#we're practically encouraging self harm!'

[zwedexx]

Day 2 - Sophie Schmidt x Houston Dash Teen Reader

Summary: R is the Dash's new signing and ends up struggling with their mental health due to the criticism and hate.

WC: 1,716

TW: Bad Mental Health, ED, Self Harm through overtraining

You knew it might happen. Everyone told you it was going to happen, but you didn't believe it would happen to you. You were the best college player, the #1 overall draft pick. You were destined for greatness. The path to the top was clear, and you were ready to conquer the world.

From the moment you were a child, you had a soccer ball at your feet. Your parents liked to joke that you were dribbling before you could walk. Soccer was your first love, your constant companion, and as you grew older, it became clear that you had a rare gift. You led your high school team to state championships, earned a full scholarship to a top-tier university, and dominated the college league. Scouts raved about your agility, your vision on the field, your uncanny ability to read the game several steps ahead. It was no surprise when you were the #1 overall draft pick. The world was at your feet.

But when you finally stepped onto the professional stage, it was a different world. You thought you would be able to keep up, but you were wrong. The players were so much stronger than you, faster than you. You just couldn’t keep up. It felt like you were running in quicksand while everyone else was gliding on air. The NWSL was a whole new level of intensity and skill, and you quickly realized that the gap between college and professional play was much wider than you had ever imagined.

Your first game was a blur of fast-paced action and missed opportunities. You felt out of place, like an imposter wearing the wrong jersey. Your touches were heavy, your passes imprecise. The crowd's excitement turned to frustration as the game wore on, and the final whistle was a relief rather than a victory. Your team lost, and the finger-pointing began almost immediately.

The criticism started to pour in almost immediately. You’d open social media, and all the comments on posts about you or the game were just nasty critiques. They said you were a bust, that you couldn't hack it. The fans blamed you for the team not playing well, and the weight of their disappointment felt like an anchor dragging you down. It was as if the world had turned against you overnight. Every mistake was magnified, every misstep scrutinized. You were living under a microscope, and the pressure was suffocating.

You tried to shake it off, telling yourself that it was just part of the adjustment period. But the comments ate away at your confidence. You started to dread checking your phone, knowing that it would be filled with negativity. Your teammates offered words of encouragement, but even their patience began to wear thin as the losses piled up.

One day after a particularly grueling practice session, you sat in the locker room with your head in your hands. Your teammate, Sophie, plopped down beside you. "Hey, don't let those idiots get to you," she said, her voice firm but kind.

You sighed. "It's hard not to. They think I'm the reason we're losing."

She nudged you with her shoulder. "We win as a team, and we lose as a team. You're not alone in this."

But you felt alone. You hadn't been called up to international duty, so during the break, you were going to do anything and everything to get better. While most of your teammates left to represent their countries or take a well-deserved rest, you stayed behind. You had something to prove, not just to the fans and the team, but to yourself. You went to extremes, cutting down food intake, going to the gym more often, training far more than anyone else. It was dangerous, but you were convinced it would make you better.

Your diet became increasingly restrictive. You counted every calorie, measured every portion, convinced that shedding a few pounds would make you faster, more agile. You pushed yourself to the limit in the gym, lifting heavier weights, running longer distances. Training sessions became grueling marathons of self-imposed drills and exercises. The world outside the training ground became a distant memory; you were consumed by the need to improve.

One evening, you were alone in the gym, drenched in sweat and gasping for breath after a particularly intense session. Sophie walked in. She watched you for a moment, concern etched on her face.

She had watched you closely, her concern growing as she saw the changes in you. You were leaner, yes, but also gaunt and tired. Your performances in training were erratic; moments of brilliance followed by periods of exhaustion.

"Hey," she called out. "What are you still doing here? It's late."

You straightened up, forcing a smile. "Just getting in some extra work. Gotta stay sharp, you know?"

She frowned. "You've been here every night this week. Are you sure you're not overdoing it?"

"I'm fine," you lied. "Just dedicated."

She didn't look convinced, but she didn't press the issue. "Alright. Just...take care of yourself, okay?"

You nodded, and she left. But her words lingered. Deep down, you knew she was right. But the fear of failure, the fear of letting everyone down, drove you to keep pushing.

When the games started again, you were definitely stronger. You were finally putting in good performances, and for the first time, you felt a glimmer of hope. It reinforced your sick ideas. You thought the extreme measures were working, so you pushed even harder. You went to such extremes that your body couldn’t sustain itself.

The day you collapsed on the field was seared into your memory with painful clarity. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, the kind that made the stadium lights sparkle with an almost magical quality. The crowd was buzzing with anticipation, their energy a palpable force as they cheered and chanted. You felt a mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through your veins. Today, you thought, you would prove everyone wrong.

The game started with a blistering pace. You felt strong, your movements fluid and precise. You were everywhere on the pitch, intercepting passes, making crucial tackles, and threading perfect through balls to your teammates. The crowd roared with approval every time you touched the ball, and for a while, it felt like everything was falling into place.

But as the game wore on, a strange sensation began to creep over you. It started as a slight dizziness, a feeling you tried to shake off. You pressed harder, ignoring the warning signs. You sprinted back to help in defense, your vision blurring slightly as you tracked the opposing forward. You managed to intercept the ball and sent it forward with a powerful kick, but as you did, your legs felt like they were made of lead.

The second half began, and the intensity only increased. The fans were on their feet, the noise in the stadium reaching a fever pitch. You felt a surge of adrenaline and pushed yourself even harder, determined to make an impact. But with each passing minute, the dizziness grew worse. Your muscles screamed in protest, your lungs burning as you struggled to catch your breath.

Then it happened. One moment, you were sprinting down the wing, the next, the world tilted and spun. You stumbled, your legs giving out beneath you. The ground rushed up to meet you, and you hit the turf hard. The noise of the stadium faded into a distant hum, and darkness crept in at the edges of your vision.

The next thing you knew, you were lying on the grass, staring up at the sky. The game had stopped, players from both teams gathering around you, their faces masks of concern. Sophie was there, her voice urgent but calm. "Hey, can you hear me? Are you okay?"

You tried to respond, but your body felt heavy, unresponsive. The medics arrived, lifting you onto a stretcher, the world around you a blur of noise and color. You could see the worry etched on Sophie's face, her hand squeezing yours reassuringly. "You're going to be okay."

In the hospital, you were surrounded by doctors and nurses, their voices a jumble of medical jargon. Sophie stayed by your side, refusing to leave. When the doctors finally left, she pulled up a chair and sat beside you, her eyes filled with worry.

"You scared us out there," she said softly. "What were you thinking, pushing yourself so hard?"

Tears welled up in your eyes. "I just...I wanted to be good enough. I didn't want to let everyone down."

She took your hand, her grip firm and steady. "You don't have to do this alone. We're a team, remember? We look out for each other. You need to take care of yourself, first and foremost."

