A Report of a Different Kind
It's been quite a revolutionary week in my world. On Wednesday I went to London to attend the start of a programme of treatment for ME at the Optimum Health Clinic. It's just over five years since I was diagnosed this time around and lots of things slotted in to place to make this the time for this action for me.
It was a totally amazing and inspiring experience and I am feeling confident that they have the answers to what has been happening for me - if this is something that affects you or anyone you know I'd really recommend you have a read of their materials. Of course everyone is different and needs to find the right path to recovery for them but they recognise this and are successfully treating a lot of people diagnosed with ME/CFS/Fibromyalgia through their holistic, integrated approach and I am so pleased that I am now amongst the patients on their books. Briefly, as I understand it, what it seems is going on for me is an initial multi-system burnout caused by multiple factors with recovery being hampered by a maladaptive stress response preventing my body spending enough time in the healing state.
It's early days but I have already learnt some wonderful lessons about coping with the stresses of this illness or process and modern life. We are designed to deal with acute stress but the overload and ME has created a chronic stress state for me to live in, the opposite of where I need to be The core things for me - be present in the moment, take it easy on myself and let my body do its stuff. I'm looking forward to the next months as I learn more about loving myself and try new ways of healing including meditation, some consistent yoga practice and above all - HAVING FUN :o)If I need any inspiration I'll be sure to have a look at the Panda: living in the moment, resting and having fun is just her bag. She even seems to be going in for the yoga.
Comments
Take very great care of yourself!
Firstly I didn't realise you were diagnosed ME 5 years ago. There was a really good radio 4 (I think - or may be it was radio 2) programme on ME few weeks back and I thought it was very educational.
I am very happy to hear that your visit was inspirational and gave you lots of energy.
Love the kitty images :D So cute!
Hang in there Sarah! Sending you lots of positive vibes. :D
x
Kyoko
A friend asked me the other day to describe "burnout" - I couldn't do ti but you've done an excellent job - thanks. Apparently I have not properly recovered from CFS in 1992 and am on an "enforced" sabbatical until April (assuming the doctor thnks I am well enough to return to work then).
Again thanks for an exellent post.