Mastodawn

The Healing Journey: Small Steps to Wellness

Last weekend, I hiked the easy Inman Pond trail in the Adirondacks. With an elevation gain of only about 475 ft., it was a manageable hike. A year ago, I would have found it painful and challenging; three years ago, the Inman Pond trail would have felt almost impossible.

Perspective Shift

The extent to which chronic migraine, lupus, and endometriosis have shifted my life and my perspective over the last six years is not as vast as I had once believed. Through the often relentless pain and suffering, I am still me; the inherent essence of who I am sits quietly behind the pain, behind the striving for healing.

The Still Point

This still point, a sanctuary amidst the chaos, is my anchor. It was from this point of calm and clarity that I began to make small but significant changes to aid in my healing journey. I have learned to listen to my body, understanding its rhythms and needs, allowing myself to rest when required and gradually incorporating gentle movements that foster both physical and emotional well-being.

Health Shifts

Of course, my doctors have prescribed medications to help control the symptoms of these ailments, which help but do not cure or obliterate the pain. These medications can provide temporary relief, yet the underlying struggles remain, weighing heavily on my daily life. I had lost so much strength, muscle, and ability, and no magic pill was going to bring that back.

Living Fully

Before lupus and the resurgence of my chronic migraine, I was heavily involved in community and physical activity. Helping with local school musical productions from set work to directing, while running 15 to 20 miles a week, attending multiple yoga classes, and engaging in vigorous strength training, I was on fire!

The Fire Goes Out

Photo by Keenan Constance on Pexels.com

That fire didn’t burn out slowly; it was extinguished with a suddenness that took me by surprise. In a few months, I went from seemingly healthy—exercising regularly and enjoying life—to struggling to walk and speak, tasks that once felt second nature. Simple conversations became exhausting, and I found myself grappling with frustration as my body betrayed me. At its worst, I was sent to the ER because my doctor thought I was having a stroke, a harrowing experience that left me feeling both helpless and afraid for my future. Each day felt like a battle, leaving me to question how quickly everything could change.

Rediscovering The Still Point

The journey to reclaim my former self has been an uphill battle, filled with moments of frustration and doubt. I had to rely on my inner strength, digging deep to unearth reserves of resilience that I never knew I possessed. It was crucial for me to continuously find that still point amid the pain, a place of calm where I could gather my thoughts and recharge my spirit, reminding myself that each day was another opportunity for growth and healing despite the challenges I faced.

Incorporating Wellness Practices

Through these small steps, such as taking the stairs at work instead of the elevator, adding moments of reflection and meditation to my day, and shifting towards an anti-inflammatory diet, I have made tremendous progress over the last year.

Learning Patience

I was occasionally impatient with my progress; for example, I work on the eighth floor, so I decided that taking the stairs would be a good way to gradually increase my strength over time. I assumed steady progress would be the norm. However, on certain days when I could only make it to the fourth floor and had to take the elevator, I would feel betrayed by my body. It was frustrating to realize that despite my efforts, my physical limitations sometimes got the better of me, leaving me to wonder if I was truly making any progress at all. Each setback felt like a personal defeat, yet deep down, I knew every little attempt contributed to my journey toward better health.

Small Steps = Great Progress

These efforts, which seemed minor at first, have collectively contributed to a healthier lifestyle and improved well-being. I have found that the more I prioritize my physical health and mental clarity, the more energized and motivated I feel. As a result, I can finally get out and enjoy trekking through my favorite place in the world, the Adirondacks, where majestic mountains and serene lakes rejuvenate my spirit and provide a sense of peace.

The Beauty of Struggle

Had I had a life without turmoil, backsliding, or trauma, I would not be managing stress the way I can today. Every hardship in my life has taught me resilience, how to move through difficulty with grace and flow. Challenges taught me the importance of patience and critical thinking, and that most things are not as unbearable as they seem. Each experience, whether it felt overwhelming or insurmountable at the time, has carved out a deeper understanding within me.

Suffering as Wisdom

I discovered that suffering is a teacher, imparting wisdom that becomes a part of my very being. I spoke about ways of coping in the piece “Navigating Suffering Through Buddhist Wisdom” a few weeks ago, sharing insights that arise from reflecting on my journey. Using this framework, I can patiently and deliberately move towards wholeness, embracing not only the light but also the shadows that shape my existence.

Returning To Wholeness

My journey through chronic pain and illness has not only reshaped my physical abilities but has also profoundly influenced my perspective on life. The trials I have faced have cultivated resilience, compassion, and an understanding that healing is a multifaceted process that encompasses both body and mind.

Moving Forward

By embracing the small victories and honoring my body’s signals, I have discovered a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. The Adirondacks, with their rugged beauty, serve as a reminder of the peace that can exist alongside struggle. As I continue to navigate my healing path, I carry forward the lessons learned through suffering, committed to nurturing both my physical health and my spirit, and embracing each step as part of a greater journey toward wholeness.

Below, I have lovingly cultivated a list of gentle practices to help you embark on your healing journey. Please remember to be patient with yourself; healing is rarely a straightforward path. We meander and flow, gathering momentum and wisdom as we navigate our healing journey with intentionality and compassion

Gentle Ways To Begin Healing

Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to the signals your body sends. Acknowledge when you need rest and allow yourself the time to recuperate.
Incorporate Gentle Movements: Start with simple stretches or light activities that your body can handle. Aim to gradually increase your activity levels as your strength improves.
Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Set aside moments each day for mindfulness or meditation. Use this time to center yourself, breathe deeply, and cultivate inner peace.
Focus on Nutrition: Transition to an anti-inflammatory diet that includes whole foods. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals.
Engage in Reflective Practices: Take time for journaling or reflection. Consider your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and how they contribute to your healing process.
Seek Support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups who understand your journey. Sharing your challenges can foster a sense of community and belonging.
Embrace Nature: Spend time outdoors in natural settings. Activities like hiking, walking, or simply sitting in a park can provide rejuvenation for both mind and spirit.
Be Patient with Yourself: Understand that healing is a journey that takes time. Be compassionate toward yourself, acknowledging that ups and downs are a natural part of the process.
Create a Healthy Sleep Routine: Aim for consistent sleep patterns. Prioritize restful sleep by creating a calming bedtime environment.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens, especially before bed. This can help improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue.
Practice Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal to document what you appreciate each day. This can shift your mindset and enhance overall well-being.

If you are beginning your healing journey, I suggest starting with listening to your body. This is where we truly learn the wisdom held within ourselves. Our bodies possess innate knowledge that guides us; they know when we need rest, self-care, or movement. By taking the time to listen deeply to the inherent wisdom, we allow the body and mind to communicate with each other, opening the pathways to wholeness. This connection fosters a deeper understanding of our needs, cultivating an environment where healing can flourish. As you engage in this practice, you may discover signals that indicate emotional or physical states, helping you to navigate life’s challenges with greater awareness and resilience. Remember, each step you take in tuning into your body’s messages brings you closer to a harmonious balance, nurturing both your inner self and overall well-being.

For deeper emotional healing, I offer you this free guide to Somatic Experiencing, which delves into the profound connection between our bodies and our feelings. This guide is designed to help you understand how our physical sensations can inform our emotional states and facilitate healing. By engaging with the principles of Somatic Experiencing, you will learn practical techniques to process trauma, release tension, and foster a sense of safety within your body. Embrace this opportunity to explore a holistic approach to healing, enabling you to cultivate resilience and emotional well-being.