In unit 3 I believed myself to be rated no higher than a 5 physically mainly due to the immense pain I was experiencing at time. I believed that was primarily due to the fact that we had just returned from travelling to my sister's wedding in Illinois. It was almost 1,000 miles each way. Also, there were less gluten-free options that contributed to the amount of nerve pain. The pain was intense.
Since that point the pain was significantly lessened since I have been able to sustain from eating foods that contain gluten. I also have been able to keep from getting so tight for the most part since I have more opportunity to stretch, I am not travelling long distances, and I receive massages. Last week I graded myself physically with a score of a 7. I believe that still stands.
Psychologically, I mentioned that I was up and down. I still believe that to be true, but for different reasons. I believe the reasons now also played a part before. Sometimes I feel like real life is battling what I am learning in this class. I guess if there is any time to learn meditation and relaxation, or skills to help calm me and cope better it might as well be during a time when life stresses hit the fan hard.
I visited my naturopathic doctor the other day with my main complaint being weak and exhausted. I already thought it could be stress related and she just confirmed that stating that I am constantly in the fight or flight mode. I mentioned the meditations and she said she would understand if I was not able to get the best results from meditating in the current situation, but to continue doing them daily for at least five minutes. Optimally, that is a good start, but I do want to increase that time as time goes on. Honestly I feel less down than I do up at this point.
Spiritually, about the same. I am still working on the weekends, so church has been pretty much out. I have made it on Wednesday nights from time to time for fellowship with other believers, and friends that I had not seen in awhile because of my schedule. However, with the meditations, journaling and prayer I feel connected. I have found it amazing the spiritual connection that I sense during the meditations.
I have been continuing couples' counseling. I have been exercising at least once a week even if it is just a short walk. I still see the osteopathic doctor pretty regularly. I saw my chiropractor last week because of really bad headaches. The crane making is under way and I still reach the meditative state while making them. So, in all actuality I could meditate for long periods of time. Lastly, I will start singing in the choir again once I can return to Sunday morning services.
Psychologically I am lagging. In some areas I have increased, especially my physical and spiritual outlook. I look forward to the time when I can relax, really enjoy life again, because the stress will not be such a heavy burden. Then I my life will be more well rounded and I can experience the stillness and calm on an everyday basis.
