When my friend thought the hashtag shoptillyoudrop made more sense than #chroncillnesswarrior (for this particular photo).
P.S. I didn’t have any energy to shop :)
Month: June 2017
You don’t get it until you get it
This says it all.
Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses. ~ Alphonse Karr 🌹
How I try to cope with the unpredictable nature of my health
How I try to cope with the unpredictable nature of my health (8.5 years and counting)
1. I make all decisions related to my health on my own because no one else knows my body better. Patient empowerment is so important when dealing with a chronic illness.
2. I trust that my body will respond if I give it enough time and care. I need to allow it time + listen to it closely.
3. I choose to work on acceptance rather than fight the inevitable. It allows me to work with my circumstances from a space of love rather than hate.
4. I acknowledge limitations, suffering and pain and put more focus on opportunities, dealing with emotions and recovery.
5. I choose faith over fear; vulnerability when necessary over strength all the time (it can be pretty unrealistic to be strong all the time).
6. I protect my energy. I’ve learned to say more ‘no’ and less ‘yes’ both politely and affirmatively.
7. I do not track my progress based on what I can do in relation to others.
8. I keep myself updated about the condition + advancements in science. This way, I’m able to make informed and choices.
9. I try to find miracles on a day to day basis. It keeps my hope going for something greater.
10. I am grateful for what I have and who I have around for me (Quality > quantity, as far as possible).
11. I celebrate every little progress I make. Sometimes getting out of bed is progress too.
12. I make flexible plans and routine. Self-care is always at the top of the list.
13. I’m honest about my health with myself and people
14. I do not ask “Why me?” anymore. That question leads to a downward spiral and takes you straight into a shithole.
15. I look at my health as just one part of my experience on this planet. It’s not my health which defines who I am as a person; it’s how I respond to it that does. I can’t just rid my body of the illness but I can definitely work on giving it less power.
I end up having to work with my body as if I’m working with a child. It takes lots of time, effort, love, compassion and consistent practise.
It’s not easy but every response is worth it 💗
Update
Hi all,
I haven’t been too well since the start of 2017. I’ve been dealing with bedriddening pain + gut related issues and the effect of all of it on my activity level has been quite significant. My health has taken a major dip this year and I’ve spent a large part of my time re-figuring things out.
This is life – it’s never predictable and to stay afloat, we have to keep finding a “new” balance + remember to be patient with ourselves through it. Sometimes it may feel like we’re starting all over again, however, it’s crucial to put our focus on the fact that we’re also wiser, stronger, more courages and a little more ready each time.
There’s been more happening in my gut and I’m currently working with an intergrative GP, a gastroenterologist and naturopath to find the next best step. The amount of decision fatigue I’ve experienced over the last five months is not funny. Apart from a rather serious back flare up + sublaxed shoulders, something so simple, straight-forward and enjoyable like food turned into this massive, overwhelmingly exhausting thing that required/ requires constant awareness and thinking.
For the next three weeks or so, I’ll be going on two very strong medications, known for worsening all existing symptoms. I’ve have been specifically told to not take this treatment too lightly and it might make life seem a tiny bit miserable. As someone who deals with excruciating pain and indescribable fatigue on a daily basis, I honestly don’t know how much worse things can get. However, I have also seen myself at my worst before and hence believe it’s important that I take extra precautions and have help available for me if necessary. Thankfully, I do have a small group of people to count on if needed.
On a brighter note, I’ve got a couple of workshops to teach and close friends to meet so I’m really keeping my fingers-crossed and spirit high :) I’m aware of what may happen, giving my body extra time off, saying more no and less yes (trust me, it’s needed when you are functioning on limited energy) and taking everything one baby step at a time.
I hope everyone’s doing fine.
In case I’m not around much, Happy June! ❤️
Love,
Md
P.S. This post is not about defeat or seeking validation, and most definitely not one asking for pity. If it sounded like any of these to anyone, please let it go. I’m just sharing and giving an update of how things have been this year. Please keep in mind that it is very much possible to mentally accept and deal with things gracefully WHILE experiencing a great amount of physical discomfort.
#chronicillness
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