You nodded, the reality of your situation sinking in.

The next few days were a blur of medical tests and recovery plans. The doctors confirmed what Sophie had suspected: you were severely malnourished and overtrained. Your body had been pushed to its breaking point. The news hit you hard, but it also brought a sense of clarity. You realized just how far you had gone in your quest for perfection and how much it had cost you.

One evening, as you were lying in your hospital bed, Sophie came to visit. She brought a small potted plant, placing it on the windowsill. "A little greenery to brighten up the room," she said with a smile.

You managed a weak smile in return. "Thanks, Soph. For everything."

She sat down beside you, her expression serious. "Listen, I know you've been through a lot, but you have to understand that pushing yourself to the brink like this isn't the answer. You have to find balance."

"I know," you said, your voice barely above a whisper. "I just wanted to be the best."

She reached out, placing a hand on your arm. "You are the best. But being the best doesn't mean destroying yourself. It means taking care of yourself, so you can be there for your team, for the fans, and most importantly, for yourself."

Her words resonated deeply, and you felt a weight lift off your shoulders. For the first time in a long while, you felt like you could breathe again.

[cistematicchaos]

Y’all DO know self-harm is included in body positivity/neutrality, right? You should not be shaming people for self-harming OR having self-harm scars, much less shaming them for their scars being visible. 

It’s not “setting a bad example” or “encouraging” self-harm to not be an ass about it. That’s literally in the basis of body positivity/neutrality. 

[rationed-passion]

Supervised Masturbation

We know a number of you are interested in the concept of being supervised doing your little habit. Lace and Ginger sat down to take a frank look at why it's often necessary and answer your questions about the practice.

What is supervised masturbation?

Recognising that disrespectful thoughts and images may be used during solo masturbation, you - the subject - agrees that someone else will be present at each and every moment that you pleasure yourself. Let that sink in: you will have a responsible adult overseeing all your wanking for the immediate future.

I've been told I may need it. Why?

You have probably shown a propensity to use non-fully clothed images or otherwise disrespectful materials when masturbating. Or you might have shown boorish, misogynistic attitudes in your conversations. It's important not to over analyse the why, but look at what positive things you can take from this oversight by a more responsible adult.

I'm really embarrassed that I have to be supervised.

That's perfectly understandable. And the subject is encouraged to show regret for any actions that have led to this sanction. A little embarrassment will do you no harm. But it's also important to realise that being supervised has proven to be a very reliable way of conditioning the subject into fully clothed denial.

Who will supervise me?

Given the intimate nature of the act we recommend you ask your significant other to supervise you.

What will happen during a supervised masturbation session?

The lady* concerned will be in the room with you, fully clothed and sitting or standing a short distance from your naked self. You will be encouraged to get comfortable and have your respectful materials to hand (photographs, magazines or computing device) and select the imagery you will be pleasuring to. This will be vetted by your supervisor and providing it is appropriate you will then be encouraged to do your thing. Conversation is fine but we generally advise against doing too much talking. As she deems necessary, the supervisor may remind the subject what they should focus on and why they are in this situation. [*the supervisor can, of course be male, non-binary or other genders. It's just we're all ladies here]

How long will I have to be supervised for my self-pleasure?

A post-orgasm conversation is encouraged, where you should share your thoughts, concerns and any future sexual aspirations. How long supervision is necessary will be at the absolute discretion of the supervising lady. Though she will likely take your opinions into consideration, her judgement is final.

How can I get somebody to supervise me? Can you ladies supervise me?

As we said earlier, we strongly recommend you get your significant other to supervise you. If you are currently single we suggest using your imagination (always a fertile ground) envisaging perhaps one of our staff as your virtual supervisor. Please understand though, we do not provide actual supervision either through asks, chat or any other forum.

I find the whole idea a massive turn-on. Is that normal?

Well it's not really normal is it? But who wants to be normal? You're already a very special individual for wanting to be put into fully clothed denial. It's hardly surprising you're now getting excited at the prospect of this further intrusion into your most private act. But we suspect if you've read this far you are pretty much committed, and we hope you'll be very happy in your newly Rationed Passion.

[sophieinwonderland]

That moment a TERF shows up in the Syscourse tag...

I think I need ayahuasca to recover from seeing their blog.

First, just A+ response there from @rainnthefrog!

Just love how they completely shut that down!

When the people banning drag queens (who have never harmed in children in these schools) from performing at schools are encouraging guns to be brought in, you should heavily question how committed people are to the safety of children.

As for @femaledracula, there is so much wrong with this. First, again, zero incidents of drag queens preying on children. It's not a thing. You're talking about a problem that doesn't exist. Second, how do drag queens performing in schools have power over students?

Teachers are in a position of authority. Religious leaders are in a position of authority. Drag queens in schools just... are there. They're just an adult who happens to be present. And if this hypothetical problem were so important, why not take issue with every instance of guest performers and speakers? A police officer or fireman speaking at a school will be seen as more of an authority figure over students than dancers.

Wait... it's the transphobia and homophobia, isn't it? That makes sense.

Oh, and did I mention the sheer audacity of comparing LGBT people to the Catholic Church?

The next post wasn't on femaledracula's blog, but was another reblog of the OP from @aftonfamilyvalues. And I just absolutely love @benkybot's take on the whole dumpsterfire of a post.

🏆

Thank you!

And finally, as a tulpa, this especially caught my eye.

No. We're not our bodies. We're our consciousness. Our bodies are vessels our emergent consciousnesses ride around in. An amputee doesn't cease to be themselves because they lost their leg. A blind person doesn't cease being themselves because they lost their eyes.

Seeing your body as your whole self can be an extremely unhealthy outlook, especially when it comes to beauty standards and their affect on people's self-esteem.

I realize this is primarily about transness, but the mentality @talktomydoctorate is pushing is something that is also incredibly dangerous to the plural community where multiple people share a single body.

With that in mind, I'd like to take a moment to spout off a bunch of stuff to scare some TERFs! 😁

Let me start with an introduction! Hi, I'm Sophie, a cis girl tulpa riding around in an AMAB body!

Our tulpamancy practices can reliably make people of the opposite gender inside people's brains!

Tulpamancy, over time, is generally regarded as functionally irreversible, with one psychiatry professor likening getting rid of a well-developed tulpa to trying to will yourself to forget how to read.

Every new tulpamancer who creates an opposite-gendered headmate will be a brand new non-binary/genderfluid system in the world.

And tulpamancers tend to be creative people. I know many who are interested in animation and writing, where we can influence pop culture for future generations. Others are studying to be psychologists and psychiatrists where they can be influential in other ways.

And the best part is that there's really nothing you can do to stop it. 🤷‍♀️

Please, chew on that for a while.

And stay out of system tags. You and your kind aren't welcome here.

