Living with chronic eczema is more than just physicalit can be a mental load, too.
Discover how one mom has learned to manage it with joy.
Larissa Cosgrovea mother and self-proclaimed skinfluencer living with chronic eczemaknows a thing or two about that struggle.
This is the first time I remember being self conscious about it, she says.
And there was the time an ex-boyfriend called out her old-lady hands in a casual conversation.
[His] words lived rent-free in my head long after that relationship ended, she says.
…
I wish people understood the anxiety that goes along with eczema.
Those early experiences taught Cosgrove that chronic eczema impacts the mind as much as the skin.
I wish people understood the anxiety that goes along with eczema, she says.
It [can] take a toll on your confidence, your focus, and…your mental health.
It helps keep her priorities in check and gives her indescribable gratitude, she says.
There is the parental pull to put their needs ahead of my own.
When Im caring for them, my skin is not at the forefront of my mind.
In fact, there are days when I dont even think about [it]!
Shes also more aware of self talk.
I attempt to model a positive body image by not talking poorly about my skin.
And as for the kitchen?
This body-mind nourishment is essential in making her feel energized and strong, both physically and mentally.
Getting outside
Check out CosgrovesInstagram feed, and youll see lots of salt, sand, and sunshine.
Nature is healing in so many ways, she says.
Fixating on anything negative, be it your skin or anything else, only continues the stress cycle.
To keep her grounded and grateful, she turns to journaling, meditation, and prayer.
She feels a sense of gratitude for the community shes found onsocial media, too.
Initially, posting photos of her skin felt vulnerable.
It has been so healing to connect to others going through similar challenges.
The support of the community is unmatched.
Before she goes to sleep at night, she takes a moment to reflect on all her blessings.
…
Got it, you’ve been added to our email list.
