Say it with me:
I AM BIGGER THAN GRAVES DISEASE!
I am taking my power back!!
If you’re anything like me, you might understand the struggles of living with Graves disease.
(Or any autoimmune disease.)
Every day is different from the last, and you know that every coming day will be unpredictably different too. I have spent many of my days feeling the lowest of lows (in pain, too fatigued to get out of bed or move my body, depressed, anxious, scared, insecure), days that I feel OK, and those days few and far between where I actually feel good, where I feel strong and even powerful; physically, mentally, emotionally. When I began to accept this constant flux, things began to flow. It is truly a lesson of impermanence.
The unpredictable nature of the condition, marked by fluctuating symptoms and responses, serves as a poignant reminder that circumstances are ever-changing. Embracing this reality can be a powerful catalyst for cultivating resilience, adaptability, and a deeper appreciation for the present moment.
In the journey of Graves’ Disease, people learn to navigate the ebb and flow of their health, recognizing that today’s challenges may not define tomorrow’s experiences. This lesson in impermanence encourages a mindset of flexibility and a capacity to respond gracefully to the uncertainties inherent in managing a chronic condition. It is our opportunity to transform our pain into medicine, for ourselves and others.
As we face the unpredictable nature of Graves’ Disease, we can develop a profound awareness of the impermanence not only of health but of life itself. This heightened awareness can inspire a reevaluation of priorities, fostering a focus on what truly matters and encouraging the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life despite the challenges presented by the condition.
In essence, Graves’ Disease becomes a teacher, guiding us to find strength in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of our health. Through this process, people may discover a resilient spirit that not only copes with the challenges of the present but also embraces the impermanence of life with a newfound sense of purpose and appreciation for each moment.
Taking your power back from Graves’ Disease involves a holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental well-being:
- Education and Understanding: Arm yourself with knowledge about Graves’ Disease. Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and treatment options empowers you to actively participate in your care and decision-making process. PubMed is a great resource!
- Build a Support System: Cultivate a strong support network comprising friends, family, and healthcare professionals. Open communication and sharing your experiences can alleviate the emotional burden and provide practical assistance when needed.
- Mind-Body Practices: Incorporate stress-reducing practices such as mindfulness, meditation, reiki and deep breathing into your daily routine. Managing stress is crucial, as it can influence the course of Graves’ Disease and contribute to overall well-being. Consistency is key. Give yourself this gift.
- Nutritional Awareness: Work with healthcare professionals, including nutritionists, to develop a balanced diet that supports thyroid health. Understanding how certain foods may impact your condition allows you to make informed dietary choices. Support your body with optimized nutrition, proper hydration, movement and light exercise, vitamin and mineral supplements, nutraceuticals, herbs and teas.
- Regular Monitoring: Stay proactive in managing your health by attending regular check-ups and monitoring your thyroid function. This empowers you to catch any changes early and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Keep a journal, log, or note of when you experience certain symptoms and any potential triggers.
- Advocate for Yourself: Be an active participant in your healthcare. Communicate openly with your healthcare team, voice your concerns, and actively engage in decisions regarding your treatment. Get a second opinion if something doesnt feel right, or you feel like you’re not being heard. Your insights into your own body are invaluable. Listen to your body.
- Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable short-term and long-term goals for your health and well-being. Breaking down larger objectives into smaller, manageable steps can make the journey more manageable and provide a sense of accomplishment. Set aside time for your daily practices & try your best to approach them with consistency.
- Embrace Self-Care and Compassion: Prioritize self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading, journaling, yoga, reiki, various hobbies, or spending time in nature, taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is essential in navigating the challenges of Graves’ Disease. Be gentle, kind, and loving with yourself. You are doing the best you can.
- Seek Professional Support: Consider therapy or counseling to address the emotional impact of living with a chronic condition. Mental health professionals can provide coping strategies, emotional support, and help you navigate the psychological aspects of Graves’ Disease.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate the small victories in your health journey. Whether it’s successfully managing symptoms or adhering to treatment, recognizing your achievements fosters a positive mindset and reinforces your resilience.
- Practice Radical Acceptance: Acknowledge the realities of the condition and embrace a mindset that focuses on adapting to its challenges rather than resisting them. Through acceptance you can find peace, self-love, and the strength to navigate the unpredictable nature of your health, fostering a sense of empowerment and a foundation for holistic well-being.
- Present Moment Awareness: Living in this moment, the only moment that exists, takes away the pain of yesterday and the uncertainty of tomorrow. Give yourself the gift of presence and watch your life begin to shift into a flow state. Shift from surviving to thriving!
Remember, taking your power back is an ongoing process that requires patience and self-compassion. By adopting a proactive and comprehensive approach to your physical and mental well-being, you can regain a sense of control and live a fulfilling life despite Graves’ Disease.
If you are interested in 1:1 support from someone who has been in your shoes and can relate on a personal level, click here to book a free discovery call with me to see how we can work together to support your Graves with a root-cause focused, holistic functional health approach, as well as mindfulness practice. 🙂
You got this.
I BELIEVE IN YOU.
With love,
Elena
This is not medical advice. For informational purposes only.