As I looked in the mirror one day, I noticed something interesting about the wrinkles around my eyes - they were in the shape of a crow's feet. Now, I know they are called crows feet and I have had lines at the side of my eyes for quite a few years but this was the first time I’d actually seen that they are in the shape of a bird's feet. Crows feet. I get it now.

What’s the big deal? Great question. While this may seem like a small detail, it felt significant to me because it represented a deeper shift within myself. Through my journey of healing from childhood trauma and discovering my sensitivity as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), I've become more conscious and aware of myself and the world around me. I reckon those crows feet have been there for a while and I just hadn’t noticed them. That’s what happens when you heal and become more conscious: you start noticing things. I was excited to see the crows feet because I was seeing ME more clearly.

• Healing from Childhood Trauma

  For many years, I carried the weight of my childhood trauma without even realising it. It wasn't until I started therapy and doing deeper self-work that I began to heal. Through therapy, I was able to identify the patterns and behaviours that were holding me back, and start to make changes. I also began to practice self-compassion and self-care, which allowed me to release the shame and guilt that I had been carrying. As I worked through my past pain and trauma, I started to feel lighter and more free. I noticed that I was able to see things from a different perspective and was no longer held back by my past.

• Discovering my Sensitivity as an HSP

  As I continued on my healing journey, I stumbled upon the concept of being a Highly Sensitive Person. It was like a lightbulb went off in my head - suddenly, everything made sense. I realised that my sensitivity wasn't a weakness, but rather a strength. Being an HSP means that I am more attuned to the world around me, which allows me to be more empathetic and understanding of others. It also means that I can become overwhelmed by certain stimuli, which can be challenging at times. However, by understanding and embracing my sensitivity, I am better able to manage these challenges and thrive in my life.

• Increased Consciousness

  As I started to heal and embrace my sensitivity, I began to notice more things around me. The beauty in nature, the nuances in people's expressions, and even the small details in my own face. I realised that this newfound consciousness was a direct result of my healing and growth. By becoming more conscious, I was able to appreciate the world around me in a deeper and more meaningful way. I also became more attuned to my own needs and desires, which allowed me to make decisions that were in alignment with my true self.

• Seeing my Crows Feet as a Sign of Growth

  When I noticed the wrinkles around my eyes, I could have easily felt self-conscious or embarrassed. After all society tells women we must “stay young and beautiful”. But instead, I saw them as a symbol of my growth and healing. The fact that they were in the shape of a crow's feet felt like a nod from the universe - a reminder that I am on the right path and that my journey is one of growth and expansion. A nod to nature as well because as humans we are all part of nature (something I think we often forget). I realized that each wrinkle and line on my face tells a story, and that they are all a part of my journey. Instead of trying to hide them or erase them, I have learned to embrace them as a symbol of my strength and resilience.

• The Importance of Self-Acceptance

  Through my journey of healing and self-discovery, I have learned the importance of self-acceptance. By accepting all parts of myself - even the parts that I may not love - I am able to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. This means accepting my sensitivity, my trauma, and even my crows feet. It also means acknowledging that my journey is unique and that there is no "right" way to heal or grow

While crow's feet are often associated with ageing, I choose to embrace them and be proud of the woman I have become. I am grateful for my experiences and the wisdom that has come with age, and I wouldn't want to go back to my younger self. I believe that beauty comes from within and is not determined by our age or physical appearance. It's a reminder to me and to others that ageing isn't something to be feared or ashamed of, but rather a beautiful process that is full of growth and learning. By embracing my crows feet, I am embracing my journey and all that it has taught me. It is important to celebrate our individual journeys and to appreciate the unique features that make us who we are.

Discovering my crows feet was a small moment, but it represented a larger shift in my consciousness and awareness. Through my healing journey and embracing my sensitivity as an HSP, I have become more conscious and attuned to the world around me. I no longer see my trauma as a burden, but rather as a catalyst for growth and transformation. And, I am excited to continue on this journey of self-discovery and growth, knowing that each wrinkle and line is a symbol of my strength and resilience.

I tried to get a photo of my crows feet but failed. As my son kindly said “they’re much more obvious in real life”.

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