[flyingpurplepeopleprogrammer]

I can't really stress enough that, well - you and me?

<disco> We're animals, baby. </disco>

All of us are, really, and if you're looking to interact with any kind of animal you would do very, very well to learn about animal training. I'll probably write about this in a more general sense in the future, but for today, let's specifically talk about Touch Training:

Usually, one of the first things you do when training an animal - any animal - is acclimate it to its handler's touch. A properly touch-trained animal should be perfectly comfortable being manipulated by its handler and makes a whole host of training and care tasks both easier for the trainer and less stressful for the animal being trained.

To give an example, imagine an animal has sustained a minor injury - a dog picked up a thorn, say. Even a friendly and tame animal won't often want to be picked up and physically handled while it's in pain. It may resist being handled or even - at no fault of its own - bite or scratch in a bid to protect itself. Taking the time to touch train your pet will make sure that you can borrow its paw, pluck the thorn, and treat it's wound without risking further harm to yourself or the poor animal. Because the animal is used to being handled - because it trusts you - what would normally be a stressful experience becomes a comforting one.

The usual method for touch training is to consistently and gently manipulate the animal in the presence of positive stimuli. Sometimes, touching isn't an option to start with and you need to start with just being allowed near or around your subject. A good way to start this process is to be around the animal to provide it something positive that it needs, like food when it's hungry or warmth when it's cold. Over time, you can move from sitting near to lightly touching, and so on.

In the longer term, you should be able to systematically manipulate every part of the animal's body as though you were inspecting it, rewarding the animal as needed to encourage submission to the procedure. The purpose here is to make sure that it is comfortable with all kinds of handling and that it positively associates being physically manipulated. Ideally, flopping over and offering itself to be touched should be a positive experience for the animal being trained.

Physical contact and affection are themselves positive stimuli for many creatures you might want to train as a pet or service animal. In addition to making the process of touch training easier, this has the pleasant side effect of making the training practically self-reinforcing. Routine activities such as grooming, cuddling, and play will reinforce the connection between the handler's touch and Good Things in the mind of the animal being trained and help form a bond between the animal and its handler. Just make sure that you don't unwittingly countertrain the behaviour, and it should persist without much effort.

Particular to humans, initial training can be made remarkably simpler by just explaining the process to a willing participant and encouraging active cooperation. Training tools like visualisation or roleplay can be used to train cognitive behaviours directly and can facilitate extremely rapid and robust training, with skilled handlers showing adequately touch-trained subjects in less than a day.

[rdng1230]

Ted Lasso Season 3 Spoilers

Ya'll this season is so off to me. there are definitely lovely moments but so many storylines contain things that are just so out of character? Look I want Nate to have his redemption arc as much as the next gal, but where is all of this self confidence and kindness coming from? He wants to apologize to Ted in the elevator and then he won't even wave to Henry at the match? I get it Rupert intimidates him, but then why the hell would he invite him to his attempt at the diamond dogs if he knows Rupert wouldn't support that kind of vulnerability? And I get it healing isn't linear and you're gonna have backslide-y moments, but I don't really get what motivated Nate to start becoming a kinder/less self hating person in the first place. He's been nothing but rewarded for shitty behavior at West Ham. He doesn't seem to even be that sorry about what he did to Ted (and lets be real the entire team, that sign meant a hell of a lot to them). I just don't get it. It seems like he'd make that journey through love and encouragement of a supporting environment or to resist against a super toxic one, and Nate is somehow doing neither? Like how is he doing all this work without either a) recognizing Ruperts way of doing things is highly toxic and making a choice to not be like him b) Realizing that his own actions were very harmful and try to make amends c) receiving some other form of support that's helping him learn actual self love. And at least on screen none of those things have happened.

Then there's the whole thing with Jade, Who is this woman? It seems like we know nothing about her besides that she works for Taste of Athens and she doesn't care for Nate and suddenly one comment in defense of her workplace and she's his girlfriend? Suddenly she's swinging back and forth like a pendulum between that same cold aloofness as before and extreme warmth and understanding? I get that Nate has changed and that can be alluring, but I don't think we know enough about her to make that character development meaningful for *her* and not just for him. She is the only character I can think of that just feels like someone else's partner and not her own person. I'm not saying I need a whole Jade backstory, but she just doesn't even seem like a whole character. What is motivating her to go out with Nate all of a sudden? It's that question that makes that huge step forward for Nate feel hollow.

Then there's all these characters who I cannot figure out what their thematic value is. Shandy? She was introduced as this smart (if rough around the edges) friend of Keeley's and she turns out to be just a total psycho. For what purpose? what did Keeley learn? what did Shandy represent? To just not trust people? To not give people chances? Why spend so much time on that character just to tell a story that is just so not like this show. I do kinda get the point of Zava, you can't just win on one guys coattails, you have to learn to be a team, even though I think that story could've been way shorter. Then there's Jack, we're supposed to believe Keeley just doesn't know who gave her the money to start her business and then after finding out begins a relationship with that person? Especially this episode 8 there were so many moments where I was like Keeley for the love of god break up with this woman and then she just doesn't, despite Jack being so so so awful to her. It seems like we're giving Keeley so much more airtime just to tell the audience she's actually very incompetent, unconfident, and oblivious, despite the fact that the show has been telling us she's the exact opposite for two seasons. What is the fucking reason?

Even Ted has just been drifting for forever. I thought episode 6 was a turning point and he really got back into coaching, but now he's skipping practice and dinners with his son in order to stalk Michelle? What? I'd understand that behavior from season 1 or 2 Ted but Jesus we've got four episodes to clean all these storylines up and so far they've done nothing but create questions.

I just remember the first two seasons I felt like we were solving problems along the way, or at least laying the foundations for whatever growth needed to be done and I feel like we're 8 episodes in and the only direction we've moved is backward.

Like I said I still love this show, I loved the Amsterdam episode, I loved finally getting to meet Sam's dad in person, I love all of Jamie's amazing moments this season, I love that Bex is getting her little barbs in at Rupert, I love Beard and Henry's Hey Jude scene, I love Colin and Trent in Amsterdam (actually went to the homomonument yesterday because damn I love that scene so much, and my mom lives nearby) but they are not crafting this show the way they used to, and that makes me sad.

[arungandhi]

Overcoming Challenges in PTE Coaching: Common Hurdles and Solutions

Introduction: For numerous individuals whose are interested in demonstrating they can communicate in English proficiently, the preparation for the Pearson Test of English (PTE) can be an exhausting process. Whereas PTE coaching is capable of providing important information and support, test takers are frequently up contrary to an abundance of challenges along their chosen path. In the following paragraphs, we're going to discuss some of the usual obstacles experienced whenever directing contaminants and recommend solutions that are practical.

