My dear lgbt+ children,
Here’s a list with little things that might help when you have a bad body dysphoria day. (I wrote this especially with those of you in mind who can’t take any “big steps” (yet), so i excluded tips like “Buy a binder”.).
Of course, you are the one who knows best what’s helpful for you. This list is mostly meant to kick-start your own ideas when you feel stuck on what to do to feel better.
- Use shampoo/lotion/deodorant labeled as the gender you identify with (for example, for a trans boy - men’s shampoo).
- Write positive affirmations on little pieces of paper, fold them and put them in a box. On bad days, grab one and read it.
- Spend time with people who support you (including pets and online friends)
- Listen to your favorite music
- Follow some lgbt+-positivity blogs
- Pour your emotions into art: Draw, paint, sing or write
- Buy/wear one piece of clothing or accessory that represents your gender identity (it can be something small, like a ring)
- Practice breathing exercises (Sounds cliche but can be very calming)
- Make a list with the things that trigger your body dysphoria, so you can come up with ideas how to avoid or limit them
- Make a jar where you can save money in for your future steps (If you’re in the closet: Make up something you save money for, in case someone asks)
- Gather information for your future steps (for example, google how to legally change your name)
- Write a story with you as the main character, use your prefered pronouns and name (You don’t need to tell anyone they’re meant to represent you)
- Go for a walk, get some fresh air
- Look up trans/nonbinary Youtubers/Musicians
- Go to bed early
- Try to find something you like about your body (For example: My eyes, i can run really fast, this body survived a lot so far and it’ll survive this too)
- Try something new: If you never dance, try to dance, if you never bake, try to bake etc.
- It sounds silly but: buy yourself flowers (works especially well when you want to feel more feminine but can work for everyone - flowers have no gender!)
- Avoid looking in the mirror if it’s triggering
- If you want to feel more girly: bubble baths, browse websites of fashion magazines like Vogue, watch make up/beauty tutorials on Youtube, paint your nails (Choose clear polish for your finger nails or paint your toe nails instead (and wear closed shoes) if you don’t want people to ask), use chapstick
- If you want to feel more manly: Wear cologne, wear loose clothes, fill in your eyebrows (so they look darker/thicker), exercise (lifting weights can help you feel more masculine!), wear boxers
(Keep in mind that what helps one person may be triggering for someone else,so if anything on this list sounds unsafe for you, avoid it).
What are your ideas? I’d love to hear them! <3
With all my love,
Your Tumblr Mom
