Ink...cutting trigger warning

For years I fought to release the pain in my soul. Tried counseling, stuffing it, exercise but nothing fully released it. I mentioned I used to cut. This was a sure fire way to release my pain. Not healthy! I wanted to be heathy for my daughter. 

 

I found that tattooing gave the same release but instead of leaving scars, left art behind. (Yes, I know what the bible says abt adornment etc). 

Over time I have accumulated some pieces I love and have great meaning to me! Kanji that say love and strength (got to remind me that love does not hurt others, when I left an abusive relationship). A beautiful lotus (beauty through tribulation) kanji representing me (mother,daughter, beauty and friendship), an anklet in progress for my kids and my favorite verse paired with homage to my childhood favorite movie the secret of nihm that I was lucky enough to get with a dear friend!

I have plans for future healing:) a peacock of some sort and orion with his nebula. The cleansing is amazing and the peace following is beyond compare. I enjoy the art and im happy to be no longer cutting. 

I want my kids to feel safe and see there are many ways to live life and be healthy.

Beloveds, How do you heal? How do you release the pain? Pain of loss of heartache of life??