Mind-Body Basics: Scars

*Cue "Scar Tissue" by RHCP*

I don't think I've ever seen an adult body without a scar. I know I've got too many to count.

Trauma. Growth. Birth : Vessels that hold a scar.

Scars are an interesting part of the human experience, in part because of how diversely they can be viewed. For some, scars are a crack in the foundation, a downfall, a flaw keeping us from the concept of physical (or emotional) "perfection".

For others, scars are displayed with pride, carrying an epic tale of pain or resilience or sheer luck during a brush with death.

"I'm scarred for life," we say.

Yes, definitely. Actions bring consequences. Permanency on a temporary body simultaneously feels unfair and liberating.

While I will absolutely advocate for "body-neutrality" over "body-positivity", there is something affirming in the narrative that scars are a visual part of our life story and can be something to be celebrated.

Beyond that, there are ways we can manipulate scar tissue to bring us more ease. On the physical end, massage can do wonders for certain kinds of scars: loosening and reviving tissue and making room for more movement, growth, and comfort.