
I am constantly reevaluating my relationship with myself. Think about it like a self-assessment questionnaire — asking myself a series of questions to know my strengths and weaknesses, areas of improvement, goals, and achievements. As a mom and wife, it is important to me to have moments to check-in because it’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks and lose yourself in the process. I cannot expect someone to care more about my needs than I do. Expectations are resentments waiting to happen.
One thing that I am constantly battling with is my health. 2022 was the most challenging year for my physical and mental health, which tested me beyond what I thought I could handle. The year started with acute urticaria, also known as hives, with no known allergies. I had never experienced hives before and it took two weeks to manage the intensity of the swelling and itchiness. I received a clean bill of health from my primary doctor, the allergist, dermatologist, and rheumatologist after many skin panels and blood tests. There was no known cause for my inflammation. One year later, I now have what is called chronic urticaria, that can last for more than six weeks and return over months or years. Often, the cause of chronic hives isn’t clear. But it can occur when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues; this is known as an autoimmune reaction.
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Living with chronic illness has a way of changing your outlook on life, it could even feel debilitating. Mental Health America shared “… often mental illnesses and other chronic conditions co-occur. People with cancer often have depression; people with schizophrenia often have diabetes; and people with chronic pain often have both physical and behavioral health challenges.”
I spent the latter part of the year coming to terms with my new normal and finding ways to manage the symptoms with medicine and therapy. It wasn’t until I joined the gym that I felt like I was in control of my body. The lack of sleep, fatigue, and changes in my appetite made it harder to workout or set a regular routine. But I was committed to turning a corner. In addition to cleaner eating, I enrolled in fitness classes that challenged me and helped me become active. I started doing pilates weekly, and I hired a trigger point therapist to help me release tension.
Each day, I wake up and put one foot in front of the other. Faith keeps me moving forward. I believe all my questions will be answered, and my pain will become manageable. It is the one belief that I cling to when times get hard, and brings me joy when I need it most.
How I’m Transforming My Relationship With My Health in 2023
Less Drinking
I love a good cocktail, and enjoy making them even more. While I don’t overindulge in spirits, social gatherings promote drinking more. And alcohol can have a negative impact on my health. Although I’m not giving it up completely, swapping for non-alcoholic beverages will do more good than harm.
Better Sleep Hygiene
Good sleep hygiene puts you in the best position to sleep well each and every night. Obtaining healthy sleep is important for both physical and mental health, improving productivity and overall quality of life. I am committed to going to bed at the same time and creating an environment that promotes peace and relaxation.
Saying “No”
No is a complete sentence, and I have to be better with not overcommitting myself to people or projects. Remaining firm in our truths helps us lessen stress.
Being More Present
I am the definition of “doing too much.” Rarely do I do one task at a time, which doesn’t help with my productivity. Being present will help me lean into the details and get better results.
Less Superwoman, More Acceptance
I’m a certified life coach and I have a hard time listening to people’s problems and not offering advice or an action plan. 1) I am not a superwoman. 2) It is not my job to save everyone. 3) I have to accept what I cannot change.
Incorporating More Eastern Medicine Into Practice
Throughout my health journey, I’m learning that the path to wellness is not linear. I believe that Western medicine offers me medical assistance to treat my symptoms. However, Eastern medicine, the nonconventional treatments, have helped me achieve successes as well. Chiropractic, acupuncture, homeopathy, and meditation help me center myself, while finding relief from pain. I am grateful for both the practices and the outcomes they provide.
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