Golden Glow Sunday #7
7 essentials in my healing journey (you can use them too!)
Sundays are sacred for me. I've always found them to be a day of rest and rejuvenation, but they've taken on even deeper significance since I began my healing journey over 12 years ago. Now, I call them my Golden Glow Sundays – a day dedicated to nourishing my mind, body, and spirit with a focus on practices that have been instrumental in my recovery.
My health struggles turned my world upside down. I went from feeling vibrant and full of life to battling a debilitating disease that I was told I would die from with over 100 mysterious symptoms. It's been a long, often difficult and isolating journey but I'm incredibly grateful to say that I'm now down to just three remaining symptoms. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and the body's amazing ability to heal.
So, I want to share with you 7 key things I'm focusing on right now during my Golden Glow Sundays (and really, most days of the week!) to support my continuous healing:
Moving my body: I have learned to listen closely to my body to choose what feels best each day. Sometimes, it's a walk along the Charles River in Boston, a reminder of my pre-illness days as an avid runner, triathlete, and marathoner. On other days, I might opt for a slow run, connecting with the rhythm of my breath and getting some vitamin D. Even a light strength workout can do wonders. Movement, in whatever form it takes, is crucial for my sense of well-being.
Prioritizing protein: Prioritizing protein has been critical in my recovery journey. Chronic illness resulting in unwanted weight loss can significantly deplete the body's resources, just like in many of my clients grappling with the stress and strain of illness. I recently shared some of my favorite ways to add protein to my day on Substack, but my all-time favorite remains the Golden Goddess Smoothie with Ka'chava protein powder.
2-minute meditations: Stress, both external and internal (from viruses, bacteria, parasites and more) can worsen many health conditions, so I find it incredibly helpful to take mini-meditation breaks. Who knew two minutes could be so powerful? Taking a quick mindfulness break helps me de-stress and find calm amidst my daily stressors.
Body gratitude: This has been the most challenging practice by far!! There were times I felt so much anger towards my body, like it was betraying me. I envisioned living my life to the fullest, but instead, it seemed like my body was giving up on me. It was easy to dwell on what my body couldn’t do (such as getting out of bed due to debilitating pain) but I made a conscious effort to shift that focus. Instead, I chose to thank it: for its strength that has carried me through these tough times, and for its unwavering ability to heal. Note: I am currently writing a love letter to my body thanking it for everything it has done for me.. a very powerful exercise.
Healing visualization: I spend some time visualizing my body fully healed and functioning optimally. I picture my cells regenerating, my inflammation subsiding, and my energy returning. I've actively woven affirmations into my daily life. Notes scattered around the house with gentle reminders, "Your body wants to heal," and "You are beautiful," their presence serving as constant sources of encouragement. The mind-body connection is not to be underestimated!
Infrared sauna sessions: Infrared saunas provide gentle heat therapy which can aid in detoxification, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation. I find them incredibly relaxing and beneficial for removing built up toxins.
Hydration with minerals: Chronic illness can disrupt hydration and deplete electrolytes, vital for muscle function, nerve transmission, and nutrient absorption. Replenishing minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium can help manage symptoms, support treatment, and promote recovery.
These simple and effective practices have made a profound difference in my healing journey. Even if you can only incorporate one of these things into your routine once a week, it's a step in the right direction. Be patient and kind to your body - healing is a journey not a sprint. So enjoy your Golden Glow Sunday and remember- YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!
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