How Does 'Can'T Hurt Me' Teach Mental Toughness?

Drowning feels like a terrifying loss of control, pulling you down into depths you didn't choose. The struggle to breathe and the fight against panic can be excruciating. It's hard to describe, but imagine being trapped with no escape. In stories or movies, it may seem dramatic, but in reality, it can happen so fast and feel like such an overwhelming sense of helplessness. I hope to never experience it myself, but I understand the urgency in recognizing water safety as a priority. Life jackets change everything!

Ah, the ol' hickey! Guess what, they can cause mild pain or discomfort, especially if they're fresh or big. But don't fret, it's totally normal and it should fade in no time! Just avoid tugging at the skin around it.

H/t, a commonly used acronym in the digital world, stands for 'hat tip' or 'heard through'. It’s a way to give credit or nod to the original source of information, especially when that piece of intel is shared on social media. It’s a tiny token of respect to show you aren't trying to claim originality for an idea, joke or news item. If you crack a joke on Twitter and it gets shared by someone with many followers, you'd at least earn an H/t in the process.

Using nipple clamps can definitely come with a mix of sensations. Some might experience discomfort or pain, especially if it's their first time. Others find the pressure can be quite pleasurable. It's really about personal preference and sensitivity. If someone is new to this, starting with lighter clamps might help ease into the experience more comfortably. Always listen to your body and communicate with your partner about what feels good or too intense. Safety first, always!

Ear pain during yawning is most often caused by pressure imbalances in the middle ear—usually due to Eustachian tube dysfunction. However, several other issues can also contribute. Understanding the cause can help you find relief and know when to seek medical care. ✅ Common Cause: Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Your Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of your nose and throat. They briefly open when you yawn, swallow, or chew to equalize air pressure behind the eardrum. If these tubes don’t open properly, pressure builds up, which can lead to: A sharp or dull pain A popping sensation Fullness or muffled hearing This dysfunction is often temporary and may result from: Allergies A cold or sinus infection Air pressure changes (like during flights) ⚠️ Other Possible Reasons While Eustachian tube problems are the most common, ear pain when yawning may also be linked to: Middle Ear Infections (Otitis Media) Infections cause fluid buildup and inflammation, making movements like yawning painful. Sinus Pressure or Congestion Blocked sinuses can affect nearby ear structures, increasing pressure and discomfort. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Disorders Jaw joint issues can radiate pain to the ear, especially with mouth movements like yawning. Earwax Buildup A hard plug of earwax can put pressure on the eardrum, which may hurt during yawns. 🩺 When to See a Doctor You should contact a healthcare provider if: Ear pain is severe, recurring, or constant You notice hearing loss, drainage, or fever Pain worsens over time or doesn't improve with home care These may be signs of an infection, chronic Eustachian tube dysfunction, or another treatable condition. 👂 Simple Relief Tips For mild discomfort: Try chewing gum or swallowing to equalize pressure. Use nasal decongestants or saline sprays if you're congested. Apply warm compresses near the ear to ease TMJ-related tension. In summary: Ear pain when yawning is typically linked to Eustachian tube problems, but infections, sinus issues, TMJ disorders, and earwax can also be causes. Identifying the source helps guide the right treatment—and in some cases, a doctor’s evaluation is key.

I recently finished reading 'Does It Hurt' and was struck by how intense some of the content can be. The novel dives deep into psychological trauma, exploring themes of self-harm, emotional abuse, and manipulation in relationships. There are graphic scenes depicting cutting, which could be very triggering for readers who have struggled with similar issues. The main character's mental health deterioration is portrayed with raw honesty, including vivid descriptions of panic attacks and depressive episodes. Another major warning involves sexual content—there are explicit scenes that blur the lines of consent, including moments of coercion and power imbalances in intimate situations. The book doesn't shy away from showing toxic relationships, with characters engaging in emotional manipulation and gaslighting. If you're sensitive to themes of suicide ideation or graphic depictions of self-destructive behavior, this might not be an easy read. The author crafts these moments with such realism that they linger long after you've put the book down.

I've read 'Does It Hurt' multiple times, and the ending is one of those that sticks with you long after you finish the book. It's not a straightforward happy ending, but it's deeply satisfying in a way that feels earned. The protagonist goes through hell—literally and figuratively—facing psychological and supernatural horrors that test their limits. By the end, there's a sense of hard-won peace, but it's tinged with melancholy. The relationships they've built are forever changed, some broken beyond repair, while others emerge stronger. The final scenes leave room for hope, but it's a hope that comes with scars. The author doesn't sugarcoat the trauma, and that's what makes the ending feel real. It's not a fairy-tale resolution, but it's cathartic in its own way, showing growth and resilience without pretending everything is magically fixed. What I appreciate most is how the ending mirrors the book's themes of survival and redemption. The protagonist doesn't get a perfect life handed to them; they have to rebuild from the wreckage, and that process feels authentic. The supporting characters who make it through also carry their own baggage, making the conclusion bittersweet but meaningful. If you're looking for a traditional 'happily ever after,' this isn't it—but if you want an ending that respects the story's emotional weight, you'll find it here. The last few chapters are hauntingly beautiful, leaving just enough ambiguity to let readers imagine what comes next.

Haha, nice line! But seriously, falling in love with the world did hurt my productivity a little. So much amazing content, so little time! But I wouldn't change a thing, the joy it brings is well worth it!