I am capable!
You know how I know? My yoga instructor told me so. She gives us weekly affirmations after class, and they’re always so uplifting.
When you’re overcoming critical illness, chronic illness, or a setback of any type, you might get stuck in the negativity of what you can’t do. Positive self-talk is so important because your mind is always listening.
So, How Do You Stay Positive?
Find a purpose!
We all have a need to contribute, to be heard, and to be seen. I’m using my lived experience with sepsis for advocacy, sepsis awareness, and policy change.
- I’m a co-author on two CIHR-funded research papers
- I am working on 2 more research projects
- I recently completed the James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership on critical care medicine in Canada
- I am on several committees: Can-SOLVE CKD IPERC, CCCTG Indigenous Circle, Canadian National Sepsis Action Plan, and Sepsis Canada Patient Advisory Council
Exercise!
No matter your level of capability, get moving. Not only will you build muscle, strength, and flexibility, but exercise also does wonders for your mental health.
If you don’t know where to start, I previously wrote about fitness at every level.
Eat!
We are what we eat! When you go to the grocery store, avoid the middle aisles. Forgo the processed stuff for real ingredient foods. When you’re thirsty, grab water instead of soda.
Sleep!
We all need to rejuvenate. Keep your bedroom dark and cool for a solid sleep. I also love listening to 528hz, the miracle tone. Experiments have shown that this tone reduces cortisol (stress hormone) and increases oxytocin (love hormone). I also play it when I’m studying to help me focus.
Love!
Love yourself, your partner, children, friends, plants, and or pets. We are meant to connect and nurture. It was so hard to leave my recovery bubble, but my mental health is so much better now that I have.
Remember, you are capable!
