Empowered Healing: Reclaiming Life with Wondrous New Perspectives
Change can be a dirty word for many, and fighting changes may make us feel stuck and miserable. When we resist change, we risk feeling trapped on a never-ending hamster wheel, making no progress, and can often be the cause of disease in the body. Life frequently presents challenges that force us to shake things up; for some, that challenge might be the daunting word – cancer.
Most mornings, I wonder if life will ever return to “normal”. Despite going through daily life and engaging in physiotherapy, I sometimes want to hide under the covers and avoid facing the day. Even with my background in personal development, I still encounter moments of frustration and doubt, but I know that consistency in small daily actions is vital to seeing progress.
It all began when I discovered a lump in my throat. Initially dismissing it as a muscle strain from the gym, I eventually received the devastating diagnosis – cancer.
The news felt like the doctor had hit me from behind with a cricket bat – Cancer. OMG, it can’t be! Like many women, my immediate reaction was to enter fix-it mode. Biopsies, consultations with surgeons, and before I knew it, I was booked in for surgery within two months.
I naively believed that the surgery would remove the cancer, a few inconsequential neck muscles, and part of the collarbone, and after six weeks of radiation, I would return to normal within three months. Life would resume as usual.
Fast forward nearly three years, and I’m still grappling with mobility issues from the surgery. As it turns out, those “inconsequential” neck muscles are essential for holding up one’s head. Who would have thought?
Cancer changes lives. It forces us to reflect on life and decide whether to stay on the same path or make changes.
Throughout my cancer journey, I’ve been constantly adapting and making improvements. However, progress often feels frustratingly slow, like being stuck on a hamster wheel.
We’ve all heard the tale of the rabbit and the turtle, where steady progress triumphs over speed. I’ve come to realize that slow, consistent progress leads to success. I can’t afford to nap like a rabbit; I must keep strengthening my body despite the challenges.
When life feels stagnant, stepping in a new direction can be the key to breaking free from that hamster wheel.
Every day, I diligently engage in physiotherapy, gradually increasing the intensity under the guidance of my physiotherapist. Furthermore, in addition to my physiotherapy routine, I have also progressed to incorporating other forms of rehabilitation. I’ve returned to the gym, albeit cautiously, and have introduced alternative therapies, such as scar massage, to address the radiation damage. With 22 lymph nodes removed, lymphatic massage has become an essential part of my healing journey. Though the progress may seem slow, these small steps hold immense power. Tiny changes are more accessible to incorporate into our lives and guarantee forward motion.
But how does one begin taking these small steps? Don’t underestimate the power of the mind.
Mindset Work: The Key to Empowered Healing and Recovery
Mindset work plays a significant role in the recovery process. If our mindset feels stuck in a state of self-pity or negativity, it can hinder our progress and lead to procrastination. Amidst the physical rehabilitation, Mindset work is just as crucial as that physical aspect. Addressing negative limiting beliefs that would creep into my mind, such as doubts about my survival, fighting the pain or fears of worsening radiation burns, proved to be pivotal. Reframing and refusing to buy into these beliefs, I healed faster and embraced a more positive outlook.
I consciously sought support from others trained in the same modalities as myself. Their guidance and encouragement helped me stay on track, releasing limiting beliefs and empowering me to reclaim my life.
Starting can be daunting but begins with a burning desire to change. In my case, I desire to reclaim my life and enjoy the simple pleasures I once took for granted. I’ve made it an integral part of my daily schedule to ensure I stick to my physical routines and continuously look at my mindset.
I’ve also established triggers – cues within my daily habits that prompt me to act. Integrating change into my routine has become second nature, whether doing a few physio exercises before getting out of bed or utilizing the time while waiting for the kettle to boil.
Additionally, rewarding myself serves as positive reinforcement, reminding me of the benefits of my efforts. After a challenging physical session, I treat myself to a relaxing massage, reinforcing that change brings rewards.
Furthermore, understanding my motives provides clarity and purpose. I envision a future where I can attend outings without neck pain and not be scared to drive my car for long distances.
Tracking my progress keeps me motivated. It reminds me of how far I’ve come and encourages me to keep pushing forward, no matter how challenging.
These small steps may seem insignificant, but collectively, they alleviate the mental burden and make it easier to stay committed. Minor, gradual adjustments yield more lasting and impactful results than sudden, dramatic overhauls, which can overwhelm an individual.
If disease has turned your life upside down, see it as an opportunity to transform it and make change a desirable pursuit rather than a daunting challenge.
Take the time to identify triggers, set up rewards, and clarify your motives. Tracking your progress and choosing to celebrate each milestone along the way is the best recipe for success.
The decision to break free from the hamster wheel rests in your hands. Seek support and guidance when needed but remember that you ultimately have the responsibility to act.
Are you ready to embrace the changes required so you can manifest the life of your dreams?
About the Author
Name: Karyn Del Mol
Professional Title: FOUNDER OF GOODNESSMEALTERNATIVE
Bio: Karyn is a qualified CPA Accountant with an extensive corporate career and many therapeutic qualifications. As an Empowerment Guide, Karyn founded Goodnessmealternative, finding her passion for empowering women and guiding them to overcome the beliefs and emotions that get in their way from success and holding them back from finding balance in life and feeling peace in their hearts and mind.
Karyn is also the co-author of the 10x multi-award-winning book Eating Secrets, which helps women to love and accept themselves and overcome emotional eating.
Book a call with Karyn when you are ready to act but need help to reclaim your life: promo.goodnessmealternative.com.au/freeassessment
Website: www.goodnessmealternative.com
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