Successful Time Management During PTE coaching, one of the main problems test takers confront is appropriate control of time. Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening constitute the four subject areas that constitute composed the PTE exam. Each section having its own set of responsibilities and time constraints. Many students find it difficult to properly organize their time correctly, which ends up in quick and incomplete approaches.

Solution: Establishing a time control strategy that includes note of your benefits and drawbacks is crucial for conquering the issue at hand. Before you start with, educate yourself with the arrangement of every segment and the agreed-upon duration for every assignment.

Regularly practice timed actions for improving your rate and confidence in finishing assignments within the stipulated period of time. You must additionally think regarding obtaining advice from professional PTE coaches who could provide you particular recommendations as well as strategies to improve your time skills in time management.

Language Competence Obtaining an adequate certificate of language proficiency is another typical challenge in PTE coaching. Speaking, writing, reading, and listening being merely some english the language skills that have been assessed at an academic level during the PTE exam. Test takers whom do not consider themselves native English speakers might encounter it difficult to comprehend the vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, or comprehending.

Solution: Practice and ongoing dedication are the only ways for increasing language proficiency. Participate in a comprehensive PTE coaching program that provides workouts that are structured that tackle each component of the English language. To enhance your learning, add additional resources to your studies, such as practice materials, language apps, and online courses. Regularly practice speaking and listening in English through interacting with conversations with native speakers, enjoying English-language films or television series with each other, or checking in to podcasts. To continue to keep yourself motivated and focused on developing your language skills, set achievable objectives for yourself and measure how you are progressing over time.

Anxiety throughout assessments Test anxiety is a prevalent problem that may drastically impact the performance of a candidate succeeds on the actual examination as well as during PTE classroom instruction. Concentration, memory recall, and trust in oneself may become harmed from worry, fear of falling short, and pressure to do well.

Solution: In order to minimize test anxiety as well as improve your exam-taking experience, you might consider an assortment effective approaches. To comfort your attention and minimize your stress levels, employ deep breathing, meditation, or visualization activities. To maintain your physical and mental health, create a regular academic routine while also making self-care activities include exercise, proper nutrition, and a sufficient amount of sleep the utmost importance.In addition, attempt to obtain guidance from peers, mentors, or licensed psychotherapists who might give perspective, encouragement, and moral support during challenging periods.

Inadequate Suggestions and Criticism A frequent grievance between test takers being lack of tailored guidance and feedback across their PTE coaching journey. It could turn out challenging to recognize areas of contention and measure advancement without specific instructions and appropriate comments.

Solution: Chose a PTE coaching program which attaches significant emphasis on individualized instruction and input. Check find competent coaches that will be able to analyze your advantages and drawbacks, offer helpful recommendations, as well as develop personalized strategies for enhancement. Indulge in individual or small-group instruction where administrators can provide yourself with specialized attention and recommendations.

Take advantage of practicing assessments and tests to locate your areas of weakness and direct your focus on particular skills which call for advancement. Additionally, search for online study groups, forums, or villages where you are able to communicate alongside other test-takers, discuss experiences, or obtain peer feedback. Receive PTE coaching to start out on an adventure towards transformation. Uncover personalized success approaches to overcome anxiety regarding exams as well as get language skills. Earn your target score and generate additional possibilities with a combination with knowledgeable guidance as well as concentrated support. Customize your PTE engagement instantaneously.

Conclusion: In order to triumph over barriers in PTE coaching, individuals has to remain devoted, persistent, and proactive in the pursuit of knowledge. Test takers may maximize their chances of passing the PTE exam by tackling common obstacles such test anxiety, ability to speak another language, time management, and a lack of feedback. Reaching your objective score can be accomplished assuming you're able to put appropriate techniques and support mechanisms in place.

[petsdogworld]

Introducing a furry companion into your life is a journey of pure joy, forming a bond that is bound to be treasured. Yet, in the midst of all the fun, lies the importance of basic obedience training. Beyond just commands, this training establishes a solid foundation of understanding and cooperation between you and your four-legged friend. In this extensive guide, we're going to delve even deeper into the essential commands every dog should know, exploring various techniques to train them effectively, empathetically, and with great success. Basic Obedience Training 1. Sit: Beyond a Simple Gesture "Sit" might seem like a basic command, but its significance is far-reaching. It's the stepping stone to other commands and behaviors and sets the tone for your dog's discipline. To train your dog to sit: 1. Attention Matters: Begin by holding a treat near their nose to capture their focus. 2. Guiding into Position: Gradually raise the treat, prompting them to raise their head and lower their rear. 3. Verbal Cue: Say "Sit" as they get into position. 4. Immediate Reward: As they sit, reward them promptly with the treat and praise. Over time, reduce treat frequency and increase verbal praise. 2. Stay: Cultivating Self-Control "Stay" might just be one word, but its impact on your dog's behavior is profound. Teaching your dog to stay put is about instilling self-control. To train your dog to stay: 1. Build from Sit: Begin with the basic "Sit" command. 2. Gesture of Restraint: Extend your open palm in their direction, signaling them to halt. 3. Step-by-Step Backing Off: Step back slowly while maintaining eye contact and say "Stay." 4. Gradual Progression: As your dog becomes proficient, increase the distance and duration before rewarding them. 3. Come: More Than Just a Recall The "Come" command is more than just a way to call your dog back to you. It's a tool of safety and connection and a very basic obedience training. To teach your dog to come when called: 1. The Joyful Approach: Use an enthusiastic tone when calling their name, followed by "Come." 2. Start with a Leash: Begin indoors or in a confined space with a long leash. 3. Gentle Guidance: While saying "Come," gently pull the leash to guide them towards you. 4. Rewards Galore: Upon arrival, shower them with treats, praise, and affection. 4. Down: Embracing Calmness The "Down" command is all about encouraging a calm disposition and discouraging unruly behavior. To teach your dog to lie down: 1. From Sit to Down: Begin with the "Sit" command. 2. Lowering the Treat: Gradually lower a treat to the ground in front of them. 3. Guiding the Transition: As they follow the treat's descent, their body naturally eases into a lying position. 4. Reward and Regular Practice: Issue the "Down" command and reward them. Practice across different settings to solidify the behavior. 5. Leave It: A Command for Safety "Leave It" can be a lifesaver, preventing your dog from grabbing dangerous items or consuming harmful substances. Teaching this command requires a patient approach: 1. The Tempting Distraction: Hold a treat in your hand and show it to your dog. 2. Firm Command: Say "Leave It" assertively. 3. Waiting for Compliance: Allow them time to stop focusing on the treat. 4. Swap for Success: As a reward, offer a different treat from your other hand. 6. Heel: Walking in Harmony "Heel" turns a walk into a harmonious activity, as your dog learns to walk alongside you. To teach your dog to walk harmoniously: 1. Opt for Comfort: Use a comfortable leash that doesn't restrict movement. 2. Initial Leash Walks: Start in a low-distraction environment. 3. Treat Motivation: Hold a treat close to your leg, encouraging them to walk beside you. 4. Consistency Pays Off: Reward them with treats and praise when they maintain the desired position. Conclusion Basic obedience training isn't just about teaching commands – it's about building a strong, lifelong connection with your canine companion.

