30 PTSD Self-Care Tips
Here are 27 PTSD self-care tips to help you deal with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or even everyday stress. You certainly do not have to have post-traumatic stress disorder to see benefits from these. I built this toolbox of strategies and techniques that I...
My PTSD Story #3 – I Was Stalked by a Rapist
TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL VIOLENCE/RAPE Today, I am sharing my third PTSD story in a series about the trauma I have gone through, which led to my diagnosis of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. During the summer of 1983, I woke to the rattling of my bedroom window....
Possible Causes of PTSD, Besides Combat
There are many possible causes of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). The term PTSD is one I had long associated with soldiers returning from war. Shell-shock. Battle Fatigue. Combat Fatigue. Those were terms I had seen in movies. For years, I was living with the...
My PTSD Story #2 – Trapped at Home with a Burglar
Trigger warning. This is my second of my PTSD stories – the trauma related events that led to me living with complex post traumatic disorder. My childhood home’s basement had just one exit. A long set of stairs on the south side of the house. At the top of the stairs,...
Living With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder From Someone With PTSD (with Infographic)
Living with post-traumatic stress disorder can be so tough. Many people associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with combat soldiers. But there are many sufferers of PTSD that were never in the military, and I am one of them. Any traumatic event can result in...About Cultivate an Exceptional Life
This site was created especially for those living with chronic illness—a space filled with encouragement, practical tools, and uplifting resources to help you navigate life with greater hope and intention.
Here, you’ll find inspiration to support your healing, nurture your spirit, and empower you to build a life that feels purposeful and beautifully your own—even in the midst of struggle.
Together, we’ll explore new paths, grow through what we face, and cultivate an exceptional life—one that honors your journey every step of the way.
Meet Leisa Watkins
Founder of Cultivate an Exceptional Life, Leisa lives with multiple chronic illnesses. She has been diagnosed with, multiple sclerosis, ME/CFS, fibromyalgia, chronic Lyme disease, PTSD, and a connective tissue disorder. Her journey through personal and family health challenges has shaped a deep understanding of resilience, compassion, and the power of intentional living. Through this platform, she shares insights, tools, and inspiration to help others living with chronic illness cultivate strength, purpose, and joy—no matter what life brings.
This is my favorite meal planning tool.
