Remember back in high school when your English teacher had the entire class free writing for 5 minutes? Have you ever done that drawing? With your eyes closed?

Well, on this episode of #iWontFall2PTSD you’ll get the opportunity of doing just that. SSG Lopez will guide you through the simple, yet challenging process. There are some strong emotional and personal anecdotes involved in this episode. We suggest discretion while listening.

SSG Lopez breaks down the importance of doing this exercise in his journey of battening PTSD. There are just a few simple steps:

1. Gather some drawing materials (ex: paper, marker, etc)
2. Make sure you’re in a safe and no distraction environment
3. Do something to distract your mind for a few minutes (ex: write a letter, listen to music, do some military push ups, read, etc)
4. Bring your drawing materials together, close your eyes, and for 1 minute (set a timer) just draw what’s in your mind at the moment. Don’t worry about the quality of the sketch. It doesn’t matter
5. On the sketch, write how you were feeling prior to that moment. On a seperate line, write your emotions/feelings after opening your eyes and looking at your master piece (ex: surprised, unstoppable laughter,, etc)
6. Save it on your “love me book” to reference later

Please share with us how this process worked or didn’t work for you. We’d love to hear from you.

You can find out more info about Miguel A. Lopez here:

Instagram: @artbylopz @lopezmiguelofficial

Music by: Franco Magistro 

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If you have any questions or topics you'd like to explore please don't hesitate and send us a message [email protected]

#1one9 Veteran of the Week: US Army Veteran CPT. Yegerov, Vadim

Disclaimer: Just a reminder this podcast and all information is for educational purposes.  Please consult with a professional to review your own situation. There are phone numbers and links in the show notes.  If you feel like you’re in immediate harm please call 911

Veterans Crisis Line:

Tel: 1-800-273-8255 (press 1)

Tex: 838255

24/7, Confidential Support for Veterans & their loved ones.

Mental Health VA

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Tel: 1-800-273-8255