My Friday Five
Five things I've been implementing and exploring this week.
Book I’m Reading: The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love
The Many Lives of Mama Love was tough for me to read. I haven't been in jail, but I have put myself in similar confinement since my cancer diagnosis. Maybe you have something that holds you back from living the full life you want or expected to be living or had the trajectory of living. This book moved me and made me a better person and it has freed me. At first, I wasn’t sure what I would think of Lara Love. She was a drug-addicted mother of six, stealing from neighbors to fund her habit. I have had thousands of dollars stolen from me, and I may lack compassion for thieves. She was arrested and found redemption in jail (not prison). Kind of blah, blah, blah, but it was recommended by a friend I admire so I chose to give it a go. I could not have imagined I would have been so moved. I burst into tears when I read she was the editor of one of my favorite books. Her self-awareness, humor, and desire to be more than the worst thing she has done made me admire her. I learned from her. I wrote to Lara and the man who hired her after her release from jail. They are both beautiful people that I would love to know. I wrote to them and was very excited to hear back from Doug Abrams, who, as you know, wrote my favorite book, The Book of Joy. He recommended two more books I have already purchased.
Success Story: Email from a patient with gastric issues
Gail, don’t know if you’ll remember me, but I saw you 3 times last Fall. Was dealing with gastric issues, getting ready for a cruise, etc.
Anyway, I’ve been meaning to let you know that you helped me a great deal, especially that last visit. I’d taken meds, talked with a dietitian and more when you appeared at my Stroke Support Group and I decided to make an appointment. Whether it was all of the previous + the acupuncture, I can’t say for sure. All I do know is that after my last appointment with you, the gastric issues finally began to disappear. And I’m so thankful for that and how everything finally seemed to come together.
So I just wanted to say “thank you” for your help and let you know how much I appreciate you.
Quote, I'm meditating on:
Don’t raise your voice; improve your argument. - Desmond Tutu
Health Idea I’m Implementing: Nerve Flossing
Nerve flossing is a gentle set of exercises aimed at restoring natural neurodynamics. Nerves are not like muscles. They don’t like being stretched or massaged. Nerve flossing offers a gentle set of moves to free the nerve. I often give these moves to patients once they are out of pain and need some exercises to perform at home to continue the healing process. I keep the reps and the discomfort very low. It usually takes several months of consistent effort to see results. I do not recommend going to YouTube and looking up exercises unless you understand what you are doing and what you are trying to accomplish. I prefer you ask me to ensure you are doing it correctly. I’ve been working on my thoracic outlet syndrome and sciatic nerve for a few months, combined with acupuncture, cupping, and topical herbs. The improvements are slow and noticeable.
Music I'm Dancing to: Texas Hold'Em by Beyonce
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pps I do not have any affiliation with the products mentioned. I like them and want you to know about them.
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