As we continue to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 119 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, focuses on Abuse and Red Flags, finding courage, dealing with Narcissism. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 61 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 61, titled “Relationship Toxicity, Red Flags, Abuse and the Impact of not Even Knowing it”, with guest, Dr. Shelley Morgan. Her journey is a powerful example of what it means to reclaim oneself after enduring emotional, verbal, and financial abuse. Her story sheds light on the insidious nature of toxic relationships and the transformational power of self-rediscovery. Dr. Shelley’s open sharing serves as a reminder that abuse can happen to anyone, regardless of intelligence, success, or background. It's a call to recognize the red flags, break free from the cycles of manipulation, and embrace the healing process of finding oneself again. She reflects on how her mental health impacted her physical appearance, it reminds us of the intricate connection between our inner and outer selves. As she says, when you're happy on the inside, it can't help but show on the outside. Good mental health radiates beauty. This idea aligns beautifully with the concept of Mental Beauty—the consistency between what we feel internally and what we project externally. When we prioritize our mental well-being, it reflects in every aspect of our lives, from our relationships to our self-expression. Dr. Shelley's headline, "Woman Finds Herself Again," encapsulates the heart of her journey. It's about rediscovering the vibrant, active person she once was, before nearly losing herself in a toxic relationship. It's a story of resilience, of coming back to life after facing mental and emotional death.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 119:

1. Cultivate a Daily Self-Connection Ritual

Abuse often disconnects you from your own feelings, needs, and desires. Re-establishing this connection is crucial:

• Set aside 10–15 minutes daily for a grounding practice such as journaling, mindfulness, or deep breathing.
• This ritual reminds you that your emotions and needs matter and creates a space where your voice is heard—by you.

2. Create a Financial and Emotional Safety Plan

Abusers often use financial and emotional control to keep you trapped. Reclaiming even small amounts of independence can help you stay anchored to your sense of self:

• Open a private bank account and begin saving discreetly, even in small amounts. Build a support network of trusted friends, family, or a therapist to validate your feelings and remind you of your worth.
• These small steps toward independence reinforces your ability to make choices and gives you a foundation for reclaiming control over your life.

3. Reaffirm Your Identity Outside the Relationship

Abuse can make you lose sight of who you are outside of the relationship. Reconnecting with your values and interests strengthens your sense of self.

• Make a list of things you once loved doing or were passionate about before the relationship. Choose one activity to reintroduce into your life, like reading, taking a class, or reconnecting with old friends.
• Exploring your personal interests reminds you that your identity is multifaceted and not defined by the abuse or the relationship.

Episode 119 Takeaway:

A self-care technique called ‘The Love Letter to Self’:

• Grab a Notepad or Phone:
  Set a timer for 5 minutes to keep it short and intentional.
• Write as if to Someone You Deeply Love:
  Imagine you’re writing to someone you care about unconditionally—except this time, it’s you. Use loving, kind, and affirming language. For example:
• “Dear Self, I just want you to know how proud I am of you.”
• “You are enough exactly as you are, even on hard days.”
• “No matter what happens, I’m here for you. I’ll always be on your side.”
• Reflect on One Strength or Victory:
  End the letter by naming something you admire about yourself or a small win, like:
• “I’m amazed at how resilient you are, even when things feel tough.”
• “Thank you for being so kind to others and for showing up for yourself today.”
• Close With an Affirmation:
  Wrap up with a loving affirmation:
• “I love you, no matter what.”
• “You are my safe place, and I’ll always have your back.”

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an email to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

As we go extend to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 118 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, focuses on it’s more than just a diagnosis, coming to terms with mortality and death. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 43 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 43, titled “The Journey is more about my death than it is about the cancer”, with guest, Rishma Dhalla. Her journey is a profound example of what it means to confront our deepest fears and find meaning in the face of life's greatest challenges. Her story sheds light on the transformational power of embracing vulnerability, facing mortality, and redefining our relationship with death. Her open sharing serves as a powerful reminder that healing is not just about treating a physical illness—it's about nurturing our mental and emotional well-being, even in the most trying of times. Rishma's courage to explore the depths of her fears and find purpose in her journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Her words perfectly capture the essence of the Mental Beauty Rethink. She says, I love the phrase "mental beauty" because it evokes positivity, hope, and optimism. It's about shifting our perspective to the positive and recognizing that there is always room for growth, no matter how optimistic we may already be. It's about removing the shame and stigma surrounding mental health and embracing a new way of thinking. Rishma's headline, "My death, my way," is a powerful declaration of her journey. It's about facing our own mortality and claiming a level of control over what the end of life might look like, regardless of when it happens. It's a way to engage with the process of dying and find peace in the uncertainty.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 118:

1. Grounding Through Breath and Body Awareness

When fear of uncertainty overwhelms us, the mind often spirals into worrying about the future. To counter this, grounding techniques help reconnect to the present moment. A simple yet powerful method is focused breathing:

• Take a deep breath in through the nose for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, and exhale slowly through the mouth for 6 counts. Repeat this cycle 5 times.

