Hello Everyone,
After much thought on my physical, spiritual, and psychological well-being, the conclusion is that I am in the middle ground (about 5-6 rating) for all three; improvements can be made in all areas. Physically I am in pretty good health, despite having asbestosis (pleural thickening of the lungs) and not on any prescriptions for any physiological problems. I contribute this state from positive thinking, and believing laughter is the best medicine; which ties into my psychological health. Mentally looking at the glass as half full instead of half empty lets me see the positive of most situations, instead of the negative. Negativity saps my strength. As for the spiritual health (not to be confused with my religious belief system) this is the one I need to work on the most. I sometimes let my emotions sway my mood. Finding the assertive line instead of tipping over onto the aggressive side; can sometimes become a challenge when things do not change or get corrected in what I think is a timely manner. Patience is a virtue, and is my weakest attribute.
My first goal is to improve my patience level and keep it closer to my positive thinking. I truly believe there is a silver lining to every cloud; I just have to find it. A physical goal is to keep doing what the doc says for my lungs and to believe that my mind can assist in slowing down the disease.
Walking with my buddy gives me accountability for part of the physical goal. Using my journal as a tool for the mental improvements; I like using the pros/con column for decision making. Journaling can also let me vent and then take a step back and get to the patience side of the problem. Loving-kindness lessens the “me” thinking; intentionally including others that are not in my immediate family opens the heart to more positive emotions.
While listening to The Crime of the Century I kept thinking about what all I had to do and could not really relax. Just to sit and meditate is okay but not something I would look forward to; I would much prefer to let my mind wonder on thoughts that pertain to do with my life, without judgment, while doing a menial task. For example, while gardening, I get very relaxed playing in the dirt, taking care of the plants and think outside the box on anything and everything. For me, to sit and listen to someone telling me to breathe and tell myself I have a meaningful purpose is not relaxing.
What is your favorite way to relax the mind/body?
Deb C
Deb,
ReplyDeleteI think your honesty is wonderful. It is nice to hear of someone not taking medication as a quick fix, but rather using the power of the mind to help.
I also like your glass half full optimism. I agree that this is a good way to go through life. About 2.5 years ago, my sister was killed in an auto accident. This was a very difficult time for me, but I chose to use this experience as one to grow from instead of being crippled by it.
As for your thoughts on the relaxation listening exercise, they do work for me. I do however, know exactly what you mean about having your hands in the dirt. I can not think of a better way to relax than working in the garden except maybe being in solitude on the beach with the shining sun and lapping waves.
Rose
Hi Rose,
DeleteI am so sorry to hear about your sister. I lost my best friend a little over 2 years ago and miss her terrible. We had been best friends since infancy so I understand the type of pain you are feeling. You are right about not letting it cripple you. I know my best friend would be appalled if I didn't continue on with life. I am involved with her kids and grandkids and get to watch the little girls sometimes. Kids have a way of keeping a person young at heart. Take Care, Deb
Deb, I completely understand about listening to relaxation. I had a very hard time listening the first day, the second unit got better and this unit was even better. The only problem I have with the listening is that I always fall asleep before it finishes. Something I do not have time for at 7 oclock at night. I have homework to do at this time. I cannot imagine having the disease you have, or how I would even deal with it. Honestly, I probably would cry everyday. My son has Alopecia Areata and I have a hard enough time dealing with his hair loss, which seems small compared to your disease. I hope that the treatments you recieve from the physicians help you to get better. How did you get it anyway? Good luck to you.
ReplyDelete