Hi guys!
Usually in things regarding mental health, I keep most things personal. This season is one that I have a great love/hate relationship with because as much as I love the fall (becoming Winter soon), it's also a time where motivation kind of gets hit.
Great news, I am currently in the midst of discussing with my first client for my photoshoots, this is a whole new journey for me and while I'm scared, it's so exciting and I know it'll only lead to further growth. This shoot will be my first paid shoot, and will happen soon and will be posted on my photography page once it's ready. This season has been filled with job hunting, applying for internships, and trying to stay connected to my own hobbies as well. There is always room for improvement, and I need to push through, while keeping myself sane and caring for my own happiness.
I was able to dress up for Halloween, as a creepy clown, and as much as I love cosplay and costuming, the makeup took MUCH effort. I went to Anime NYC and got to get a signed poster of one of my favorite characters, Syaoran Li, from his English VA Jason Liebrecht! He was such a kind person and honestly didn't expect to actually meet him in person. Thanksgiving was simple, but very nice with a ton of delicious food (back to my regular workout and healthy meal prep though, no regrets whatsoever!) and time spent with my loved ones. For everyone who is striving to be healthier in terms of fitness, just know that you shouldn't feel guilty about your macros or eating what you "shouldn't be" (it's a holiday, and everything fits in moderation, no one has the right to police you over your food).
Reverting back to the discussion of Mental Health, I had my first therapy session this past Tuesday! My therapist was such a kind, understanding lady, who I'm looking forward to working more with. I've gradually learned that you don't have to have an extreme issues or conditions to go to therapy, and there is nothing wrong with you if you do. If anything, it's healthy for absolutely anyone to go, given that they have a good therapist, of course. While my ways of coping does tend to be more in spending time with myself, journaling, listening to music, or something of the sort, speaking with someone who isn't directly related to you or of whom you know personally could work wonders. It makes empathizing and explaining certain situations easier with the lack of judgement that you may receive from those you care about. Lately, my anxiety and sleep schedule has taken a toll, and this season has been particularly rough to get out there and motivate myself in continuing my passion or hobbies, and having been used to not talking about my problems with fear of putting them onto others, forcing myself to open up is going to be difficult-but much needed-process.
Additionally, I have started Speech Counseling virtually. I enjoy taking singing lessons occasionally, and am a Theatre person, with a slight lisp. It's gotten INFINITELY better than how it was during childhood, and while I'm not necessarily insecure about it, it's definitely going to be worked on. While due to COVID, I understand mask wearing has been needed before vaccinations started kicking in, they DO NOTHING to help with speaking and annunciating. :)))
All in all, I hope those of you who celebrated Halloween and Thanksgiving had a great and safe one. I sincerely wish that there will be nothing but positive energy and love during this time, if not always. Love yourself and spread it around you. 💖
You are beautiful.
Don't ever let your light blow out.
Love,
Crystal Rivera
November 26th, 2021
