Your Magenta Monday Magic.
I’m writing this the week of November 11th, two weeks after I returned from spending a fabulous 2 weeks in Italy. Despite all the planes, trains, and automobiles, the hard Italian mattresses, and the flat-as-a-pancake pillows I encountered, my chronic back and neck issues didn’t materialize. I even received an excellent review from my chiropractor upon my return.
Needless to say, I was thrilled (and so proud!) to get a gold star. 🤗
Fast forward to a week later, and my lower back went out.
Ugh. I went too hard at the gym (after taking all that time off for my vacation), and then later that day, spent 2 hours sitting in my hair stylist’s chair. When I finally stood up, my back seized up instantly, and I knew I was in trouble. This was just another reminder of the ongoing health and wellness challenges that can pop up unexpectedly, even when we think we’re taking good care of ourselves.
Not only that, but during my appointment, I pulled out my iPad to read, and a few pages in, I noticed the tell-tale squiggles of an impending migraine. I don’t get them often, and I’m grateful that they don’t usually leave me debilitated and flat on my back in a dark room like so many women – most of whom are in some stage of menopause. But this was another health and wellness challenge I needed to face.
I made it home just as my head began to throb and all I could think about was lying down. Which I did. While I felt some relief when I finally got up, it was still abundantly clear that my back was tweaked and my headache persisted. These health and wellness challenges were certainly inconvenient but served as important reminders.
Well, at least my hair looked fabulous! 🙄
Compared to some, this was a very minor episode, one which I’ll hopefully recover from in a week or so. I honestly believe that these ‘small inconveniences’ serve to remind me that I have the luxury of spending most of my days free from pain and illness.
It made me realize how grateful I am to have my health on a day-in, day-out basis.
It also reminded me that despite our best efforts to prevent illness and injury, shit happens – especially as we hit this magical, midlife stage.
These health and wellness challenges are part of life, and learning how to respond to them is key.
I also think it’s no accident that this all happened during the week I am writing about prioritizing health!
Monday Mindshift
It’s the 1° shift that makes the biggest difference over time.
What do you do when faced with illness or injury? Do you ‘suck it up’ like we were taught? Do you put yourself on the back burner…again?
One of the things that I’ve been practicing is how to listen to my body. When it needs rest, I rest. Yes, sometimes there are things that need doing, but I do my best to prioritize those and postpone or cancel the balance so I can take care of myself.
Let’s face it, in a society built on GSD (gettin’ shit done), it feels selfish to say “I can’t today, but I’ll give you a call tomorrow,” so you can take the time you need to refuel. But we all know what happens when we’re pushed to the limit: we become anything but intentional.
We react instead of responding, and we often end up saying things we might not mean.
And, worst of all? We risk doing more damage to our health by not taking care of the problem when it arises. These seemingly small health and wellness challenges can snowball into larger issues if ignored.
So, the next time your body is screaming for attention – whether you’re thirsty, hungry, exhausted, or ill – give it the love it needs so it can continue to be strong and healthy for you. ❤️🩹
Living BRIGHTer is...
B - Be Brave
R - Cultivate Relationships
I - Live with Intention
G - Practice Gratitude
H - Prioritize Health
T - Live your Truth
What is Magenta?
The color magenta is one of universal harmony and emotional balance. It is spiritual yet practical, encouraging common sense and a balanced outlook on life. Magenta helps to create harmony and balance in every aspect of life; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
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