Stacey Solomon, anxiety-calming advocate and author of 'Tap To Tidy', chats with Fearne about keeping her hands busy with tidying and crafting to calm her mind. They also discuss body image and her confidence to stand up against media outlets and trolls. Find out more about her book 'Tap To Tidy' and the importance of tidiness for a tidy mind.
Being organized and maintaining a tidy environment can act as a form of self-care and help create a peaceful and enjoyable space.
Engaging in activities like tidying and crafting can act as a form of meditation, diverting attention from anxiety and bringing a sense of calm.
Deep dives
Importance of Being Organized
Stacey Solomon discusses the importance of being organized in her life. Being meticulously organized makes her feel in control and allows her to focus on the things she can control. It helps her maintain a sense of stability and motivation in her daily life, especially with a busy schedule and multiple responsibilities. She believes that organizing and tidying can be a form of self-care and reward, helping her create a peaceful and enjoyable environment.
Coping with Feelings of Control and Fear
Stacey shares her experiences with feeling out of control and the anxiety it brings. She reveals that when she feels out of control, her mind often jumps to worst-case scenarios, leading to fear and intrusive thoughts. To manage these feelings, she focuses her mind on tasks, such as tidying, organizing, or engaging in crafts. She believes that these activities act as a form of meditation, helping her divert her attention and find a sense of calm. Stacey acknowledges that not every day is perfect, but finding coping mechanisms and accepting that some things are out of her control allow her to navigate through these challenges.
Accepting Imperfections and Letting Go of Regrets
Stacey reflects on her experience as a young mom and the insecurities and regrets she felt. Despite initial struggles and lack of support, she has learned to accept and forgive herself, realizing that she has done an incredible job raising her children. Stacey emphasizes the importance of loving and embracing oneself, acknowledging that living in the present and focusing on the love and pride she feels for her children is what truly matters. She encourages others to let go of regrets, embrace imperfections, and find joy and fulfillment in their unique parenting journeys.
Navigating Blended Families and Dealing with Judgment
Stacey discusses the challenges of navigating blended families and the judgment that often comes with it. She shares insights into her own experiences, highlighting the fine balance between being involved yet respectful in the lives of her stepchildren. Stacey emphasizes the importance of showing love and acceptance to all the children, regardless of their biological or step relationships. She addresses the judgment and misconceptions surrounding blended families, expressing the need for understanding and support rather than criticism. Stacey encourages others to focus on creating a loving and inclusive family dynamic, regardless of societal expectations or labels.
Meditating doesn't have to mean sitting still, in fact for Stacey Solomon calming an anxious mind is about keeping her hands busy with tidying and crafting. In this chat with Fearne, Stacey also talks about body image, and where she finds her now infamous confidence to stand up to media outlets and trolls who are determined to shame her.
Stacey's book, Tap To Tidy, is out now, and has lots of brilliant ideas to help you live by the mantra 'tidy house, tidy mind'.
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Content warning: this episode contains discussion of intrusive thoughts, catastrophising, panic attacks, and body dysmorphia.