Whether you have stretch marks from puberty, pregnancy, and/or weight gain, it is hard not to be self conscious about them when we are bombarded with flawless skin from Photoshop in magazines and media.
Physically, stretch marks are a result from the elastic tissue of the skin expanding at a faster rate than the skin stretches. High levels of stress increase cortisol leading to decreased levels of collagen. Collagen is what gives our skin its elasticity. When collagen is reduced the skin is not receptive and can then be resistant to stretching.
Emotionally and mentally, stretch marks can be triggering depending on how you got them and can be a huge reason in wanting to hide from yourself and others. They can cause depression, lack of self confidence, cause you to feel isolated, and feel like your body and/or life is ruined.
Use the following journal prompts (with examples) and clearing script to help you work through and release the negative emotions and triggers around your stretch marks, therefore releasing excess stress from your body, and shift into fully embracing your stretch marks and the story they tell.