Love Letters My Clown Era
Jan 14, 2025
Funmi Adejobi, a writer and filmmaker, shares her transformative journey from caregiver burnout to finding joy in clowning. After a traumatic period caring for her ill mother, she struggled with anxiety and social connections. Clown classes reignited her ability to play and reconnect with herself, influencing her dating life positively. From funny mishaps to deep insights on the science of play, Funmi reveals how embracing silliness helped her heal and explore love anew.
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Sudden Full-Time Caregiving
- Funmi became primary caregiver when her mother fell into a coma and her family reorganized around care duties.
- She juggled hospital visits, work, an elderly grandmother, and a foster baby during months of crisis.
Trauma Outlives The Crisis
- Even after the medical emergency resolved, Funmi's body stayed wired for danger and she couldn't relax into normal life.
- Trauma kept her socially anxious and dissociated despite her mother's recovery.
Use Mantras To Re-Enter Social Life
- Work with a skilled therapist and use short mantras to steady yourself before social situations.
- Practice quick pep-talks in private to re-enter groups and enjoy social events.