The commands "Sit," "Stay," "Come," "Down," "Leave It," and "Heel" empower your dog to navigate the world effectively while enhancing the bond between both of you. The journey of training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. As you embark on this journey, remember that training is more than just imparting skills; it's about nurturing understanding, trust, and respect. By teaching these essential commands, you're setting the stage for a remarkable companionship where communication is seamless, behavior is exemplary, and love knows no bounds. Throughout the training process, be kind, be patient, and celebrate every achievement. The time and effort you invest in training will not only yield a well-behaved and responsive dog but also create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. https://petsdogworld.com/basic-obedience-training/?feed_id=1403&_unique_id=660db1fd0957c

[lunaprincipessa]

ENTRY 148

Eight Situations in Life Where the Best Response is Silence

1.) When emotions are running high.

Research has proven that emotional arousal impairs our ability to process info and make balanced decisions. Staying silent here allows us to observe, process, and get collected before responding, if responding.

2.) When you're not informed enough.

Opinions are not facts, and speaking without understanding brings no change or benefit. When discussing something important or controversial that tends to cause emotional arousal, the wisest thing to do is listen and observe if you're just not educated in the matter at hand.

3.) When your words may harm others.

We're human. We've all said things out of anger and frustration that we didn't mean. We are human but why not try to avoid it whenever possible? We don't want to leave our loved ones with emotional or mental scars from our words. Best to wait until the emotion subsides.

4.) When you need to listen.

You know that moment when you simply have to speak up for yourself and it feels important to you to be heard? The other person in the scenario feels the exact same way. Stay silent for them as they express themselves, just as you would expect them to be silent for you.

5.) When you're practicing mindfulness.

Sometimes, being fully present in the moment, engaging with the environment, or sorting through our thought processes requires silence. It paves the way for better comprehension and gaining insight.

6.) When silence itself is the answer.

Many different situations for many different reasons will require silence. "There's a time and a place for everything." If you get the feeling that you're in a situation that you may want to stay quiet in, follow it.

7.) When your words won't change anything.

If all the words in the dictionary are at your disposal yet you still can't get back what was lost, fix what was broken, right what was wronged, etc, then it may be best to stay silent for the time being and come up with a new plan or approach.

8.) When you need to speak up.

Don't stay silent all the way through when you need to speak up. Only at first to organize your thoughts and assess the best time and the best way to speak.

While we are on the subject! Here's a quick list of advantages in silence.

1.) Enhances listening and observation skills.

2.) Fosters self-awareness and mindfulness.

3.) Creates an aura of mystery and intrigue.

4.) Strengthens communication and influence.

5.) Encourages thoughtful decision-making.

More thoughts later.

[herespaaa]

Protect Your Locks: Tips to Prevent Hair Thinning from HereSpa At-Home Salon and Spa

Hair thinning can be a distressing issue, affecting both men and women of all ages. At HereSpa At-Home Salon and Spa, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy, voluminous locks. Let's explore some effective strategies to prevent hair thinning and promote optimal hair health.

Nourish Your Scalp : A healthy scalp is essential for promoting strong, resilient hair growth. Ensure you're providing your scalp with the nutrients it needs by incorporating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, consider using scalp treatments and massage techniques to stimulate blood flow and encourage hair follicle health.

Choose Gentle Hair Care Products : Harsh chemicals and frequent styling can contribute to hair thinning and breakage. Opt for gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners that nourish and strengthen your hair without stripping away its natural oils. Avoid over-processing your hair with heat styling tools and chemical treatments, and always use a heat protectant before styling.

Practice Proper Hair Care Techniques : Treat your hair with care to minimize damage and breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently remove knots and tangles, starting from the ends and working your way up. Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the hair follicles, and allow your hair to air dry whenever possible to reduce heat-related damage.

Protect Your Hair from the Sun : Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by prolonged sun exposure. Wear a hat or use UV-protective hair products when spending time outdoors to shield your locks from harmful UV rays. Additionally, consider using leave-in conditioners or serums with SPF to provide an extra layer of protection.

Manage Stress : Chronic stress can take a toll on your hair health, leading to increased shedding and thinning. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to promote relaxation and balance. Prioritize self-care activities that help you unwind and alleviate tension.

Regular Scalp Massages : Scalp massages can help improve circulation, reduce tension, and promote hair growth. Incorporate regular scalp massages into your hair care routine using nourishing oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil. Gently massage the oil into your scalp in circular motions, then leave it on for at least 30 minutes before shampooing.

Take Action to Preserve Your Hair's Health with HereSpa At-Home Salon and Spa

Don't wait until hair thinning becomes a concern. Take proactive steps to protect and nourish your locks with the expert guidance of HereSpa At-Home Salon and Spa. Whether you're seeking personalized hair care advice or luxurious treatments tailored to your needs, we're here to help you achieve vibrant, healthy hair.

Are you ready for healthier, fuller-looking hair? Book your appointment with HereSpa At-Home Salon and Spa today! Visit our website at www.herespa.com or give us a call at +1-234-437-3772 to schedule your consultation. Plus, remember that we offer convenient at-home salon and spa services, catering to clients of all ages, including senior citizens. Let us help you maintain the luscious locks you deserve!

[ertharetreat]

Body Scan Meditation: Deepening the Connection with Your Physical Self

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often find ourselves disconnected from our own bodies. The constant barrage of information, distractions, and stressors can lead to a sense of detachment from our physical selves. This disconnection can have adverse effects on our overall well-being, both mentally and physically. However, amidst this chaos, there exists a haven of tranquility: the meditation retreat. One powerful tool to bridge this gap and foster a deeper connection with our bodies is the practice of Body Scan Meditation.

Body Scan Meditation is a mindfulness technique that involves systematically directing your attention to different parts of your body, from head to toe, and cultivating awareness of the sensations, tension, and emotions residing within each region. It is a practice rooted in ancient mindfulness traditions, but it has gained popularity in recent years due to its profound therapeutic benefits.

The essence of Body Scan Meditation lies in its ability to ground us in the present moment. In our fast-paced lives, we often dwell on past regrets or worry about the future, neglecting the sensations and experiences of the here and now. By bringing our attention to the physical sensations within our body, we are compelled to live in the present. This can be a powerful antidote to anxiety and stress, as these emotions often stem from ruminating on past events or worrying about what's to come.

As you embark on a Body Scan Meditation, you start by finding a quiet, comfortable space where you can lie down or sit with your eyes closed. Begin by taking a few deep breaths to settle into your body and the present moment. Then, shift your focus to the top of your head and gradually move your attention down through your body, one part at a time. Pay close attention to any sensations you encounter – warmth, tension, tingling, or discomfort. The goal is not to change these sensations but simply to observe them without judgment.

