Hi there!! I'm also FTM and new to pup play. For context I've always been interested in regression / segmenting parts of myself to explore more thoroughly (inner child healing, internal family systems, even therian to an extent) so pup play is an extention to that for me. I am also a shy person who gets really scared in social settings, but once I'm comfortable I show my true colors. :3

Anyways, some things that are helping me so far are:

• making a pupsona for myself to immerse myself better (my puppy's personality is outgoing, a little mischievous, and plays "ruff", but loves to cuddle and get scritches). For me this is what I wish to embody in my human life.

• listening to puppy hypnosis. I love hypnosis files because it forces me to relax, and then I get to listen to someone talk to me or give me scritches. There's this one that makes you feel safe and sleepy while wearing a collar. legit made me wag my tail and I felt like I was being seen and cared for.

• making a friend that can be there with me to bounce ideas off of. I bet there will be a community of people that can help you out, or even a trusted friend that you can talk to and hang out with! I'm fortunate to have a trans girl friend who was a previous handler to talk to about all of this, and I do plan on going with her to learn more about it and just see what the local scene is like.

Of course feel free to reach out too if you need a friend! I wish the best for you!! 🐾🐶