Radical Self Care

Self-Care

Today, the world seems to get crazier and crazier.

Taking care of oneself myself feel like a conundrum—yet self-care is essential. Creating an inner feedback loop that reshapes old patterns and stimulates new attitudes is paramount to moving beyond my past criticism and cultivating self-compassion.  

Fostering non-judgmental behaviors motivates me to lessen my pain and encourages greater well-being. Developing and wiring this internal feedback loop can be thought of as flipping on my inner light switch.  

One example of how coaching can help develop this is through the body–mind connection. You might be asking, “Why would coaching help me with fibromyalgia?” The answer lies in the feedback loop between body and mind. Pain creates physical stress, which releases stress hormones. These hormones, in turn, affect mood and contribute to depression, trauma, and anxiety. A cycle is formed: pain feeds stress, and stress feeds pain.  

For many with fibromyalgia, prior life experiences of stress, anxiety, or trauma intensify this loop. Even for those without such a history, the pain and discomfort—combined with the difficulty of obtaining a diagnosis and appropriate treatment—can itself create feelings of trauma, depression, and anxiety.*  

Much of my life has been filled with negative self-talk and unskillful thoughts that distract, deter, or diminish my happiness. What I welcome now is the presence of people and environments that encourage more illuminating ways of being and thinking.  

As a tennis teacher, I have long coached others in how to accomplish this shift—whether in match play or recreational practice. My challenge has always been: how do I boost motivation and make instructional time both enjoyable and productive? 

When I focus on form rather then outcome I shift to a higher plane of experience.

I now find myself at a threshold. I can continue to let negativity deepen my suffering, or I can explore new ways to manage anxiety and celebrate life. It is my choice whether my remaining time here is hellish or heavenly.
Just a simple act of counting my blessings transforms me
 
May I benefit from creating a more supportive way of being!


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