shakti Acupressure Mat, which I was given by a beloved family member last Christmas. In response to my blog post last month, Shakti gifted me a weighted clay wrap that is microwavable (I have been using it every day, it is bliss) and an acupressure headband, as well as inviting me to become part of their brand new affiliate program!
It feels awesome to recommend a company that not only creates fantastic and genuinely helpful products, but also gives 10% of all profits to charity, is environmentally conscious, and really respects their customers and employees. With a 60 Day Trial and an ethos like that, you know just what to put on your gift list this year! You can use the code BLOSSOM10 in the UK and BLOSSOM10 in the USA for 10% off, and I will earn a little bit as commission. Until the 6th Oct this code will be stackable!
After many recommendations from y’all to try out a weighted blanket for anxiety, I reached out to Kudd.ly who were kind enough to create the discount code BLOSSOM15 for 15% off their weighted blankets! I have really enjoyed discovering the comfort of weighted blankets, as has my dog Tonks! I think it has definitely reduced my nightmares and helped my sleep.
For more ideas on pain management, check out my amazon list and my website!
Now I want to know…
What has helped your pain/mental health?
Gift giving season is coming up and if you are anything like me, you could use some inspiration!
As always, anything I earn from Tea with HB goes directly towards supporting disabled and vulnerable people globally, whether it’s creating and distributing free resources through my website, or running our communi-tea discord and hosting events! I only ever recommend something if I have used it myself and LOVED it. Your support is eternally appreciated!
ugly ungratified girl
It has come to my attention that many people have a voice in their head that tells them they are manipulating their loved ones… This is horrid. So, of course, I wrote a poem about it in a recent Poetry Orchard Workshop! I hope it helps you feel less alone if your mind is a rough n tumble sea like mine is.
Everseeking sympathy, I’m a seasoned pro. Did I manipulate them to love me? And how will I ever know? Is the chaos only in my mind? Or are these seeds I let you sow? Did I rot the apple tree? Will I wilt whilst watching you grow? Bitter to my core That you could love her more but I know it’s all a show. The curtains won’t ever close and you must be exhausted, love In those tattered emperor’s clothes
Poetry Orchard has a brand new website and I would love it if you would give it a visit! Leave us feedback by emailing hi@poetryorchard.com! If you’d like to meet some awesome people and nurture your creative flair through writing, drawing, or in any other way, we have workshops coming up inspired by Taylor Swift, Autumn, Optimism, and more!
Brew Crew
Over on discord we’ve been having lots of fun in our aptly named ‘Brew Crew’ calls (thanks for coining the term, Nashira!) From playing word games together and supporting each other through health difficulties, to praising each other’s crafting talents, and sharing book/game/film recommendations, it’s the perfect place to make a new friend! Reply to this email and ask for a communi-tea discord link to join for free. If you are able to, please consider giving a one-off donation or becoming a monthly member to be added automatically! Being able to sustain this wonderful communi-tea is only possible with your support, thank you so so much!
My mission is to create a more inclusive and compassionate world, so share Tea with HB with a friend to spread the love!
Love,
Blossom/HB x
September Favourites
☀️ Good News: I turned 24! I love sharing a birthday with my Mumma. And…
Akan Books has launched! It is an imprint created to find writers from underrepresented communities, with a focus on giving a voice to unpublished authors from ethnic minority backgrounds, those who identify as working-class, and authors with disabilities. I am so excited that strides for accessibility are being made in this industry!
📚 Book: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
📺 TV: Heartstopper
🍿 Movie: Frozen 1&2, Inside Out 2 (ouch)
🍜 Recipe: Maangchi’s Quick Kimchi! Also fantastic as a marinade for tofu!
🖋️ Journal Prompt: How would you like to use screen time more intentionally?
🎶 Music: Everything To Everyone and Snow Angel by Reneé Rapp