Greetings dear readers!
Today, I invite you to join me on a journey of discovery – a journey about the power of gratitude that extends far beyond the annual Thanksgiving table. Let's talk about the richness that a daily gratitude practice can bring to our lives.
For many years, I was lost in the wilderness of chronic illness. I felt like a ship being tossed about in a turbulent sea, with waves of pain constantly washing over me. Every day was a struggle, with my pain levels perpetually hovering around a 5 on a scale of 1-10.
There were periods of crippling constipation, followed by episodes of desperate dashes to the bathroom. And as if that wasn’t enough, my mental health teetered precariously, my moods swinging like a pendulum.
Chronic illness is not a journey for the faint-hearted. Imagine feeling like a prisoner in your own body, never able to escape the shackles of constant pain. My body cried out for help, but I didn't understand its desperate language. It took years to realize that these were not arbitrary assaults but desperate pleas from a suffering body.
I often remind myself, and those around me, "once you know better, you do better."
My turning point arrived in 2015 when I embraced Functional Medicine. To some, this might sound overly dramatic. But to those who have wrestled with chronic illness, they know exactly what I mean when I say Functional Medicine saved my life.
In the hands of a compassionate practitioner who saw me as a person, not just another number, my journey towards health began. I became stronger, healthier, more energetic. No longer was I simply surviving, I was thriving. This newfound vitality and wellness weren't gifted to me, but the result of heeding my body's messages, unmasking the root causes of my illnesses, and nurturing my body back to health.
I remember vividly the years of pain and suffering. But today, I am filled with gratitude for those challenging times. They carved me into the strong, resilient woman I am now. I am grateful for every ache, every symptom because they were the messengers that ultimately led me to my healing.
These days, when my body talks, I listen. When it signals the need for rest, I respect it.
I understand the balance between pushing forward and stepping back. I've learned that my vulnerability is not a sign of weakness, but a badge of authenticity. I share my journey openly in the hope that my story may light the way for others.
Now, don't get me wrong. I am not claiming to be a superhuman immune to bad days, illnesses, or mood swings. I still sometimes eat the wrong foods, experience stress, and face life's ups and downs. However, my gratitude practice helps me regain perspective, reminding me of my strength and resilience.
Every day, I come back to my commitment to making choices that nurture my health and wellbeing. Each morning, as the sun rises, I am grateful for another opportunity to live, play, inspire, empower, and lead.
So, as we move forward, I challenge you to join me in this daily practice of gratitude. It's not just for Thanksgiving, but for every single day of the year. Whether it's a ray of sunshine, a hearty meal, a random act of kindness, that you are alive and breathing or your ability to overcome challenges - there's always something to be grateful for.
I leave you with a question, dear readers, "What are you truly grateful for?" Remember, in the rhythm of life, the notes of gratitude create the most beautiful melody. Let's learn to play that melody each day of our lives. And if you'd like to share, please comment below. I'd love to hear from you.
In Health & Wellness,
