Golden Glow Sunday
Surprise! Would you believe there are positive outcomes from chronic illness?
Let’s be honest, "positive mindset” can feel like a platitude when you're dealing with a chronic illness or other life hardship. This phrase from well meaning people or articles can result in frustration or agitation, making you feel that the challenge you're dealing with is even more insurmountable. Feeling pressured to be upbeat when you feel anything but can add to your upset. The journey can make you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and even angry. In the worst of times, I’ve cried myself to sleep countless nights, feeling utterly lost and wanting badly to give up, and being so overwhelmed it felt like I was drowning. There were moments when I felt disconnected from my body, even sometimes betrayed by it and not understanding its signals, needs or how to help and soothe it.
Acknowledging these feelings is the first step. Denying them can add to your burden, making the struggle harder emotionally and physically. Somehow the act of acknowledging your feelings lessens their hold over you. It’s okay not to be okay at times. Yet even in those moments of darkness, we can find small glimmers of light toward acceptance. Even if we don’t like it one bit. It's in these moments of vulnerability and honesty that we can begin to find true inner strength to heal.
One of the most profound practices, directed towards my own body, is using my Golden Glow Body Gratitude Practice.
It might sound unusual, but every morning, while looking in the mirror, I speak to myself. I promise you, it gets easier the more you practice!
'Thank you,' I say. 'Thank you for all you do for me: for the incredible resilience you show, for the signals you send, for letting me know how you feel and if we’re healing.’
It's a dialogue which recognizes the tireless work my body does, even when it's struggling. It's shifted my perspective from seeing my body as an adversary to a partner in this journey. Plus, invoking gratitude multi-tasks your healing journey. It nourishes your body and soul and banishes negativity. Tony Robbins says “gratitude is the solution to both anger and fear.
In addition to gratitude, here are a few practical tips that have helped me cultivate a golden glow gratitude mindset during challenging times:
Mindful Moments: Even a few minutes of quiet meditation or deep breathing can create space for calm plus soothe your nervous system. I regularly listen to Dr. Joe Dispenza.
Small Joys: Look for the little things that bring you joy. It could be a warm cup of tea, a favorite song, or a conversation with a loved one. My children lift me up, and I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to have traveled the world, learning from the experts who guided my healing journey.
Connection: Reach out to others. Sharing your experiences can lessen the sense of isolation. This can be hard as you may feel uncomfortable sharing what a hard time you're really going through. I experienced this as many people in my life didn't understand and couldn't relate to my health struggles. When I met other patients and a few amazing people who listened, it lightened my burden. I felt less alone, and more supported and nourished.
Focus on What You Can Control: When things feel overwhelming, focus on the aspects of your life you can influence. I would focus on each step of my healing as if peeling back an onion-each layer needs to be addressed and healed before you go to the next one.
Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate every step forward, no matter how small. We often create our own obstacles by ignoring our body's signals. It's okay to move at a slower pace; in fact, it's often the most efficient way to achieve long-term success. Rushing leads to setbacks, while steady consistency builds momentum. Meeting yourself where you are, with patience and kindness, is the true path to progress. Be the wise turtle, not the impulsive hare.
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a dear friend. This was so difficult for me and took a long time to master. A therapist once suggested to me- “Melissa- we often hug people when they are sad or need comfort but we never hug ourselves- go hug yourself today.”
Finding your golden glow isn’t about pretending the clouds don’t exist. It’s about learning to see the light shining through them. It's about leaning in to accepting where you are, building resilience, practicing gratitude, and nurturing your inner self. Even the act of remembering that even in the darkest of times, there is always a spark of light within you, waiting to shine. And by thanking your body, you can find your inner sun shine through.
THANK YOU:)
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