Embracing Rest: A Vital Step in Healing

The Tension Between Activity and Recovery

Dealing with Achalasia adds complexity to finding time for rest. My journey began in late winter with a diagnosis that changed my life forever. By late May, I underwent a POEM procedure in hopes of finding relief. However, recovery has proven difficult due to complications like esophageal spasms, which led to frequent visits to Massachusetts General Hospital. This stress has made it hard to rest. Recovery typically follows a prescribed path, but interruptions and negative reactions to treatment can cause anxiety and frustration, making rest feel counterintuitive.

Just last Monday, I was full of energy. I styled my hair, put on makeup, dressed up, cleaned my house, managed salon tasks, conducted interviews, and drove to Worcester to pick up Casey. It felt like an accomplishment! But as the saying goes, "too much of a good thing can be harmful." The crash came swiftly.

The next day, I experienced painful esophageal spasms along with devastating fatigue. This cycle of highs and lows is common among those with chronic health issues, reminding us that overexertion can counteract recovery progress.

The Emotional Toll of Illness

In our society, there is a tendency to equate self-worth with busyness, linking productivity to personal value. This mindset makes it difficult for someone like me—who is used to being available to clients and friends—to allow myself to rest.

The conflict between my health and my role as a service provider creates tension. The decision to reduce my schedule from fully booked to half felt practical, but it also felt like losing a part of myself. This led to feelings of guilt and inadequacy, stemming from the fear of disappointing clients or falling behind at work.

During my numerous hospital visits, I've faced both physical and emotional challenges. Nurses have become my heroes, providing comfort and care. However, I often feel empathy fatigue, especially toward dramatic ER patients. Once, I observed a woman unraveling in distress every twenty minutes for nine hours—no exaggeration.

These experiences shed light on our fragility and the importance of self-advocacy. I once told my gastroenterologist about my persistent pain, but his advice to drink warm water felt inadequate. Despite the support from Massachusetts General Hospital, I know that women's pain is often overlooked. I am living proof of that.

The Importance of Support Networks

During tough times, the significance of support networks becomes glaringly clear. I've been fortunate to have friends and family who consistently encourage me to slow down. Their gentle reminders to prioritize self-care are invaluable. Rest is not just inactivity; it’s a chance to recalibrate what truly matters.

This chapter of my life has prompted me to lean on those I cherish. It reignites personal connections and helps me appreciate simple joys—like revisiting favorite shows during hospital stays. Who knew that a familiar face from The Pit would offer comfort during such trying times? If you didn't watch ER in the 90s... who are you?

The Path Ahead: Finding Balance

In my industry, pushing through fatigue is the norm. However, embracing rest can lead to a more sustainable and active life. I envision a future full of client interactions, weekends at the beach, spontaneous dances, and joyful yoga sessions. Yet, to achieve this, I must first accept the stillness currently present in my life.

This is a pretty accurate image of my room. Observation and Bigelow doesn't play around;)

Rest is akin to a secret weapon in your self-care toolkit, helping you tackle life's curveballs without feeling guilty. It's the ultimate combination of healing and happiness! Balancing self-care and service requires mastering the art of being a couch potato, allowing you to bounce back like a champ.

If you're floundering, like me, remember to give your body a high-five with some downtime. True strength is all about pampering yourself while juggling life's chaos! Embracing rest and understanding its value can genuinely transform your approach to healing and overall well-being. You deserve it.