My name is Aaliyah, and becoming mindful saved me from the toxic relationship I endured with Devin. I spent four years with him, continuously walking on eggshells, afraid of triggering his temper. I lost myself entirely, neglecting self-care because I was always focused on avoiding conflict.

After leaving, anxiety gripped me daily until a therapist recommended mindfulness journaling. She gave me prompts that encouraged me to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and note down my emotions without judgment. At first, focusing on the present felt impossible—my mind kept replaying past traumas. Gradually, writing helped me anchor myself in the moment. Self-care became my priority rather than something I overlooked.

Today, mindfulness journaling is more than self-care—it's a commitment to honoring and healing myself after years of neglect.

- Aaliyah