• This exercise calms the nervous system; shifts focus away from future-based fears and allows you to settle right into the here and now.

2. Journaling for Gratitude and Clarity

Fear often stems from a feeling of powerlessness. Journaling can provide structure and control by helping process thoughts and refocus on what is within reach.

• At the end of each day, write down:

• • Three small things you are grateful for that happened today.

  • One action you can take tomorrow, no matter how small, to feel more in control.

• Gratitude journaling trains the mind to notice positive moments, while identifying actionable steps shifts focus from uncertainty to small, achievable progress.

3. Naming and Confronting Fears

Uncertainty often grows stronger when fears remain unspoken. Naming fears out loud or writing them down creates space to confront and reframe them.

• Write down your top three fears and ask yourself: What am I truly afraid of here?

• Challenge each fear by asking: Is this within my control? What small steps can I take to prepare for this?

• By exploring fears directly, their intensity often decreases. Naming fears gives them form and allows you to identify solutions or acceptance.

Episode 118 Takeaway:

A self-care tool called ‘Affirmation-Based Body Scan’:

• To practice, find a quiet space and take slow, deep breaths. Starting at the top of your head, slowly move your attention down to each part of your body. As you focus on each area, pair your attention with a calming affirmation, such as "I am safe and grounded"; “I am okay in this moment.”; "I trust myself to get through this." Notice any sensations without judgment and breathe gently into those areas.

• Conclude with a full-body affirmation: "I am present, I am connected, and I am okay." Allow these affirmations to settle deeply within you.

• This tool serves as a gentle reminder that the body holds calm and safety.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an email to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

As we proceed to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 117 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, focuses on Reframing Struggles: Finding Flow Through Adversity. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 87 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 87, titled “From Survivor of Circumstance to Warrior of Flow”, with guest, Inga Tkachenko Ramage. Her journey is a profound example of what it means to embrace the Mental Beauty Rethink in the face of life's greatest challenges. Her story sheds light on how we can transform our perception of struggles, moving from a mindset of merely surviving to one of thriving and finding flow. Inga’s open sharing serves as a powerful reminder that adversity can be a catalyst for growth and self-discovery. By reframing our challenges, we unlock the potential to not only overcome but to emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. Her words perfectly capture the essence of the Mental Beauty Rethink. When Inga speaks about redefining what truly matters in life, it reminds me that we always have the power to reframe our experiences. A single shift in perspective can open up new possibilities and pathways for growth. It's about creating a new foundation, a new way of seeing ourselves and our journeys. Inga also touches on the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in the context of trauma and accident recovery. In her field, there's often resistance to seeking psychological support due to misconceptions about what it means to prioritize mental well-being. Her role is to educate and empower, helping others understand that mental health is not about labels or diagnoses but about honouring our emotional experiences and finding healthy ways to cope.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ to Move from Isolation to Empowerment and Reframe Struggles inspired by Episode 117:

1. Cultivate Self-Compassion Through Mindfulness
   Begin with small practices of self-compassion to shift how you respond to challenges. When faced with difficult emotions or self-doubt, ask yourself: What would I say to a loved one in this situation? Then, offer that same kindness to yourself. Incorporate mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or grounding exercises to stay present, especially when overwhelmed by stress or trauma triggers. Remember, self-compassion isn’t about ignoring pain—it’s about embracing it with gentleness and understanding, creating the foundation for healing and growth.

1. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Energy
   Learning to set boundaries is an act of empowerment. Identify areas in your life where external demands—be it from work, relationships, or systems—are draining your energy or interfering with your recovery. Start by practicing small, assertive "no's" or delegating tasks that feel overwhelming. Protecting your mental and emotional health is not selfish; it’s a necessary step toward reclaiming control over your life. This shift allows you to prioritize actions that align with your values and long-term goals.

