Not all “self-care” is actually caring for yourself. Sometimes it’s survival mode in disguise. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith breaks down the subtle differences between restorative self-care and sneaky self-sabotage. She reveals how childhood messages shape the way we treat ourselves as adults, especially when it comes to productivity, fear, and avoidance. If you’ve ever wondered why your “breaks” sometimes leave you feeling worse, this conversation will help you recognize what’s really happening and how to shift into true, supportive self-care. Elyssa shares calming techniques, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you rewire limiting beliefs and create a safe environment where growth can actually flourish. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How survival mode can masquerade as self-care The impact of childhood messages on adult behaviors Why your nervous system triggers self-sabotage when it perceives threats How to tell the difference between a needed break and avoidance Why unintentional “self-care” can actually stall your growth How to spot patterns of exhaustion before they sabotage progress Simple calming techniques to reset your system in the moment How uncovering the root of your fears helps overcome self-sabotage Why creating safety is essential for lasting personal growth 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Survival Mode vs. Self-Care 02:45 – The Impact of Childhood Messages on Adult Behavior 05:48 – Recognizing Self-Sabotage in the Name of Self-Care 08:35 – Strategies for Overcoming Self-Sabotage 11:41 – Creating a Safe Environment for Growth 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: If self-sabotage keeps showing up in your “self-care,” let’s uncover what’s really going on. Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and learn how to create a safe, growth-focused reset. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge