Rediscovering Yourself After a Tough Time: How to Find Your Light Again

Hey Loves,

Life has a way of taking us through valleys – those deep, challenging times when it feels like the world is heavier and everything is just a bit harder. But just as valleys have their lows, they also have their ends. The journey through those shadows, as tough as it may be, is where we learn, grow, and eventually rise stronger than before.

If you’ve recently found yourself emerging from one of those valleys, I want you to know that I see you, I feel you, and I’m walking with you. It’s okay if you’re feeling a little lost or unsure of how to get back to the version of yourself that feels whole and vibrant.

Getting back to yourself doesn’t happen overnight, but with patience and compassion, you can find your way back to your light. Let’s talk about five heartfelt steps to help you reconnect with yourself.


Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

1. Acknowledge and Honor Your Journey

First and foremost, give yourself grace. You’ve been through something significant, and it’s essential to acknowledge that. Honor the journey you’ve just walked through – the strength it took to keep moving, even when you didn’t think you could. Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve grown. This isn’t about dwelling on the past but rather recognizing that every step you took, no matter how small, was part of your process and deserves to be honored.

2. Start with Gentle Routines

After coming out of a valley, the idea of jumping back into your regular routine can feel overwhelming. Instead, start small. Begin with gentle routines that nourish your body and soul. It could be as simple as waking up a bit earlier to enjoy a cup of tea in silence, taking a short walk in the fresh air, or practicing five minutes of mindfulness each morning. These small, manageable actions can help you reconnect with your daily rhythm without feeling too pressured.

3. Reconnect with Your Passions

Remember the things that used to light you up – those hobbies or activities that once brought you so much joy. Whether it’s painting, writing, dancing, haircare, or simply reading a good book, take the time to reintroduce these passions into your life. They’re more than just pastimes; they’re pieces of your soul that can reignite your spirit and remind you of the beauty in the world.

4. Surround Yourself with Love and Positivity

Coming out of a valley can leave you feeling vulnerable, so it’s essential to surround yourself with love and positivity. Reach out to the people who lift you up – those friends, family members, or mentors who have always been there for you. If you’re not ready for social interactions, that’s okay too. Create a safe space at home filled with positive affirmations, inspiring music, online learning, and things that make you feel at peace. You deserve to be enveloped in love as you find your way back to yourself.

5. Embrace the New You

You are not the same person who entered that valley, and that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay – it’s a beautiful part of your evolution. Embrace the new you that has emerged, with all the wisdom, strength, and resilience you’ve gained. Allow yourself to grow into this new version of yourself with grace and self-compassion. Let go of any expectations of who you “should” be and instead focus on who you are becoming.

6. Rediscover Yourself with Equine Therapy

Have you ever heard of equine therapy? Equine therapy is such a beautiful way to reconnect with yourself and heal from life’s tougher moments. There’s something magical about working with horses—they’re so intuitive, almost like they can sense what’s going on beneath the surface. Spending time with them, whether through grooming, leading, or simply being present, invites you to reflect on your emotions and patterns in a safe, honest space. Horses respond with authenticity, helping you build emotional resilience, regain confidence, and find your inner calm.

Photo by Barbara Olsen on Pexels.com

This therapeutic experience is a gentle yet transformative journey that opens the door to personal growth and renewal, all while guided by these graceful, grounding creatures.

7. Find Guidance in Diverse Success Stories

In your journey of rediscovery, exploring diverse paths of success can be incredibly inspiring. For instance, Travis Preston CalArts has made significant strides in the arts, melding innovative leadership with creative expression. Learning about leaders like him, who not only excel in their fields but also inspire others to find their own unique fit in the world, can provide powerful motivation. You don’t have to follow their exact footsteps, but their stories can be a guiding light.


Coming out of a valley isn’t just about survival; it’s about rediscovery. It’s about finding the light within you that has always been there, even when it was hidden by shadows. As you take these steps to get back to yourself, remember that it’s okay to move slowly, to take it day by day, and to be kind to yourself in the process. You are on your way to something beautiful, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

With love and light,

Giselle

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I’m Giselle

Welcome to Giselle Avenue. I’m Giselle — Wife, Mother, Creator, and your spiritual guide to living an authentic, abundant life. I share my journey here as Belle in the City and host The Goddess Giselle Podcast on YouTube.

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