when you download a pdf and it's called like 1328723486basdf12.pdf but then you gently rename it to what it's supposed to be. that's forming a bond with a hurt and wild mythological creature and reminding it who it is.
cats don't even unstick their claws out of things anymore they will just sit there with their claw stuck in a blanket and look at you like this until you unstick it for them
therapist: so, how have you been coping with your anxiety lately?
Me, nervously: Well… I’ve been trying to treat myself like a nervous cat…
therapist, stifling a goodnatured laugh: Oh? can you explain that to me?
Me: Well… if you have a nervous cat, the first thing you do is make sure their environment is safe and remove stressors… and you make sure they have enough food and water and places to hide… and you provide some enrichment in case they need to work out energy…
Therapist: And how are you applying that to yourself?
Me: Um. If I feel anxious, I’ll see if I need to back out of any sites or conversations, enforce my boundaries… check my environment for flashing lights or painful noises… make sure I’m hydrated and have eaten… and work on a hobby
Therapist: those are all excellent things! You’re a nervous cat and you need care and kindness!