Figuring out my #fibro journey #naturally

Walking to work this morning, with a smile on my face, I had an odd feeling of peacefulness. Not sure where it stems from but could really be a combination of things. I went to bed last night feeling very proud and happy with a nice tidy and clean house. This morning I woke up and gradually got my day going, no rushing. There is always that twinge of regret of not getting the dogs out for a walk, but I am hoping it is not too hot after work to get them out and about. There will at least be playtime in the backyard.

I have been keeping fairly busy and still overdoing it every now and then. Like Saturday, I went to the gym and the market then ended up planting three shrubs later that day. Needless to say, I was in a pretty sore state that night and Sunday. By listening to my body, I managed to still be productive yesterday while recovering. even managed a pretty decent night's sleep without taking melatonin; I am suspecting that the melatonin is a new source of migraines. Little by little, I'm figuring it out.

I remember when I started this journey of figuring out how in the world to manage my fibromyalgia and some of my good friends were telling me, "if anyone can figure this out Amanda, you will". There have been times I was ready to give up but I am forging ahead with new knowledge and self-discoveries. Finding the right people and resources makes a huge difference! I am blessed to have met my naturopathic doctor and for her to want to work with me in this journey.

Here are some things that I have learned that I must abide by:

• Eat as clean as possible (one cheat item a week is okay, but do NOT overdo it)
• Avoid nightshades
• Keep away from peanuts and peanut butter
• Steer clear of gluten
• Keep dairy to a very bare minimum
• Eat lots of veggies and fruits
• Keep toxins to a minimum
• This means medications (which I have eliminated)
• Be aware of the products used on my skin and their effects
• Read every label very carefully
• Listen to my body very carefully
• If my gut is telling me something, listen to it (i.e. taking vitamins and get the feeling that I should take my iron supplement, listen to the feeling and take it)
• Be aware of the cues to slow down and be aware of nearing my exertion limits
• Keep moving, albeit slowly, on my recovery days
• Work on keeping a balance
• This means emotionally, physically, physiologically, and mentally
• Be thankful and love life

There are probably a few more items to add to that list, but it's a good foundation. It's fun sometimes to learn what works for my body and what doesn't. It's like getting to know myself on a whole other level of understanding. It's learning to love yourself inside and out, learning how to be self-compassionate, and most of all, learning how to be the healthiest I can be. 

Cheers