Nurturing Myself: Yoga's Healing Journey through BII and Ostomy
The last seven years of my life have been a rollercoaster, grappling with the challenges of both Breast Implant Illness (BII) and living with an ostomy. In the midst of this difficult journey, one practice has been a constant source of rejuvenation and resilience - yoga. The transformative power of yoga has not only contributed to my physical recovery but has also played a significant role in improving my mental and emotional well-being. In this blog post, I will share how the holistic practice of yoga has been instrumental in my healing journey, providing a sanctuary of hope and positivity.
Photo courtesy of Hollister Inc.
Embracing Self-Healing: Yoga has been a beacon of light during my journey of healing from Breast Implant Illness. The gentle, yet powerful, postures and movements have nurtured my body, allowing it to restore and heal naturally. Through regular practice, I have found myself more in tune with my body's needs, fostering a deeper connection with self and promoting self-healing.
Empowering Mindfulness: Mindfulness lies at the heart of yoga, and it has been a game-changer for me in dealing with both physical discomfort and emotional challenges. Breathing exercises and meditation have provided me with a profound sense of peace, helping to ease anxiety and cultivate mental clarity amidst the trials of BII and ostomy living.
Strengthening Body and Spirit: The physical benefits of yoga have been evident in my journey. By focusing on yoga asanas specifically tailored to my abilities, I have gently strengthened my body's core and overall musculature. These improvements have not only helped with ostomy support but also given me a newfound sense of strength and empowerment.
Restoring Digestive Balance: Yoga's positive influence on digestive health has been a revelation. The practice of twisting poses, in particular, has aided in the gentle massage and stimulation of my digestive organs, reducing bloating and discomfort. This newfound balance has provided relief, making each day more manageable.
Emotional Liberation: Battling BII and living with an ostomy has undoubtedly taken an emotional toll on me. Yoga's meditative aspects have been a safe haven for emotional release and self-compassion. By facing my emotions during practice, I have learned to accept and process them, leading to a sense of emotional liberation and inner peace.
Fostering Resilience: The journey of healing from BII and living with an ostomy requires unwavering resilience. Yoga has instilled in me a spirit of determination and adaptability. As I embrace each day on the mat, I find myself better equipped to face the challenges that life throws my way.
Creating a Supportive Community: Yoga has gifted me with a supportive community that understands the struggles of healing from BII and living with an ostomy. Sharing stories and experiences with like-minded individuals has given me strength and inspiration, reaffirming that I am not alone in this journey.
Strengthening Core Muscles: Living with an ostomy requires me to be mindful of my core muscles to maintain stability and support. Yoga has been a safe and effective way to strengthen these muscles without putting undue pressure on my abdomen. Poses like boat pose and plank variations have helped me build a strong core, enhancing my overall physical endurance and stability
Yoga has been a guiding light, leading me through the darkness of Breast Implant Illness and living with an ostomy. This holistic practice has provided me with invaluable tools for self-healing, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. Through gentle movements, deep breaths, and a supportive community, I have found hope, resilience, and a renewed zest for life. For anyone facing similar challenges, I wholeheartedly recommend embracing yoga as a source of healing and empowerment. It has been an incredible ally in my journey towards recovery and self-discovery. Namaste.