Bring Comfort to Your Recovery Journey

Feeling lousy is about one of the worst things that can happen to a person! I know after having to undergo chemotherapy a decade ago with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Last fall, I had a lousy feeling return and it lasted for months. I went into the rabbit hole of endless doctors appointments to try to pin what could be wrong. Acid reflux, IBS, or Sjogren’s Syndrome... and so it went. There was a deep-down knowing that, yes, it could be digestive or autoimmune, but I pressed my doctor for more testing. This time I wanted an ultrasound of my reproductive system. It was the culprit, and after months of testing, I was scheduled for surgery in the new year. My outcome was great, and no signs of any life threatening diseases! After 4 - 6 weeks of recovery, I feel it is important to share my experience with others on healing and helpful techniques that aided greatly with my recovery time.

Create a Room for Healing

Whether this area is your bedroom or a spare bedroom, it is important to set up an area for rest with your favorite pictures or art, diffuser with favorite oils, Himalayan salt lamp, pillows and blankets. Items that only bring joy and happiness! I personally transformed my spare bedroom, due to the fact that I do not like the light fixtures on my bedroom ceiling, and did not want to get bummed out staring at them. You get my point with this one—healing and joyful things bring a feeling of love, comfort and calm.

Color Therapy

Color is everywhere around us, but we don't often stop and think about the colors around us and how they make us feel. Surround yourself with healing colors like blue, green, pink or purple, to name a few. I also personally did a lot of coloring. Yep, you're read that right! The adult coloring book trend exploded a few years back, and once again I had to retract my nay saying ways! I found it a afternoon activity to help with anxiety and restlessness.

Music

Calming music in the afternoon like ocean waves reminded me of the warmth of a sunny, sandy beach. Think of sounds that relax you or bring you to a positive memory like wind chimes or a running river. I found playing music to relax in the afternoon had a way more positive effect than watching TV.

Meditation Apps 

We always hear that we should meditate, but many of us are not sure how to start or for how long. Find the app or a source that works for you, from meditative music to guided imagery or meditations. It truly is amazing to make space for new, healing thoughts. Self love really does rule!!