Hi everyone, my last blog was in April and it’s been a rather busy time since. Sometimes life throws curveballs, and sometimes life just adds far too many layers at once, and that’s pretty much where I’ve been, addressing some health challenges that decided to show up. I thought I had a pretty good handle on it all…… and for the greater part, I did.
We’ve been down some pretty deep and dark rabbit holes contemplating the possibility of long Covid and the link to some extra heart issues that have arisen, requiring addressing promptly. In the middle of all of that, on Anzac Day during a wonderful eBike ride in the mountains, I managed to tear the remains of my right shoulder and bicep – quite innocuously and quite simply, no falls or get off’s, just getting into the riding position. It was apparently ‘hanging on by a thread’.
So the last little while has contained many doctor visits, many tests, scans, two general anaesthetics, a few defibrillations of the ticker and my shoulder put back together(three weeks ago). I have a total of six weeks in a sling, then rehab over the next four months. On the bright side, I will have a brand new shoulder and hopefully be back on the bike and my horse very soon.
To be honest, as I write this, I look at the words on the paper and it’s a little surreal. It’s like it’s been somebody else’s journey because amongst all that I’ve had to work and run a household, and generally just do all the things that I would usually do. I’ve had the opportunity for deep reflection, to complete my current course, attend to some much-needed admin, surrender and allow my loved ones to help with many things including my basic needs such as showering, dressing and yes – even using the bathroom is an adventure. I challenge any of you to use your non-dominant hand to complete the simple task of going to the lavatory.…this… if anything is a most amusing task if not exhausting.
My husband has been an absolute saint, he has had to take on literally everything for us and done it completely in his stride and mostly with good grace. Whilst he excels in mostly everything, he does not excel in doing my hair!!! Thank goodness our youngest still lives at home, she has also been a godsend!
During all of this it occurred to me how resilient we are as humans, how when incredible challenges are delivered by the universe we can somehow navigate our way, albeit on occasion with blind faith and hope.
When faced with health challenges, it’s crucial to prioritise self-care, if possible also some element of realistic planning. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic illness, recovering from surgery, or managing a mental health condition, taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being. In this blog post, I wanted to briefly explore strategies and tips for self-care while navigating health challenges, empowering you to cultivate resilience, and maintain your physical and emotional well-being, particularly when life becomes a shit show!
Here are my top 10 recommendations:
- Prioritise Your Physical Health and listen to your body: Pay attention to your physical needs and limitations. Rest when necessary, eat nutritious meals and engage in gentle physical activities that suit your abilities.
- Follow medical advice: Whilst I will always advocate this, I will also advocate having a voice and a choice in the process. If what your consultant says/recommends doesn’t land well you do have the right to a second opinion.
- Embrace Emotional Well-being: Seek support: Connect with friends, family, individuals who can provide emotional support and understanding and most of all you feel safe with. Sharing your experiences with others who have gone through similar challenges can be immensely comforting.
- Practice stress management: Explore stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy and relaxation.
- Try to Maintain a Positive Mindset. Focus on gratitude: Cultivate a sense of gratitude by reflecting on the things you appreciate in your life, regardless of the challenges you face. This perspective shift can bring positivity and resilience at the darkest of hours.
- Celebrate small victories: This is a BIGGIE. Acknowledge and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. It could be completing a task, managing a symptom, or achieving a personal goal. Recognising your achievements boosts self-confidence and motivation.
- Nurture the vessel: lots of easy and nutritious smoothies, lots of water and gentle exercise when possible. We even had a most generous client loan us a recumbent bike so that I could continue to exercise safely, I have been worried about going for a long walk in a sling and falling. As always consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for guidance specific to your health condition.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself: Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would extend to a loved one. Accept that some days may be challenging, and it’s okay to rest and prioritise self-care.
- Practice self-acceptance: Embrace your journey, including both the triumphs and setbacks. Remember that your worth is not defined by your health condition, and you deserve love and care.
- Set realistic goals: Break larger tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate progress, even if it’s slower than you’d like. If possible plan ahead which is what we did. I really did try this time to be realistic, one thing that I am ‘hand on heart’ guilty of is completely under-preparing and overdoing it too soon at times like this (incoming collective eye roll from those who know me best). Here are a few things we did:
- Food prep. We made lots of easy dishes like chicken with a jar of butter chicken sauce and veggies all in the same bag. Labelled and frozen. Easy to grab with one hand.
- Talked to my GP and Surgeon about my post-op pain control which was less than adequate last time (left shoulder 4 years ago). Made a plan which was awesome and helped to ease the fears going into hospital.
- Organised someone to help out with basic housework until I am able to step up again. Such a godsend.
- Purchased clothes that were easy to manage with one hand….had to shelve the jeans and have been living in yoga pants and loose fitting shirts.
- Allowed friends and family to help out…that’s a biggie also. For me and for them.
- Allowed myself to sit in the sun, watch TV, read and recuperate at least for a few days. Almost caught up on my Poldark series with my mother, haven’t watched TV much in the past few years.
While navigating health challenges, self-care becomes even more critical. You can better manage the difficulties and enhance your overall well-being by prioritising your physical health, nurturing emotional well-being, maintaining a positive mindset, adapting your lifestyle, and practicing self-compassion. Remember, self-care is not selfish but an essential investment in your health and happiness. Embrace the journey, reach out for support, and celebrate your resilience along the way.