It has been a while since I have written a post. In fact, I have had so much going on within my body and mind that I just don't know where or how to begin. So, I guess I will start from the top!
I had a flare. I was miserable and in quite a bit of pain for a couple of weeks. While in my flare, I engaged in self-reflection. This is what I learned:
I get hurt easily and working out with others at a gym is not an option for me. I try to keep up with the pace of those in the class and I always, always, always end up in physical therapy and stop exercising. Because of my disease it takes me a very long time to heal.
Yoga works for me. I have given myself permission to slow down and care for my body gently. 6 days ago I began doing a 30 minute yoga video every single morning. It's hard. There is nothing easy about it, but, it gently stretches and strengthens my body. I already feel a positive difference in this short amount of time.
Weights aren't so bad. I am also using free weights to work on my biceps, triceps, chest and back.
Crunches, well I still don't like those, but I am doing them every morning.
Cycling is the aerobic exercise for me. It's fun, gentle, and social.
Walking is also gentle. Having a small dog who enjoys going for walks keeps me inspired.
From time to time, especially when my joints are visibly swollen and I'm hurting, fatigued and feel sick all over, I question my decisions. It is in those painful times that my disease becomes very real to me. I question my choice to trust nutrition rather than pharmaceuticals. In this recent time of reflection I have realized that for now I am doing the right thing and will trust my decision to heal my body with nutrition. Flares happen even when taking meds, so I won't base my decision on my recent flare. If there ever comes a time when nutrition alone doesn't help me, I will definitely add a medication to prevent the crippling effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis. But, for now I'm at peace with where I am on my journey.