One of the profound benefits of Body Scan Meditation is its ability to reveal the interconnectedness of our physical and mental states. You may notice that as you scan your body, you uncover hidden sources of tension or discomfort that you weren't even aware of before. This tension can often be a manifestation of emotional or psychological stress. By bringing awareness to these physical sensations, you can begin to address and release the underlying emotional issues that may be contributing to your physical discomfort.

Moreover, the practice of Body Scan Meditation can be a valuable tool for managing chronic pain or physical ailments. When we're disconnected from our bodies, we tend to ignore or suppress the signals of pain or discomfort. Through the body scan, we can learn to acknowledge and be present with these sensations, which can lead to a better understanding of their causes and more effective ways to manage them.

The benefits of Body Scan Meditation extend beyond the physical realm. As you deepen your connection with your physical self, you may also find an increased sense of self-compassion and self-acceptance. Many of us carry judgments and negative beliefs about our bodies, often fueled by societal pressures and unrealistic standards of beauty. Body Scan Meditation can be a path to unearthing these harmful beliefs and replacing them with a more loving and accepting relationship with your body.

In conclusion, Body Scan Meditation is a powerful practice that can help us deepen our connection with our physical selves, bringing us into the present moment, uncovering hidden tensions, and fostering self-compassion. In a world that often encourages us to disconnect from our bodies, this practice offers a path back to ourselves, promoting overall well-being and a profound sense of wholeness. Whether you are seeking relief from stress, pain management, or a more profound understanding of your body and mind, Body Scan Meditation is a practice worth exploring.

[zorkaya-moved]

❛ i guess i'm scared that i don't have what it takes to not fuck this up. ❜ / from karlach!

@gatebounds

It's adorable to witness. Karlach is such a tender heart for being one from Avernus, serving Zariel. The devil is not unknown to the Astral Elf who keeps hiding her true nature, her true self, her history. Tieflings, Illithids, and so many more were known. Divine energy of the Moon runs through her veins, power surges but it's the opposite in sensations compared to Karlach's. The heart of the warrior sings with flames and passion while the Astral Elf's one seeps like cold touch, sucking warmth out and freezing everything it touches. And while flame feared to conquer and harm, frigid winter was apathetic to others' shudders.

"It's hard to work in a team, isn't it?" Zarina leans back against the tree, watching the other's panic and concern. Golden eyes gleam in the sunlight, taking on a surprisingly warm tone against her internal world. It almost makes her look kind and understanding, witnessing the fighter of Zariel struggle with decision making that won't cause harm to those around them. "Concerns over others' well-being, fear of being seen as a monster, inability to rely only on yourself because if you're alone then you don't need to worry for others."

The silver-haired woman then pushes herself away from the tree, approaching Karlach in careful and cautious steps. They are light and elegant, akin to a well-practices dance. She may not have Karlach's or Lae'zel's strength but she bears talents different from them. It's what makes their team quite unique for today's outing. Quite a unique decision from Tav's side, surely. Then again, fire and ice do not mix well together. This may end up in a disaster after all.

"Your fear will be your undoing. Instead of thinking how you'll fuck it up, think about how you'll get to your destination," words are spoken with a depth of wisdom to them. Fear is a loud beast, ringing too loudly but she learned how to execute it. Karlach did not. And it's good. There's still a heart beating inside that chest of hers. A remarkable ability, she's far more resilient than she gives herself credit. "Karlach, dear, if you're concerned about your fuck ups, then what am I here for then? I like to keep my job done cleanly and I won't let your fear of messing up get in the way of my cleanest record."

A moment of silence while the woman looks over her nails, noting on what she wants to do with them when forests will be behind them.

"Shortly speaking, you should just do what you usually do and I'll adjust to your rhythm. The moment you let the fear take over, we're both fucked. Let's not dance with death today, alright?" It's encouraging but also too laid-back. There is no fear and no hesitation in her sharp words, not even a concern over what would happen if Karlach did fuck up or anything like that. There's difference between them and it's far larger than anyone could ever imagine. Fire and ice, kindness and mercilessness, concern and confidence. "You've got this. Simply tell yourself that. We don't have time to let fear take over us. We already have little worms in our heads to take time for fear."

[wovetherapy]

How Do We Learn to Love Ourselves? A Guide to Developing Self-Love

Developing self-love is no easy feat, especially in a society that profits off our insecurities. Unfortunately, many of us struggle with self-loathing and negative self-talk, often stemming from capitalism, oppression, societal pressures, and unrealistic beauty standards. The beauty, diet, and weight-loss industries have been sending us messages for decades that we’re not good enough the way we are, and self-improvement is only a quick purchase away. But what would happen if we truly loved and accepted ourselves exactly as we were?

In a society such as this one, self-love can feel like a radical concept. And it is! As mentioned by Sonya Renee Taylor in her book, The Body Is Not an Apology, “the most radical political act there is to love yourself, despite all the ways society has taught you not to. To love yourself fiercely and unapologetically is a radical act that shifts the very foundation of the status quo” (Taylor, 2018). Though self-love is radical, it’s not impossible, and there are many ways you can learn to develop and enhance it.

First and foremost, it’s important to address one of the biggest barriers to achieving self-love: negative body image. In today's world, we are bombarded with messages and images of what society deems an “ideal” body type—one that is both unrealistic and unattainable. We compare ourselves to these images and feel inadequate and ashamed. But our bodies are not objects to be judged or scrutinized. In The Body is Not an Apology, Taylor writes, "Our bodies are not wrong. They are not objects to be fixed" (Taylor, 2018). Our bodies are unique, beautiful, and deserving of love and respect, regardless of their size, shape, or ability.

With that in mind, one way to develop self-love is to challenge the standard of beauty and the idea that if we don’t meet the standard of beauty, our bodies are somehow wrong. In her book, Taylor encourages her readers to embrace their bodies, identities, and experiences to create a more just and compassionate world. She also reminds us to focus on our inner qualities and strengths rather than outward appearance. She writes, "Our worth is not in our bodies; it is in who we are as human beings" (Taylor, 2018). This means valuing ourselves for kindness, intelligence, creativity, and other positive qualities rather than our physical attributes.

Another way to develop self-love is to practice self-compassion. Self-compassion involves treating ourselves with the same kindness, care, and understanding that we would offer to a dear friend. It also means accepting our flaws and imperfections and recognizing that they are a natural part of being human. According to Taylor, when we treat ourselves compassionately, we are less likely to judge ourselves harshly, engage in negative self-talk, and engage in harmful behaviors (Taylor, 2018).

Practicing gratitude is another way to develop self-love. When we focus on the things we're grateful for, we shift our attention away from what we don't have or wish to change about ourselves. This can include gratitude for our health, abilities, and the experiences our bodies allow us to have. Ultimately, gratitude shifts the focus from what our bodies lack to what they provide (Taylor, 2018).

