Waking up engulfed in pain, each heartbeat sending chilling waves through my body, was a revelation I never saw coming. I was an athlete, I was healthy –
“Why was this happening to me?” I thought over and over…
Even the simple act of walking to the bathroom in the morning caused nausea, dizziness, and head pain that left me crippled on the floor.
Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a journey that would reshape my entire life and open me up to new perspectives.
It wasn’t until this year that the puzzle pieces fell into place, the answers slowly unfolded, and while I may never be completely healed (so to speak), I have found hope,and gratitude and can enjoy a life well-lived again.
Only God!
Lessons Learned: Navigating the Maze of Pain
It’s Not Your Fault
One key lesson that really struck a chord on my journey is that having pain doesn’t mean there’s something inherently “wrong” with you. The social stigma around pain can make you feel like you’re carrying the weight of the world alone.
But here’s the deal: understanding that factors like genetics, environment, and nutrition play a role can lift that heavy self-blame burden.
I’ve been there, struggling with pointing fingers at my love for endurance sports and climbing the career ladder as the sole culprits of my pain.
But hey, truth be told – it’s not just ONE thing. Chronic illness and pain usually tag-team us when we least expect it.
And through this, we learn that health is something to never take for granted ever again….
Lifestyle Changes Can Bring Relief
In the card game of life, sometimes you’re dealt a challenging hand, but that doesn’t mean you can’t reshuffle the deck.
Researching and implementing lifestyle changes became my armor against persistent pain and helped me feel in control of my situation.
Even after seemingly failed attempts and trips to the Mayo Clinic, the key was to keep fighting for healing and recovery, keeping faith and hope alive.
We’re our own best advocate – we know our bodies and can recognize when something is working and when it’s NOT!
So keep fighting, searching, and working for YOUR answers….
While professionals can offer assistance, choose those who treat you holistically, addressing the problem at hand but also understanding your overall well-being.
Our health, whether sick or not, needs to be a 360-degree approach!
Choosing Your Response
Learning from my journey, I realized that how we respond to pain and illness needs to change.
Instead of dwelling in anger and frustration, choosing a positive attitude can be VERY powerful for healing.
We hold the power to shape our response, and by approaching pain with resilience and optimism, we become a testament to the strength within us.
Plus…. Research shows that a positive attitude can contribute to faster recovery and better overall well-being! So why not?
And, you can become an inspiration to those around you who may be struggling.
Be the LIGHT!
Journeying in Community
This probably goes without saying, but having friends who totally get you and always cheer you on can make all the difference in the world …
Whether it’s catching up with pals or joining online groups, sharing stories with folks who understand can lift a load off our shoulders and help us through the tougher seasons of life.
Now, here’s the thing – make sure your support group is encouraging and uplifting. Some of those online groups can be really negative (and downright depressing!)
So fill your world with POSITIVE people!
Here’s the best part: having your own little community isn’t just about feeling warm and fuzzy; it’s actually good for your health.
I stumbled upon this study, and it basically said that having strong social connections is not just nice—it boosts your mind and body in ways that can actually help you heal!
A Shift in Healing & New Views
Navigating my own battle with Lupus, which followed years of grappling with debilitating migraines and perplexing symptoms, became a journey of self-discovery.
In the middle of the mess, I became stronger – while fighting against my body, I became more resilient. And when I was at the end of my rope, I learned to hang on.
Healing, in my case, came from a transformative shift to an animal-based diet to battle deep inflammation. The shift I experienced, even after exhausting what felt like every conceivable option, went beyond mere natural remedies.
It was a revealing journey, and as I look back, I can’t help but view it as nothing short of a true miracle unfolding in my life.
So, while this might sound counterintuitive, I’m thankful for my journey… it’s made me who I am today, and I like her more.
New Perspectives on Life and Health
This journey has gifted me a new lens through which I view life and health. It has softened my heart and opened my eyes to the beautiful blessings right in front of me.
I’ve learned that ignoring signs from our bodies and advice from others can lead to a detrimental pursuit of the next milestone.
My health has become the foundation for everything else in my world —
- I can go out with my amazing husband
- I can attend parties & events with my beautiful friends
- I can travel to visit my supportive family
- —basically, I can live AGAIN!
A Reminder to Cherish Life’s True Treasures
This journey serves as a reminder that a life centered around physical and mental well-being and meaningful relationships is far more fulfilling than anything else.
As I share this story, it’s a reminder to myself — health is the gateway to enjoying the life that has always been right in front of me.
And I’ll never take that for granted again…
XO,
jules
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11
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