What’s Your Plan to Be Well Anyway?
Earlier this week, I got a diagnosis based on MRI results that confirmed the vascular damage COVID has done to my brain. On one hand, this is deeply upsetting. On the other hand, it is simply a confirmation of the physiological cause of my ongoing symptoms.
When I was told by my neurologist that Western medical science currently does not know the way to cure my condition, and that it would be progressive, I could have sank into the familiar darkness of despair. I was certainly tempted to do so, but this is not the first time in my life I have been told a condition is incurable only to have found a way to heal it. So, with a surprising sense of calm, I said to my doctor, “That just means I have to find the way.”
Drawing on previous experiences, current research, my team of holistic healthcare professionals, and ancient well-being practices, I have implemented a plan to be well anyway. This plan is not denial. I know what is happening and what may happen. Simultaneously, I know with certainty that God can heal in myriad and mysterious ways, especially when I do my part with healthy lifestyle choices, including rest, nutritious food, sunshine, time in nature, movement, social connection, music, daily meditation, forgiveness, and gratitude. If I practice these, whether or not I am cured one day, I can be well in the midst of each day.
What about you? Is there something external or internal that is causing you “dis-ease” and threatening your peace of mind? Are you feeling victimized by the actions or inactions of others, tempted to sink into despair? I invite you to choose, with me, a different way – a way of being inspired and defined by our faith in the possibility of a different future rather than our present pain.
You can start with this short practice: Find a quiet place. Sit or lay down in a comfortable position. Set a timer for 5 minutes. Close your eyes. Breathe deeply and slowly, in and out of your heart center. Picture yourself vibrantly and fully alive and well. Allow feelings of joy and gratitude and goodness to bubble up, overflow, and saturate every aspect of your being. Soak in this experience, giving your brain a roadmap to your preferred future. Bless yourself. Forgive yourself. Love yourself. Surrender the outcome to God. Pray, “This or better, Lord…thank you.”
Roxanne is an ordained minister, behavioral health professional, yogini, friend, wife, mother, and brand new “Grammie” who is fascinated and inspired by the impact of spirituality on health. She has begun practicing daily, healing-focused meditations, and, while this practice has yet to affect her medical conditions, her loved ones report that it is making her a much more pleasant person to be around in the mornings!