1. Reconnect and Seek Support
   Breaking away from isolation starts with taking small steps to connect with others. Reach out to someone you trust, whether it’s a friend, family member, therapist, or support group, and share your story. If asking for help feels too vulnerable, start by engaging in environments where connection happens naturally—community centres, volunteer opportunities, or local classes. These spaces create opportunities to rebuild your sense of belonging and allow you to see your struggles through a broader lens, transforming pain into a source of resilience and strength.

Episode 117 Takeaway:

A self-care technique called ‘Reframe & Reclaim Journal’:

• Divide a Page into Three Sections:

  • What Happened: Briefly describe the struggle or challenge you’re facing. Write it objectively, focusing on facts rather than emotions to gain clarity.
  • What It Taught Me: Identify at least one thing the experience has taught you about yourself, others, or life. Even small insights—like recognizing your resilience—can be transformative.
  • How I’ll Move Forward: Write one action you can take to reclaim control or find meaning in this struggle. This could be as simple as seeking support, setting a boundary, or practicing gratitude.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an e-mail to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Genevieve shares the journey of redefining success and reconnecting with her heart’s true calling. As the firstborn in a traditional Italian family—with a father who immigrated from Italy—the expectation was clear: get married, have children, and follow a conventional path. Though raised in a supportive environment, Genevieve always felt something was missing. From a young age, she held an unshakable wonder about where her family would come from, knowing instinctively that her path to connection and motherhood would look different. Influenced by societal norms and her upbringing, she pursued what she believed was success: a high-achieving career in a male-dominated business world. For 12 years, she thrived on productivity, accolades, and material comfort. But in a quiet moment of reflection, she thought: If this were the next 30 years of my life, it wouldn’t be enough. That whisper of truth opened a door to something she could no longer ignore—a deep yearning success couldn’t satisfy. She began shifting her energy toward helping vulnerable children. What started as reading bedtime stories in emergency shelters grew into something far more profound. She discovered that while these children were safe, many lacked even the most basic essentials—some had never owned a pair of pyjamas. One child’s confusion over what pyjamas were, struck her deeply. It wasn’t just about clothing; it was about love, stability, and the emotional nourishment every child deserves. Her key message to the listeners is that our loves can have many chapters and it’s never too late to start a new one; we don’t have to follow the script we are handed, we can write our own; trust what shows up in your hearts; stop silencing the parts of you that you have pushed aside; it’s okay to do something different; you don’t have to do it alone – and you’re never too late to begin again.

As we proceed to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 115 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, The Cost of Always Being Strong: Navigating Emotional Labour and Compassion Fatigue. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 54 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 54, titled “She Smiles, She Empowers, While Simultaneously Grieving & Mourning”, with guest, Saidat Abari.

Her journey is a profound example of how embracing vulnerability and allowing ourselves to grieve can lead to deeper healing and growth. Often, we believe that resilience is about powering through life’s challenges without pause. But Saidat reminds us that resilience can also mean slowing down, feeling our emotions fully, and finding the courage to share our pain. Her story speaks to the heart of what we call Mental Beauty—redefining strength and recognizing that true empowerment comes from integrating both our light and shadow. Saidat’s willingness to share her untold story sheds light on a crucial truth: even those who radiate positivity and strength need space to release, reflect, and renew. Saidat’s Mental Beauty Rethink challenges us to embrace every part of our emotional journey. Her headline, “Powerful Woman Feels Weak”, is a poignant reminder that strength and vulnerability coexist. Even someone known as the “happiness infuser” can carry deep, unspoken pain. But as Saidat reflects, healing begins with giving herself permission to feel. She’s learning to get “comfortably uncomfortable” with sharing her grief, a process that’s foreign yet deeply necessary.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 115:

1. Acknowledge Your Full Range of Emotions: Resilience isn’t about pushing through or ignoring difficult emotions; it’s about allowing yourself to experience them fully. Take time to recognize and validate your feelings, even the uncomfortable ones. Embracing your vulnerability creates space for true inner strength to grow.
2. Release Self-Imposed Expectations: Notice where you may be placing unrealistic expectations on yourself to always appear strong or positive. Give yourself permission to let go of these pressures. Resilience includes self-compassion and understanding that you don’t need to have it all together all the time.
3. Find Safe Spaces for Authentic Expression: Surround yourself with people and environments where you feel safe to be your genuine self. This could be through therapy, supportive friendships, or personal reflection practices. These spaces allow you to explore your emotions freely and strengthen the connection to your true, resilient self.

