Thriving Through Challenges: Redefining Health and Wellness
My Journey in Health and Wellness
With over a decade of experience as a personal trainer and fitness coach, I have always valued health and fitness. It has been an integral part of my life, shaping my identity and giving me purpose. However, my journey took a challenging turn when I was diagnosed with PTSD and anxiety, conditions that stemmed from unhealed childhood trauma. These mental health struggles eventually manifested physically, leading to a number of health issues that left me scarred for life and unable to continue my journey as a trainer or fitness coach.
My health challenges didn’t stop there. After being diagnosed with both Graves' disease and Hashitoxicosis, I underwent thyroid removal surgery. The thyroid is often referred to as the powerhouse of the body, and losing it meant I had to find a new normal when it came to my health and fitness. There were many days when I struggled to adapt, feeling as if I was at a standstill.
Finding a New Normal
Despite these setbacks, I refused to give up entirely. I knew that doing so would only worsen my condition. Instead, I made the conscious decision to keep moving forward, little by little, each day. I began working towards a new routine that, while different from what I was used to, helped me stay strong and energetic. I realized that my journey would be a continuous struggle with my health conditions, but it would be far worse if I gave up and did nothing.
Overcoming Mental and Emotional Blocks
For those struggling with similar issues, it’s important to recognize that facing adversity in health and wellness doesn’t mean the end of your journey. It simply means that you need to shift gears and realign your goals. Here are some ways to overcome the mental and emotional blocks that come with health challenges:
Acceptance: Accept that your health condition is a part of your life now. This doesn’t mean giving up, but rather acknowledging your current reality so you can move forward.
Patience: Understand that progress may be slower than before. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories.
Adaptability: Learn what your body can tolerate and adjust your routines accordingly. Just because you can’t do things the way you used to doesn’t mean you can’t do them at all.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness to stay present and focused. This can help reduce anxiety and improve your overall well-being.
Support: Seek support from friends, family, or a support group. Sharing your journey with others can provide encouragement and motivation.
Shifting Gears and Realigning Goals
In my new routine, I’ve learned to simplify things while keeping them effective. I have to be careful not to overdo it when it comes to workouts, as pushing too hard can leave me down for days. I used to be able to go, go, go all day, but now I prioritize balance and moderation.
Here are some strategies I’ve found helpful in creating a sustainable health and wellness routine:
Low-Impact Exercise: Incorporate low-impact exercises such as walking, pilates, or barre. These activities are gentle on the body but still provide great benefits.
Strength Training: Focus on strength training with light weights or resistance bands. This helps maintain muscle mass and support overall health.
Nutrition: Pay attention to your diet. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help manage symptoms and improve energy levels.
Rest: Allow yourself adequate rest and recovery time. Listen to your body and don’t push beyond your limits.
Faith and Spirituality: Lean on your faith and spiritual practices for strength and guidance. This can provide a sense of purpose and peace amidst the challenges.
The Role of Faith in Health and Wellness
As a faith-based holistic life coach, my journey is deeply intertwined with my faith. I believe that God calls us to take care of our bodies, treating them as temples of the Holy Spirit. This perspective has been a guiding light throughout my health challenges. Here’s how faith plays a crucial role in maintaining health and wellness:
Purpose and Motivation: Believing that our bodies are sacred and meant to serve a higher purpose gives us the motivation to maintain our health. It encourages us to make choices that honor God and the gift of life He has given us.
Strength in Adversity: Faith provides a source of strength during difficult times. When faced with health challenges, turning to God in prayer and meditation can offer comfort and the resilience needed to keep moving forward.
Holistic Approach: Faith encourages a holistic approach to health, considering not just the physical but also the mental and spiritual aspects. This aligns perfectly with the concept of holistic wellness, promoting balance and harmony in all areas of life.
Community and Support: Faith communities can provide a strong support system. Engaging with others who share your beliefs can offer encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging, all of which are vital for maintaining health and wellness.
Gratitude and Mindfulness: Faith teaches us to be grateful for our bodies and the abilities we have, no matter how limited they may be. Practicing gratitude and mindfulness helps us stay positive and focused on what we can do, rather than what we cannot.
Biblical Verses for Health and Wellness
1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NIV): "Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."
This verse reminds us of the sacredness of our bodies. Recognizing that we are stewards of our health motivates us to treat our bodies with care and respect. By honoring God through healthy choices, we acknowledge the divine purpose for which we were created.
Philippians 4:13 (NIV): "I can do all this through him who gives me strength."
This verse speaks to the strength we can draw from our faith in God, especially during challenging times. It reassures us that, despite our health struggles, we can find the resilience to overcome obstacles through divine support. It encourages us to rely on God for strength in our wellness journey.
My journey in health and wellness has been a testament to resilience and adaptability. Despite the setbacks, I’ve learned to embrace my new normal and continue striving for health and wellness. Remember, just because it isn’t going the way it did before doesn’t mean it can’t be done. By shifting gears and realigning our goals, we can find a path forward that honors our current reality while still striving for wellness.
Stay strong, stay motivated, and keep moving forward. There is always a way; you just have to find it.