Your life isn’t determined by what happens to or what other people tell you that are.
Your life is determined by how you overcome and how you heal and grow.
This is the part where I tell you little about me.
When I was 23 I was diagnosed with bipolar I disorder. At the time, I thought my life would be defined by what the doctors said…that I wouldn’t be able to hold a job, have a relationship, live on my own, blah, blah, blah.
The crux of their message was that I would never have a “normal” life.
My insides crippled at the thought and I resisted the words they spoke. Yet, there was a small voice inside of me that said, “Fuck. That.”
I fought like hell to define myself beyond this diagnosis. I cried, I screamed, I prayed, I moved, I laughed, I rejoiced, and I celebrated my truth and then it became clear…
I didn’t want a “normal” life. I wanted more!
In the many moments that came after, I chose to live my life beyond what other people, even doctors, said about my life and beyond the labels that confine, judge, and discriminate. I chose to live for me and do my best to love myself completely. Tending to my whole being, health and happiness became my number one priority.
Movement was always my refuge and pathway to healing. But it wasn’t a clear, unwinding path. I got knocked down a ton yet somehow clawed my way back to the surface. Mindfully moving my body, breathing slow and deep, being present with myself was the antidote I needed to recover from the threat and stigma.
Healing isn’t linear by any means. I’ve zig-zagged, loopy-looped, and have been a “mess” and sometimes I still am.
But I am proud of my life. It’s wild and oh so crazy/beautiful. I have career that I love, I have enriching relationships, and I live the way that I want to live—free.
Therapy, meds, nutrient rich foods, journaling, my support system, and creating art are integral for me. But getting into my body and really feeling my feels with movement, bodywork, and breath are my true antidote to the bullshit.
I say this all to say, you are your own healer. It’s an honor to support your healing with listening, providing you feedback and tools, and offering you the tenderness you need and are owed. I vow to do my best to hold the space for you as you bend, break, mend, and heal. I am here for it.
Sending love your way.
——
One last thing…
As you know, mental health is vital. If you are currently struggling with severe changes in mood, emotional dysregulation, chronic stress and anxiety, suicidal ideation, or addiction, I strongly encourage you to seek the help you need. When in crisis call 211 or 866-903-3787, TEXT 741741, or reach out to your health provider or sponsor.
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