Episode 115 Takeaway:

A self-care practice called ‘Mindful Self-Compassion Journaling’:

• It involves setting aside a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Start by reflecting on any challenges or difficult feelings you’ve experienced, allowing yourself to acknowledge them openly.

• Then, shift your focus to self-compassion by writing supportive and kind responses to your inner struggles, as if you were speaking to a dear friend.

• Finally, note one or two strengths or positive qualities that helped you navigate these experiences, even if it’s simply the courage to reflect. This process not only promotes self-acceptance but also strengthens resilience by fostering a gentle, understanding relationship with yourself.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an e-mail to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

As we go forward to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 114 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, Extracting the Beauty Tangled in Knots of Fear-Based Living. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 71 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 71, titled “Untangling Beauty from Her Tangled Web of Fears”, with guest, Garcia Hanson. Her journey is a profound example of what it takes to break free from the grip of fear and self-doubt. Her story sheds light on how we can find resilience, self-worth, and ultimately, beauty within the messiness of life’s challenges.

Her journey truly embodies the essence of Mental Beauty. It’s a testament to the transformational power of embracing vulnerability and using it as a tool for growth. When we consistently prioritize our mental and emotional well-being, we unlock the ability to live more fully. Garcia highlights this beautifully when she says: “The definition of success is the grace to make changes.” This idea resonates deeply—it’s about breaking free from fear, making room for growth, and allowing ourselves the space to redefine success on our terms. Garcia reminds us, success doesn’t come from perfection or from meeting external expectations. Instead, it’s rooted in finding the courage to untangle those knots and embrace our true selves. Garcia’s Mental Beauty Rethink challenges us to confront the hidden fears and self-doubt that often define our lives. Her story is a powerful reminder that behind every perfect facade lies a more complex, vulnerable reality.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 114:

1. Name and Reframe Your Fears: Start by naming the fears you feel. Write them down, and identify any underlying beliefs tied to these fears—such as “I’m not enough,” or “I’ll be judged.” Reframe these beliefs by challenging their validity and reminding yourself of what’s true about you. For example, replace "I’m not enough" with "I am doing my best, and I deserve to be valued." Reframing gives you a more supportive inner voice, allowing you to embrace self-acceptance while seeing fears for what they are: mental constructs, not certainties.
2. Practice Self-Compassion with Small Acts of Courage: Fear often keeps us from stepping outside our comfort zone. Start by taking small, manageable actions toward self-acceptance. For instance, say “no” to a request when you’re already overwhelmed, or express a genuine feeling with someone you trust. Each small act of courage helps you build resilience and reinforces the message that you’re worthy of acceptance, exactly as you are.
3. Visualize Success and Lean into Your Values: Visualization is a powerful tool for reprogramming your mind to view unfamiliar situations more positively. Spend a few minutes each day picturing yourself navigating challenges with confidence and strength. Tie this practice to your core values—ask yourself how embracing courage or acceptance aligns with your true values (e.g., authenticity, growth, love). Visualizing yourself succeeding in alignment with your values strengthens your resolve to act, helping you move from a fear-driven mindset toward one where you can live freely, guided by your truest self.

Episode 114 Takeaway:

A self-care tool called ‘Mindful Grounding’:

• This involves taking a few intentional moments each day to pause, breathe, and reconnect with your immediate surroundings.

• Begin by finding a quiet place, then close your eyes and take three deep breaths, focusing on the sensation of the breath as it fills your lungs and leaves your body. Once you feel centred, open your eyes and slowly observe five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.

• This grounding exercise gently pulls your mind away from anxious thoughts by anchoring you in the present moment.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an e-mail to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

