In September we talked about comfort zones and growth. To be able to move from surviving to thriving, we have to be open to stretching ourselves, growing in new ways, and healing ourselves. Did you know that the word “heal” comes from the word “whole” which is why it is important to consider your whole self. For me, looking at healing my mind, body, and spirit has been critical. Many times, we try to suppress unpleasant things in our minds. My therapist says, “Your mind may forget, but your body always remembers.” This is so true. This suppressing not only affects our bodies but also our spirits. Suppressing emotional and mental pain leads to depression and anxiety which, in turn, can lead to other issues such as increased medical problems as well as substance abuse. To move through healthy change, we must embrace all of who we are and take slow but steady healing steps.

In my book, I share the story of when I passed the milestone of my 50th birthday and had to have a routine colonoscopy. Many of my friends who had already been through the procedure gave several tips on how to make the process as painless as possible. What I did not anticipate was my reaction when the physical pain from having the IV inserted into my arm tapped into repressed memories of other physical and emotional pain I had experienced previously. The last time I had an IV was during the time I went through a difficult shoulder surgery and my ex-husband left me. It was one of the worst years of my life. I had moved through the painful years following that experience, and I thought I was in a good place. But the thing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD) is that you don’t see the reaction coming. You don’t know what the trigger is. What you can do is slow down, process it and begin to rework those neural pathways.  Neural pathways can be deeply ingrained like a stream winding through the landscape for years wearing a ravine in the earth.  Like that stream, the course of its path can be altered but it requires intentional intervention.

In our October 15th blog we will help you explore ways to begin healing yourself- mind, body and spirit. 

I leave you with this quote from the book, Awakening the Light which was released today!  You can purchase it through our book tab or by clicking here:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070946

“I had not thought about having PTSD from that surgery episode six years ago, but it does make sense.  The experience tapped into my worst childhood fear (not being cared for or worthy) and I went through two incredibly hard years starting at that point.  To be able to slow down and acknowledge that connection and insight was incredibly healing which is what I hope for you.”

At Survivors to Thrivers, we are committed to encouraging and supporting you as you seek to embrace your healing and growth.  We would love to hear steps you have taken to heal yourself – mind, body, and spirit.  Please know we are here to cheer you on– every step of the way!