Tuesday, July 19, 2011

The Road To Good Health

"It's never too late to find The Way..."

It's been a bit of a 'rollercoaster' journey of late, which has proved very testing to my powers of resilience and fortitude. As well as attempting to remain strong and supportive for that special lady in my life as she goes through her own personal struggles with ill health, I must also contend with some recurring health issues of my own.

As previously documented, I have developed a condition which although under control, still requires constant observation. I have been continuely struggling to cope with the effects of this condition, and I've been trying to hide any tell-tale signs of the symptoms as best I can, whilst secretly dealing with the stress in my own way. I'm determined not to be reliant upon medication, so I've been looking for alternative remedies by carrying out some research on the internet, and by seeking medical and nutritional advice elsewhere. A lot of the pain in my chest and oesophagus can be reduced by radically changing my diet, although this has been a case of utilising a 'trial-and-error' method over the past few months, as certain foods aggravate the discomfort worse than others. Also as indicated previously, although I can still enjoy the odd beer, I must accept that my binging days of alcohol are definitely over.
So my diet now consists of banana's, smoothies, muesli and yoghurts during the week...with the occassional treat of a panini or toastie at the weekend...as well as that solitary pint on a Friday night after work!
One luxury that I'd never sacrifice is of course my daily Costa coffee! Lol.
I've also been advised to subject myself to a twice daily regime of physical and breathing exercises, which I am beginning to feel the benefit of undertaking.

All of this means that I may well be slowly returning to my old lean and sinewy self of about five years ago, when I used to work all hours, including nights, and burn the candle at both ends due to my rather hectic social and love-life...the difference being that there are now no nightshifts, and there is now no real active social or love-life!

I recently re-read Robin Sharma's book 'The Monk Who Sold his Ferrari', to help me remember to value health before wealth, as this seemed extremely appropriate when you consider what I've just written about above.
I am currently reading one of Paulo Coelho's books entitled 'The Pilgrimage', which is all about one man's journey along the sacred road to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, and his quest for ancient wisdom as he learns to understand the nature of truth through the simplicity of life.
There was a recent film released called 'The Way', written and directed by Emilio Estevez and starring his father, Martin Sheen, which is based on the same pilgrimage (picture attached).
I haven't seen the movie as yet, as I'd rather finish reading the book first, but no doubt I'll get to view it once it comes out on dvd in a couple of months time.
Both of these books help me to keep a sense of perspective in my life as well an ability to retain a sense of hope, optimism, faith and belief.
My inner strength remains intact, and my spirit shall always be unbreakable...despite being regularly challenged in these trying times that we all live in.

Keep the Faith!

Ramblin' Steve

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