That darn “Wake Up Call” reared its head again! You know, a health crisis that got my attention one more time. I’ve had quite a few calls in my life and I always try to “embrace the message” and what my body is telling me. But you shouldn’t have to have a crisis to remind you that your life and health are out of balance!
Last week, my back seized up and I literally couldn’t move because of the pain. After about 24 hours of immobility, I finally gave in and had to call the paramedics to take me to the ER—how embarrassing! And why are paramedics always so good looking and so compassionate? It makes it even more embarrassing to be so helpless and vulnerable in front of them!
The truth is, most of us go through our lives pushing ourselves hard, ignoring the constant stress and worry that wreaks havoc on our bodies and mind. We keep going until the “call” comes and takes us down a notch or two and forces us to wake up— again.
This is even more embarrassing for a holistic healer! Healthcare professionals are the worst! We are so good at taking care of others, yet when it comes to taking care of ourselves, we seem to have brain farts.
I did all the wrong things when I felt my back giving me a twinge of discomfort. I was moving (again), lifting heavy boxes, rushing around, stressed, dehydrated, etc. So I sat in the Jacuzzi and had the jet pounding my back like a jack hammer. It felt great, so I continued lifting things until I felt a big twinge—that got my attention. So I promptly decided to relax and watch 2 movies back to back on an uncomfortable couch, then fall asleep with ice on my back. And bam! I woke up in the morning and couldn’t move. Dumb!
This time I really did it. I know there’s some damage in my spine, so now I am the patient in the crazy medical system waiting for an MRI, taking pain medication to get by, and facing the long road ahead to healing my back. Fortunately, I have many holistic healers in my life who can help me recover with more natural methods and I am forced to take the time to slow down and heal.
I shared this as a reminder. I try to be honest and transparent: even though I am a healer, I am human and forget to pay attention to the signs. Please don’t wait for a health crisis to look at your unbalanced life and what it’s doing to your health. Please embrace the messages. This is your short life—live it in good health so you can enjoy the adventures!