No, You Don't Have To Push Through Your Pain

 The hardest part of my job is hearing my clients say that they had to push through their pain to get things done that day.

They felt so weak, tired, sick, or scared but had to push their needs aside to be present for their children and spouses, to be productive at work, or to run their businesses with the same customer service they provided before they became ill.

But the best part is when they discover they are stronger than they think. 

KNOW THE CHEMISTRY OF ILLNESS

There comes a point where chronic illness devastates the mind and body beyond our own limits. Chemically, things are changing, and neurons start misfiring in the brain. The body’s organs are overwhelmed, and a host of issues arise.

Chronic illness can have a range of effects on the brain, including changes in brain chemistry.

EXAMPLES:

Inflammation: Chronic illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic inflammation in the body. This inflammation can affect the brain by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain), such as serotonin and dopamine. Inflammation can also damage brain cells and disrupt the normal functioning of the brain.

Stress: Chronic illness can be a major source of stress, which can lead to changes in the brain's chemistry. Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. Over time, chronic stress can lead to dysregulation of the HPA axis and changes in the levels of neurotransmitters.

Sleep disturbances: Chronic illness can disrupt sleep, which can affect brain chemistry. Sleep is important for the brain to consolidate memories, process emotions, and repair itself. Disrupted sleep can lead to changes in neurotransmitter levels, impaired cognitive function, and mood disturbances.

Overall, chronic illness can have complex effects on brain chemistry, which can in turn affect a person's mood, cognition, and overall quality of life. The mind can no longer fully rationalize what is happening to the body and views daily tasks as just as challenging as climbing Mount Everest, but we are told to push through it to get the day's tasks done.

DON'T ACCEPT THE PAIN, FIND WHAT'S CAUSING IT

Most people are told to take unforgiving drugs like cortisone shots or gabapentin to alleviate pain, causing new symptoms, deep vitamin and mineral depletions, brain changes and damage, and so many other devastating consequences. People aren’t usually told how horribly taxing these can be on the body, especially with genetic mutations involved.

What I find interesting and alarming is that most doctors aren’t asking the simplest question to get their patients the help they need before prescribing medication. Rarely do they question, "what is causing my patients chronic pain in the first place?"

You can investigate or ask your holistic health care practitioner what avenues may possibly be best to find out what is the root cause of your pain.

WHY CONSIDER A HOLISTIC APPROACH?

Holistic medicine is an approach to healthcare that takes into account the whole person, including their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, rather than just treating specific symptoms or diseases. This approach to healthcare is based on the belief that a person's well-being is determined by a complex interplay of factors, and that addressing all of these factors can help promote healing and prevent chronic illness.

One reason why holistic medicine may be effective for chronic illness is that it can help identify the root cause of what is affecting the development and progression of the condition. For example, stress, poor nutrition, and lack of physical activity are all known risk factors for many chronic illnesses. By addressing these underlying issues through lifestyle changes, holistic medicine may be able to reduce the risk of chronic illness or help manage existing conditions.

Another reason why holistic medicine may be helpful for chronic illness is that it takes a personalized approach to healthcare. Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, holistic practitioners work with each individual to create a customized treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. This can help improve the effectiveness of treatment and may lead to better outcomes for people with chronic illness.

Additionally, holistic medicine often incorporates a range of complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine, which have been shown to have a beneficial effect on various health conditions. These therapies may help reduce pain, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being, which can be especially beneficial for people with chronic illness who may experience a range of symptoms.

Holistic medicine may be helpful for chronic illness because it takes a comprehensive approach to healthcare, addresses underlying issues, personalizes treatment, and incorporates a range of complementary therapies. 

HEAL THE PAIN INSTEAD OF PUSHING THROUGH IT

Once there is peace of mind about what is causing your chronic illness, you can finally begin to help yourself get through your day with appropriate protocols made for you as an individual.

THIS MAY LOOK LIKE:

• taking specific supplements or products to aid in pain management by reducing inflammation (such as glutathione, ACV, or clean CBD products),
• cognitive exercises
• mental and physical therapy methods based on your illness
• other helpful resources that target what is causing your illness.

Holistic approaches to healing chronic illness often involve a combination of complementary therapies, lifestyle changes, and alternative medicine.

COMMON HOLISTIC APPROACHES:

1. Acupuncture: This ancient Chinese practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to help balance the body's energy, known as Qi. Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in managing chronic pain, migraines, and other conditions.

2. Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on the present moment, without judgment. This practice has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can worsen chronic illness symptoms.

3. Nutritional therapy: Nutritional therapy involves using food as medicine to support the body's healing. Many chronic illnesses are linked to inflammation, so a diet that is rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help manage symptoms.

4. Yoga: Yoga combines physical postures, breathwork, and meditation to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. It has been shown to be effective in managing chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.

5. Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce stress, which can all contribute to managing chronic illness symptoms.

6. Specialized supplementation is also a great way to heal the body

If you're interested in exploring holistic approaches to healing chronic illness, it's important to work with a qualified practitioner who can help you develop a personalized plan.

WRAPPING IT ALL UP

Positivity and confidence in your ability to heal are imperative for getting through your day. Finding out what is causing your illness should be the first step toward alleviating symptoms so you don't have to push through the pain, and it should instill some confidence in your journey to good health.

Chronic illness can be incredibly challenging to manage, but a holistic approach that takes into account the whole person can be helpful in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. By working with a qualified practitioner and using a combination of complementary therapies, and lifestyle changes, you can take a proactive approach to managing your chronic illness and improving your quality of life.