On PTSD Awareness Day, I find myself reflecting on a transformative chapter of my life—one that took me from the depths of trauma to the spark of rebirth. After leaving teaching due to serious health challenges, multiple operations followed by PTSD left me feeling utterly lost. But from that darkness, Single Swan was born—a sanctuary of style, self-compassion, and emotional wellbeing.

✨ What My Healing Journey Taught Me

1. Small shifts add up
   Embracing tiny acts of self-kindness—whether it’s lighting a candle, wearing something that makes you feel radiant, or skipping one less workout—creates consistent emotional momentum.

2. Comfort heals
   Wearing cosy clothes that honour the body post-trauma (like the Willow and 7SWAN Jumpsuits did for me) reminds us that comfort and confidence can coexist.

3. Words reshape our mindset
   Slogans and affirmations matter. A glittery message on your tee isn’t fluff—it’s a daily reminder that you deserve sparkle, even on the hardest days.

4. Community is everything
   Talking with others who’ve walked a similar path, finding therapists or peers who “get it”—these connections remind us: we’re not alone.

5. Healing isn’t linear
   There were days when I felt I’d relapsed into old fears. That’s okay. 

🔍 Challenges I’ve Faced (and Continue To)

• Body uncertainty after multiple surgeries—learning to accept that my body is my own, even with its new scar stories.

• Emotional exhaustion, especially when PTSD symptoms resurfaced in quiet moments.

• Societal pressure—feeling like I should “bounce back,” even when recovery felt fragile.

💡 Top Tips for Anyone on a PTSD Healing Path

• Prioritise comfort clothing—choose fabrics that feel good, that support both your body and your mood.

• Seek small joys daily—be it a favourite tea, a walk around the block, or a soothing playlist.

• Keep community close—mental health professionals, online support groups, trauma-aware friends.

• Normalise slow healing—it’s okay to rest, to need assistance, to be imperfect

💚 A Book That Helped Me: Lucky by Louise Thompson

Louise Thompson’s memoir, Lucky: Learning to Live Again (published April 24, 2025), resonated deeply with me. She endured unimaginable trauma—an emergency C-section that put her life at risk, enduring PTSD, ulcerative colitis, and stoma surgery—yet she emerges with raw honesty and resilience 

Louise describes depression as “like acid being poured into my head,” a powerful way to explain what so many feel yet struggle to articulate. Her candid sharing reminds us that our feelings are valid—and that with community and care, healing is possible.

📚 I highly recommend Lucky for anyone walking the PTSD path—you won’t feel alone.

💬 Your Voice Matters

This PTSD Awareness Day, let’s normalise stories of survival. Share what made a difference—whether it was a book, a piece of clothing, or a supportive friend. Use #FreeYourSparkle to connect and uplift.

🕊️ Final Thoughts

From my darkest days to founding Single Swan, I’ve learned how clothing, kindness, and community can be woven into healing. PTSD reminded me that resilience isn't about pushing through pain—it’s about honouring your journey, step by step.

Here’s to embracing your sparkle, kindness in action, and healing through every stitch.

I'd love to know your thoughts on this. Let us know in comments or pop me an email info@singleswan.co.uk

Besos

Alicia x