As we extend to prioritize the unique concept of mental beauty, episode 113 of the Dare To Share Your Untold Story Podcast, Mental Beauty Segments, transformation of the imposter, the uncertainty and her infertility. In relation to this episode topic the prior episode 45 has been selected for further exploration and deeper dive. In episode 45, titled “Ending the Era of the Uncertainty, the Imposter, & the Infertility”, with guest, Alyza Raithatha. Her journey is a deeply moving exploration of resilience, self-acceptance, and breaking through the barriers of mental health stigmas, particularly in the South Asian community. Her candid storytelling offers a window into the struggles that many face but rarely voice—imposter syndrome, uncertainty, and the emotional weight of infertility. Her story shines a light on the inner battle between the image we project to the world and the reality of our internal struggles. As Alyza puts it, “the external world will never know my imposter”. This powerful statement captures the essence of her journey toward embracing her authentic self, even when it feels like the world demands a façade. Her episode highlights the power of reframing mental health. Instead of viewing it as a silent struggle or a hidden flaw, Alyza embraces the concept of Mental Beauty. Mental Beauty challenges the way we think about mental health. It invites us to view it as an integral part of our overall well-being, just like physical health. It’s a shift that empowers us to embrace our vulnerabilities, recognizing them as part of what makes us beautifully human. Alyza’s journey perfectly encapsulates the essence of the Mental Beauty Rethink. It’s about moving away from shame and secrecy and stepping into a space of self-acceptance and empowerment.

3 Practical ‘Mental Beauty Tips’ inspired by Episode 113:

1. Reframe Your Inner Dialogue: Practice Self-Compassion: Start by identifying the negative thoughts that arise when you feel like an imposter. Instead of judging yourself harshly, try to speak to yourself as you would to a friend. Acknowledge your feelings without letting them define you. For instance, instead of thinking, I don’t deserve this success, reframe it to, I worked hard to achieve this, and it’s okay to feel proud of my accomplishments. Use affirmations to remind yourself of your strengths and achievements regularly.

2. Embrace Vulnerability and Share Your Experiences: Open Up to Trusted People: Talking about your feelings of inadequacy with friends, family, or colleagues can help diminish their power. Sharing your experiences can foster connection and show you that many others feel the same way at times. You might consider journaling about your feelings, which can also help you process them and recognize patterns. By expressing your vulnerabilities, you’ll realize you’re not alone, making it easier to combat feelings of imposter.

3. Set Realistic Goals and Celebrate Achievements: Break Down Goals into Manageable Steps: Instead of overwhelming yourself with lofty goals, break them down into smaller, achievable tasks. This approach helps you build confidence as you complete each step. Additionally, take time to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Create a ‘success log’ where you record your achievements and the efforts it took to get there. Reflecting on these successes can help counteract the imposter feeling and remind you of your capabilities.

Episode 113 Takeaway:

A self-care tool called ‘The Practice of Self-Reflection Through Journaling’:

• By setting aside a few minutes each day to write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, you create a space for honest self-exploration. This allows you to identify the triggers and patterns associated with your imposter syndrome.

• Begin by noting moments when you feel like an imposter and the thoughts that accompany those feelings. Ask yourself questions like, What evidence do I have that contradicts these feelings? or What achievements can I celebrate today? This practice not only helps you confront and challenge negative beliefs but also reinforces your accomplishments and strengths. Over time, you'll build resilience and a clearer understanding of your self-worth, empowering you to take charge and silence that inner critic.

Of course, remember, if you want to share something amazing that you would like to have a shout out for on your behalf, just send an e-mail to mentalbeautycommunity@gmail.com.

Spread Mental Beauty, Stop the Stigma!

Jennifer shares her raw and transformative journey from burnout to self-reinvention, proving that it's never too late to rewrite your story. Approaching her 50th birthday, Jennifer found herself at an unexpected crossroads—divorced, an empty nester, unemployed, and bedridden with a stress-related illness—all within a single year. The weight of these life changes led to complete burnout, forcing her to take a few leaves of absence from work. She felt stripped of her identity. She had always been a wife, a mother, and a successful professional, but suddenly, those roles were gone. Overwhelmed with a sense of defeat, she spiraled into deep depression, questioning, “What’s wrong with me?” Self-blame took over as she grappled with the belief that she had done everything right—checked all the boxes of a "successful" life—yet still ended up here. What she didn’t realize at the time was that her entire foundation had been built on a deep-seated narrative of “I’m not enough.” She had spent years proving her worth through achievements, promotions, and external validation, unaware of the toll this took on her mental health. The pressure to be more had been relentless, yet no amount of success ever quieted the inner critic that told her she was still falling short. Despite being driven, accomplished, and well-compensated with prestigious job titles and perks, she had always felt the need to prove her value to the world. But in the depths of her struggle, Jennifer came to a life-altering realization: this wasn’t the end—it was an opportunity. She had the power to redefine success on her own terms and build a life that truly aligned with who she was, not what she achieved. Her key message to the listeners is that no matter where you are starting from, you can choose again, one decision and choice at a time.