Finally, surrounding ourselves with positive influences and cultivating connections can help us develop self-love. This means spending time with people who love and accept us for who we are rather than those who constantly criticize or judge us. As mentioned by Taylor, “we cannot love ourselves in isolation. We need connection, community, and support to thrive” (Taylor, 2018). When we feel connected and supported, we are more likely to love ourselves and make positive life changes.

Developing self-love is a radical act of resistance against the forces of shame, oppression, and isolation. By embracing our bodies, practicing self-compassion, engaging in gratitude, and cultivating connection and community, we can create a more just and compassionate world for ourselves and others. What are your thoughts? How have you learned to love yourself?

If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or you’d like more information, please contact us.

[hugohugo294]

Unresolved racial tension and trauma affect everyone. Here's How to Handle It

Any traumatic event that involves race and causes emotional distress is considered to be race-based traumatic stress. It is ongoing, recurring, and cumulative. Right now, we're witnessing the culmination of a long history of racialized brutality, violence, injustice, and insensitivity. It affects those who witness it and hear about it as well as those who are directly affected. Secondary trauma can be as harmful as second hand smoke.

How can a yoga therapist help those who are dealing with the psychological effects of racial discrimination? And why specifically restorative yoga?

Yoga Wuerzburg is in a prime position to advance our understanding of therapeutic interventions that encourage healthy lifestyle habits. Online Yoga Courses gave you best yoga trainings .People who are exposed to the harmful effects of ethnic and race-based stress and trauma require self-care practises that support rest, rejuvenation, and recovery. Such practises can build the skills that help people effectively manage the stress and trauma caused by these factors.

Restorative yoga (and meditation, which is part of yogic practise) provides opportunities to intentionally step away from repeated experiences of ethnic and racial wounding while building nervous system resilience. This resilience is necessary in order to develop useful coping strategies that will ultimately lead to a reduction in stress and recovery from traumatic experiences. yoga Wuerzburg gave you best yoga tips . According to research, mindfulness meditation practises should be adapted to be racially, ethnically, and culturally relevant to the populations served; restorative yoga practises should follow suit.

On the topic of normalising difficult emotions

Being in a state of shock or anger is distinct from being in a state in which one is overcome with extreme anxiety or despair and is unable to pull themselves out of the state. We are shocked because these events are shocking, and we are angry because they provoke anger. All of these feelings are normal. However, when your nervous system becomes overloaded to the point where it cannot process or digest what is happening, you are approaching trauma.

Restorative Yoga's Advantages

When your nervous system is toned, regulated, and balanced, you can switch between an activated nervous system (fight or flight) and a calm nervous system (rest and digest) as needed. There are times when we need to mobilise and times when we need to be still.

Restorative yoga tones and balances your nervous system, giving you the flexibility and discernment you need to know when to act and when to do nothing. When your nervous system is balanced, you are better able to navigate stressful and traumatic events without acting rashly, freezing, or falling apart. If you need any help about yoga then just join Online Yoga Courses they will benefit you a lot .

How to Practice Emotional Self-Care

Turn off all media, including social media, television, podcasts, and radio. You must rest your nervous system. Rest to allow your body to heal. It's exhausting to live in a culture that has normalised violence. You must compensate for the energy expended in dealing with stress. If you don't, you'll become overwhelmed and overloaded, and your system won't be able to do the necessary processing to recover. Listen to your body, attend to your needs, and prioritise your health and well-being. Above all else, make it a priority to surround yourself with supportive communities and loving relationships.

For More Information : Yoga festival

[strawberrybabydog]

look at these carrds

https://dainfo.carrd.co/#one

https://delusionalattachments.carrd.co/#

ok long post time. but basically both of these are full of misinfo. the first one isn't terrible and i agree on some opinions. the second one though is just.... wow that was a lot to read and most of it is inaccurate and harmful.

first thread:

it's got some incorrect info on it: delusions arent Fake and shouldn't be treated that way

it's not very nice to talk about delusional people as if we're stupid or can't decide things for ourselves. i dont think this is intentional though

it's typically not good to encourage a delusion, but it really depends on the individual. for example, encouraging my dog delusion literally does nothing. it's not right to make a blanket statement that you should never ever under any circumstance interact with someone's delusions positively.

huge agree that D/A community just gatekeeps fictionkinity & is causing huge harm to the psychotic community though. HUGE agree.

conclusion: their heart is in the right place, but they're not quite getting to where they want to be with this. /gen

second thread:

also has inaccurate information lol. like so much:

it's not fair to say that these types of delusions are incredibly harmful, because they're not. delusions technically are inherently harmful, but there's a fuck ton of nuance to this and it's just not fair to act like "having a DA" is this life-ruining thing for everyone, when it's not. for some people, sure, but not for everyone.

"This is a large different between believing your an object of a D/A and knowing you aren't a D/A and acknowledging it in a healthy way." um.... no. when you have a DMS of the self, you either are... or arent. there is no i am half this thing, i relate to this thing, i like this thing. there is i am not always this thing, but that's because delusions fluctuate.

they stress really hard through this thread that D/As are kind of this life-ruining thing, and then at the end say that "reality checking isn't ableist" which is weird because... it's not really, but the way they say it implies that it's something you should be constantly doing to yourself/others. and hey! no! do not reality check yourself or other people, ever, even if they ask you to; this is not even a "dont do it if you're not a professional" cuz guess what? professionals don't do it either. that's NOT how you treat delusions or delusional people. just don't do it. i say this all the time, but when talking to a delusional person about their delusions, remain completely neutral.

they say at the end that "psychosis is more than just D/As" and yes because this type of delusion makes up an extremely small percent of people who live with psychosis. i think what they mean is psychosis is more than delusions, but i dont think they even know this themselves considering how much they use "psychosis" and "delusional" interchangeably through this thread.... If you're going to a psychosis professional to treat your delusions (which is something they recommend,) you will be very disappointed.

the end slide states that all of this is based off of information that they know themselves because they're professional diagnosed, studying psychology and also things they've asked multiple psychiatrists. i don't doubt that this is true, but almost all of the information here is inaccurate and really harmful if they/other people who've read this are actually putting it into practice. psychology is a huge field so them studying it really says nothing, and im pretty sure you’re not allowed to study things like this professionally (like in university) if you’re diagnosed as psychotic; and if you did that’s insanely unethical and also a horrible idea. psychiatrists often dont tell you much when they diagnose you with something, and most psychiatrists don't specialize in delusions either so their knowledge about them is extremely limited and probably very outdated.

conclusion: this person isn't lying on purpose or intentionally being harmful, but this information is not correct and could harm delusional people a lot.

