A Summer Survival Guide for Women Healing After Abuse

Last week I took my first solo holiday as a single mum - just me, my toddler and our dog (Millie), caravan-ing on a holiday park near the seaside.

It was chaotic and wonderful in equal measure: noisy activities, sandy cuddles, big emotions (we also said goodbye to the dummy!), sea air, sofa snuggles. But what stood out most was how important it was to protect my peace, even in the busyness.

If you’re recovering from trauma, emotional abuse or simply feeling overwhelmed by the expectations of summer, this blog is for you.

Summer doesn’t always feel easy. There’s pressure to be “on”, to make memories, to keep everyone happy. But when you’ve lived through difficult relationships, your nervous system might be saying: slow down.

So here’s your Gentle Summer Survival Guide - especially if you’re healing.

• Protect your calm

  It’s Okay if you don’t want to be around crowds, parties or constant plans. It’s okay to say no. Your peace is valid.

• Move in a way that feels safe

  You don’t have to “exercise”. Healing movement can be:

  • Stretching on your mat

  • Walking barefoot on grass

  • Swaying to music in the kitchen

  • Chasing bubbles in your garden

This is the heart of Survivor Steps - our body-based discovery programme for women healing from trauma.

• Honour your boundaries

  You don’t owe anyone your time, your energy, or your “yes”. Boundaries are not mean. They’re how we take care of ourselves.

• Let joy in, gently

  Even if it’s small. Even if it doesn’t last. Joy is a form of resistance. Let it come in.

• Choose what you consume

  Mute the feeds that make you feel “not enough”. Unfollow anyone who triggers comparison. You’re allowed to protect your peace here, too.

You’re allowed a soft summer

You don’t have to be everything to everyone. You' don’t have to keep up. You are allowed to heal, slowly, softly, gently - and still enjoy the sunshine.

Want to feel like yourself again?

If you’re ready to reconnect with your body, rebuild trust in yourself, and gently move forward, join us in Survivor Steps - a trauma-aware movement programme designed for women healing from abuse.

Safe, supportive and no dance experience needed.

Essex-based

Find out more here: www.thedandelionproject.co.uk

You deserve peace - this summer and always.

With Love,

Fi x