ACCEPTING CHANGES AND LOSSES

This 'doctor' hasn't held sessions for awhile as she was experiencing some changes in her own life. I just turned 69 and prior to that big date, which I celebrated with many of you readers, I was not celebrating too much. I hadn't been feeling too well. I have always been a very energetic person who was always able to be 'up and running' so to speak. Well...I ran out of steam.

It began with a simple cold, then a sinus infection, then some disappointments which led to a rather serious bout with depression, then a discovery that I could no longer do anything with my right arm since I have not only torn the rotator cuff, but all tendon and cartilege appears to have disappeared and I believe I have now pinched a nerve...I have simply been in PAIN. And pain really drains one of all energy. So a rather significant surgery is scheduled for January 6th. The recovery will take a few months I hear, but I've been assured that my fingers will still be able to punch these keys---so I hope to continue to blog through it all.

I tell you all this not to 'kvetch' (complain in Yiddush), but to relate how I'm 'getting through' in hopes that it helps any of you who have begun to notice and to deal with things that simply take away that wonderful sense of 'well being'.

First off, a friend of mine who is a 'potter' began telling me what great therapy that is, especially when one lives alone, as she and I both do. The next day I installed an easel, paints, canvases, etc. into my apartment. I had always thought about painting, and it turns out that it was the perfect thing to do. It really is a peaceful activity. Sort of like golf. For a few hours all you do is concentrate on the picture developing in front of you (or in the case of golf--the ball). Everything else going on that may be troubling disappears. And when something appears on the canvas that pleases you to look at---you feel terrific! I cannot stress enough how much these activities can help the stressed mind (and body).

Secondly, as we age we find out more and more, actually about everything, but certainly about ourselves. We become more sensitive to the things that can almost incapacitate us. Of course we do everything known medically to help ourselves. Sometimes it's medication, but always it is taking care of our bodies. Making sure that we spend part of our day wherever we are, walking. I have my darling little doggies, so that's a given. And as I've written before, on the walk really 'stop to smell the roses'. Also, do some work on your body either in your homes or in a gym...no matter how lame it is...do something. Even in a wheel chair there is so much to do with one's body. And really look at your nutrition. That salt and sugar really do a number on me. I feel bloating and fatigue right away. When carbs are removed and protein is emphasized my energy level really soars. Can't beat those salads with some chicken, salmon, or whatever. And...I have a Mimi Scott energy boost. At three o'clock when I feel my energy waning, I take two Hoodia, and one acai berry capsule with Acai berry juice. For me it works absolutely amazingly.

Thirdly, spend some time in meditation or in a spiritual connection. Do it in any space that makes you feel peaceful and quiet. And think a lot about the AA mantra "let go and let God'.
Just calling upon the universe for some help can really remove your burden...at least for a time.

Finally...get your 'house in order'. I've spoken of this before. I was absolutely overwhelmed when I returned from my recent trip to New York. It seemed like my closet, my desk, my accounting work were totally out of control. So arm or not, I went to work. To the point that I felt good enough and relaxed enough to go to a movie (Blind Side---was great and the kid playing the son who is probably no more than 10 years old, should absolutely be up for Best Supporting Actor), and to get back to my blog.

As always I hope I've been helpful. But the main point I wanted to make was to accept with creativity (and with some 'help' which I've decided to embrace since it provides you with the energy to flourish once again) all those lousy things that begin to bog us down. Maybe do some face painting on the wrinkles! Be well...talk to you next week.

Dr. Mimi Scott
www.mimi@drmimiscott.com