[rosemary-is-in-pesterquest]

ooh! I have thoughts on Eridan!

okay so, to me, Eridan ties into this thing that homestuck has going on with a lot of its more morally grey characters... the question of how responsible young people are for their negative qualities and actions, and where the age threshold for personal responsibility is.

the characters in homestuck all straddle this line between being young enough to consider them victims of the forces that influence them, while also old enough to understand what they're doing and how it affects others... especially because a lot of these kids come off as really smart for their age, and very precocious. we've all been through phases in our lives that make us cringe, not because we're ashamed of something harmless, but because we recognize that we had absorbed something harmful, and took longer than we wish we had to unlearn it. it could be as simple as being kind of a jerk in a misguided attempt to seem cool, or as dramatic as actually hurting someone in an attempt to remedy one's own insecurities by putting down others to seem better by comparison... but how far can you push that before people aren't willing to forgive? before people abandon the notion that better guidance and more appropriate role models could reform someone? and it's especially interesting when you consider how old homestuck's core audience might've been when they first encountered this story, and how it affected their perception of the characters if they saw them as peers, rather than as children from an adult's perspective.

so to talk about Eridan, I wanna frame this in terms of his classpect, because it actually goes a long way towards contextualizing his behavior. Eridan is a prince of hope, meaning that he destroys hope or uses hope to destroy... and this can be seen in practically every conversation he has. if Eridan is contacting someone, it is because he expects something of them. advice, or consolation, or a solution to a problem he's having... it's always something. when he contacts Kanaya, he wants her to auspistize between him and Vriska. when he contacts Feferi, he wants her to give him encouragement, and maybe date him when he asks. and in every case, the way he demands these things by being rude, whiny, or self pitying, makes people reluctant or unwilling to give him what he expects. he destroys what he hopes to obtain.

it goes deeper than that though. Eridan has absorbed this ideology of sea dweller superiority from living on Alternia... and he actually takes it way farther than it even makes sense to. the aristocracy on Alternia use the lower class for all sorts of menial work that they feel entitled not to have to do themselves. they might have the ability to freely cull individual low bloods for any reason, but eradicating all land dwelling trolls would leave a lot of unpleasant yet necessary tasks with no one to do them. I don't think Eridan actually wants to live in a reality where sea dwellers have to pick up the slack of doing things like sanitation work, or construction or something... but another concept that is heavily tied to the hope aspect is delusion. Eridan is exaggerating. he's trying to agree with Alternia's ruthless class structure so hard that it's actually kind of absurd. but Feferi calls him on that... she says she thinks that he self sabotages on purpose. because he knows, at least in some capacity, that the consequences of getting what he "wants" would actually be really uncomfortable to live with.

so not only is Eridan's goal to destroy... it is also a false goal that he constantly undermines. and all of his waffling between grandstanding and self pity destroys his romantic prospects, which are what he actually seems to want the most.

if you look at the way Eridan pursues relationships, he actually makes a lot of logical sense, but not a lot of emotional sense. he's idealized the act of perfectly filling the relationship requirements of each quadrant. he wants Feferi to be his matesprit, which is purely based on the fact that she's high enough on the hemospectrum to be an appropriate match in terms of status. he wants Vriska to be his kismesis, and Kanaya to be their auspistice, and there are hints that Karkat might've been someone he was considering for moiraillegience, though it wasn't emphasized as much. and there you go! his goal is specific, but it's based more on ideals than on the actual needs and feelings of the people involved, and it's totally self centered... he always wants them to cater to his own needs. the reason why he gets as nihilistic as he does on the meteor, is because all of his endeavors to achieve these relationships are falling through. he feels like he has no hope of mending his existing connections, because he still only sees them in terms of people either giving him, or not giving him, what he wants. but the rest of their race is dead. as the last twelve trolls in existence, they only have each other as romantic options. and as Eridan gets more and more desperate, he gets more and more demanding, which is the exact quality that drives everyone away from him to begin with, and it culminates in him having a "if I can't have what I want then nobody can have any of their hopes either" meltdown.

to backtrack a bit, I wanna reconsider questions such as, when is a kid old enough to be held responsible for their own negative qualities? like... when are you comfortable with ceasing to blame environmental factors? when are they just a bad person? is it after they've refused a certain number of chances to make better choices? when do they reach an age, or level of bad behavior, that makes you think they can't be helped to reform from these negative qualities? where does an adult lose their patience for the idea that a kid is just a victim of their upbringing?

obviously Feferi is Eridan's peer, but these are basically the questions she grapples with when she talks to Eridan. it's like growing up next door to a kid whose parents have some aggressively wrong-headed political stances. as you grow, that kid might mirror their parents' way of thinking... and by the time the two of you are in your teens, it's hard to ignore how much of a jerk that kid is becoming. but you've seen them at every step of their development. you know where it comes from. maybe theirs is the dominant political belief in the community, even if your own parents aren't like that. maybe you wonder if you would've agreed with them if you grew up under their circumstances. you've felt the pressure, but you haven't lived in it like they have, and maybe if they just had the chance to grow up under different conditions, they wouldn't be this way. and you are aware that you could be an influence on them... maybe they need you to help them see another perspective. you always got along so well as kids. when did things even change? and that's kind of where I imagine Feferi is at when we're introduced to her and Eridan. it's a crossroads between believing that you might still matter enough to them to change their outlook, and the persistence of their ingrained beliefs. it's tiring to do that kind of work, over a long period of time, to minimal results. when is the appropriate time to give up? in this way, Feferi's own hopes for Eridan fade over time. she says at one point that she was mainly acting as his moirail so he wouldn't try to underfeed her lusus and kill the land dwellers that way. she's not sure how serious he is, and she can't take that risk. deep down, I'm pretty sure Eridan knew he was never actually going to commit a genocide... but his need to grandstand, and legitimate belief in his caste superiority, had convinced Feferi enough that she still felt obligated to manage him as though he was a real threat.

these characters are thirteen years old. they're right at the edge of childhood and adolescence... right at the age where children aren't quite so innocent. they want to assert themselves. they aren't mature, so there's a lot of responsibility that they still shouldn't be trusted with yet, but they've become aware enough to feel like that's demeaning, and to want to be taken seriously. in an effort to make people acknowledge them without looking down on them, they'll try just about anything. they don't have the experience to know what they're doing yet, so it doesn't always work in their favor, and that's frustrating. you can see bits and pieces of this in homestuck's characters. like with the way they try to paint themselves as an authority on something, or shit talk each other in order to emphasize their own strengths. it's a really interesting theme, because homestuck pushes some of these young characters really far in terms of how bad the things they've done can be, or how much their lived experiences have taught them that what they're doing is acceptable. they can be really self aware in some ways, and come off as really childish in others. it's hard to know what you'd do about them in real life... and your answer changes depending on your own age and perspective. it's a really cool gray area to poke around in, and homestuck is excellent at it.

wtf I like Eridan now