From Rejection to Reconnection: Healing Your Relationship With Yourself
A herpes diagnosis can trigger a complicated relationship with your body. It’s common to feel betrayed, frustrated, or even disgusted, as though your body has let you down.
This rejection isn’t your fault—it’s a reaction to years of societal stigma that wrongly paints herpes as something shameful. But it’s important to recognize that your body isn’t the problem. In fact, it’s working harder than ever to support you.
This rejection isn’t your fault—it’s a reaction to years of societal stigma that wrongly paints herpes as something shameful. But it’s important to recognize that your body isn’t the problem. In fact, it’s working harder than ever to support you.
The stigma around herpes is a heavy burden to bear. Many of us internalize the idea that having a virus makes us "dirty" or "unworthy," which leads to disconnecting from our bodies. You might avoid mirrors, withdraw from intimacy, or shy away from physical activities you once enjoyed. These feelings are valid, but they don’t define you—or your body.
Reconnecting with yourself starts with small acts of kindness. Begin by acknowledging your body for what it is: an incredible machine that works tirelessly to protect you.
During an outbreak, this might mean applying soothing products like the Fix It Salve or Reviver Soap to comfort your skin. These actions aren’t just about managing symptoms—they’re about reminding yourself that your body deserves care, even when it feels difficult to give.
During an outbreak, this might mean applying soothing products like the Fix It Salve or Reviver Soap to comfort your skin. These actions aren’t just about managing symptoms—they’re about reminding yourself that your body deserves care, even when it feels difficult to give.
Writing can also be a therapeutic outlet. Grab a journal and explore your feelings about your body. What do you admire about it? How has it supported you through challenges in the past? Shifting your focus from what’s "wrong" to what’s "right" can help you rebuild trust with yourself.
Another powerful tool is movement. Gentle activities like yoga or stretching can help you reconnect with your body in a nonjudgmental way. With each pose or stretch, remind yourself that your body is still capable, still strong, and still worthy of love.
Rejecting your body after a herpes diagnosis is a natural response to a difficult situation, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With time, patience, and the right tools, you can heal your relationship with yourself and rediscover the joy of living in your own skin.