The storm is over Blog 14

Oh, friends, we have been on a roller coaster ride of emotional health and unwellness, haven’t we? Today, though, we’re focusing on wellness and progress.

This butterfly and I have struggled together—we’ve fussed, cried, kicked, and bantered. Despite it all, I’ve come to appreciate and respect her for everything she does to help me be healthy. I’m so glad I chose to truly listen to her rather than forcing my external solutions. By tuning in to what my body actually needs instead of what I thought it needed, my life has transformed.

I didn’t realize that my body’s needs and wants were aligned with my deeper desires. But I had to let go of what I thought was “right” and embrace what was right for me.

Once we got on the same page, everything changed. I’m especially grateful that I’ve never been a smoker or drinker—my butterfly can’t handle it, especially smoke. It’s detrimental to me.

Today, I eat for my mental and medical health. The cold hands and feet still linger, but they’re not as intense as before. Sleeping in socks has become second nature—I’d feel naked without them! My hair is thriving, and those old symptoms like dry mouth, dizziness, blackouts, and fatigue are gone.

Stress management is key for me. I do well keeping my glass half full, but even I get frustrated sometimes—family can be the main culprit. When that happens, the swelling in my throat reminds me to stay calm, as it can lead to shortness of breath and pain.

I’m on a great vitamin regimen that works wonders for me. My doctors are amazing, and I even have a new endocrinologist who’s been incredible. Funny enough, she’s also named Mary! My cycles are stable now, with shorter periods and only mild cramping—nothing like the severe pain I used to endure.

My voice is stronger, too. I can speak for long periods without feeling like I’m about to collapse. My weight is balancing out as I focus on toning and losing in the right areas. Tailoring my workouts to suit my thyroid has been a game-changer, and I’ve incorporated yoga to help with joint flexibility and my scoliosis.

Yes, I have scoliosis, too—this body is truly a piece of artwork! In fact, I’m considering commissioning an abstract drawing to capture the beauty and complexity of my journey. It’ll be timeless.

My hands, though, are a work in progress. They still wake me up, burning and throbbing. While I know I won’t be able to do everything I’m doing now forever, I’ll figure out how to make them work for me in the meantime.

Sharing what I’ve learned with others brings me so much joy. Teaching people how to navigate their own health challenges is a passion of mine. I always encourage them to find what works for their unique needs, but at least they’ll have a starting point.

This thyroid, shaped like a butterfly, demands attention—and I’ve learned to listen. When I care for her properly, she rewards me with wellness. When I don’t, the consequences are swift and undeniable. We’re friends now, working it out together.

Thank you, my beautiful butterfly, for all you do for me and continue to do.

In my next blog, I’ll share what I’ll be doing worldwide to educate others, gain new knowledge, and teach people how to live for their mental and medical health. The best part? You can be part of the journey through social media, learning alongside me. Research is a process—why not make it inclusive and fun? Stay tuned!