Understanding the Mind & Body Connection is one of the most overlooked aspects to healing any chronic disease. We’ve all heard the term “Mind over Matter.” There is a lot of truth to that statement.
If you are defeated in your mind, you will be defeated in your body in time.
I’ve come to the realization that if there is one positive thing this disease does, it teaches us the importance of taking care of ourselves. And I don’t just mean, go to the doctor, take your meds, “eat right” (whatever that means for you), and do what the “experts” say. It’s much more complex than this.
Let’s start by asking what exactly is “health?” Most of us think it is a state of perfect physical attainment, somehow related to diet and physical exercise. That plays a part, sure, but that’s not quite it.
Health is a fluctuating gauge of where we presently are physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, spiritually, and otherwise.
Nutrition and exercise can help restore balance and health, but without addressing the overall person, it is limited. At the same time, addressing the other less tangible aspects and ignoring the quality of food and environment and how it works in the body also creates imbalance, ill-health, and ultimately a weakened immune system.
Unfortunately, our medical and nutritional professionals focus too much on the “mechanical” aspect of the body. They ignore the fact that the state of health and the body is interdependent on the state of mind and emotional well-being; our environment and social structure; our stress levels and our relationships.
All of these aspects coexist as a delicate and interconnected web that can create a feeling of well-being, or a feeling of dis-ease. Where one is imbalanced, the others become imbalanced. Where one is healing, the others move towards healing. It is important to understand that we are complex beings. We are not separate components that are not related. This is crucial for healing any illness and preventing future ailments.
When it comes to Lyme disease, nutrition and overall health are a very important part of prevention, treatment, and ultimately, success. You must consciously pay attention to what and how you eat; the timing of medications; the supplements you take; the water you drink; detoxing; sleep and relaxation; your mental and emotional state; and all facets of your mind and body in order to be successful in beating this disease.
The question is:
How do you define Success and what color glasses do you see the world through?
If we perceive life without judgment, without expectation, and without fear or regret; we perceive it as it truly is, nothing more, nothing less.
If we live in the present moment and find gratitude, we live in peace; despite our outward experience.