Body Talk: Reinventing Life and Embracing Disability
As we journey through life, our connection with our bodies moves and shifts with time. The intricate dance becomes more challenging as we age, especially when faced with chronic illness or disability. We may encounter physical constraints and emotional and mental limitations that come along. Coming to terms with our circumstances can be daunting, but embracing self-love amidst bodily struggles is truly beautiful. In this heartfelt post, I delve into the complex relationship we have with our bodies during adversity, the accompanying grief, and the profound joy we can find in accepting our new reality.
Embracing The New Normal
When we're unwell, we yearn for that elusive feeling of "normality" we once took for granted. That ease of being, before our bodies changed. Embracing our new reality can be daunting, as we cling to hope for recovery while fear and uncertainty weigh heavily on us. Some of us face pain daily, yet still we find the strength to choose to take up space in the world. This is our reality, and we navigate it with courage and resilience.
As our bodies change, exhaustion often impacts our ability to enjoy activities we once loved. Physical disabilities require us to carefully navigate through daily tasks that were once effortless. These changes can impact our self-image provoking self-consciousness.
Denial and Acceptance
Denial often serves as a coping mechanism when faced with, what can feel like, overwhelming loss. Facing up to the changes can be difficult as we cling to the belief that our condition is temporary, but over time, we begin to see this looks unlikely. Despite this, moments of hope still emerge as we yearn for improvement. And it’s human and natural to hold onto hope, but eventually, with no more paths to explore, we find ourselves backed into a dead end. It’s at this moment we’ve got to find the strength to accept our present reality and learn to navigate the world within it.
From Overwhelming Sadness to Peaceful Acceptance
Even as we begin to embrace acceptance, sadness can be so overwhelming. And it's so tempting to run from it, bury it, or try to fix it. But instead of avoiding these intense emotions, if we give them the space they truly deserve and fully experience them, we can let go of the tension and eventually find some peace.
By accepting our present reality, we don’t stay the same. In not hiding from anything that forces us to change, it gives us an opportunity to evolve into a stronger version of ourselves. We learn to adapt, creating our own inner power to overcome each challenge life throws at us. As we adjust, staying true to our values and emotions. I feel genuine resilience grows, nurtured by a calm mind and a peaceful heart.
From Pain to Potential
Perhaps it's not about returning to our pre-illness or pre-disability selves. Instead, it's about understanding that the journey ahead is equally important in shaping our authentic selves. It's an opportunity to grow, evolve, and find inner peace. And it starts with accepting our current circumstances - acknowledging pain while always keeping sight of the potential for happiness right now and personal growth that lies ahead.
Seeing Beyond the Limitations
Dealing with a disability can turn our world upside down. We are very likely going to need to adapt and put in more effort due to our new normal. Frustration and anger can be directed towards our bodies when they don't perform as they used to. Ableist programming might make us feel embarrassed if we have to ask for help or if we find ourselves being stared at in public. This can create a misguided sense of helplessness, draining us of hope and joy.
No matter how difficult your day feels, hold onto the belief that you will get there, despite those obstacles. You’ll find that there are tools to help you cope with the changes but whatever you do, remember to look back and see how far you've come, not just how far you have left to go. Especially if you get lost in nostalgia. Remember, it's not just okay, but entirely normal to feel a sense of loss during these moments.
Beyond the Mirror
For many it can be incredibly difficult to look in the mirror and accept what we see when our body has changed. The effects of these changes can make us feel like a stranger in our own skin. Our identities and worth are not defined by our abilities or lack thereof. Each of us has something valuable to offer in our own unique way. We can be a source of love, laughter, and positivity in our relationships with others, bringing colour, texture and dimension to the world and having a significant impact on the people we care about.
And Beyond the Past
As humans, we often reminisce about our past and, in search of comfort, we try to recreate those most cherished moments. However, in our new reality we need to navigate life differently, embracing our new body as part of who we are. It's crucial to make space for ourselves as we are now, don’t be afraid to take up space as a disabled person and advocate for accessibility in a world that often overlooks our needs. By helping society recognise that an accessible world benefits everyone, we can help create a more inclusive and empathetic world.
Courageous Acceptance
It's important to remember that joy can still be found even in the middle of sickness or disability. When we let go of the pressure to constantly strive for improvement, we can find relief by embracing our current reality. This can even lead to finding joy in our new life. Reframe your situation and establish an empowering relationship with yourself and your body. Don't let societal expectations shape your perception.
Embracing our new normal takes courage, to acknowledge the pain and sadness of accepting a disability. It requires us to fully embrace it, allowing us to move forward. This journey may be challenging, but you’re not alone. As a community, we can find strength in our shared experiences.
Wrapping Up: Celebrating Acceptance and Belonging
It's evident that the journey of illness and disability is deeply personal. Each of us processes emotions like grief, fear, denial, and acceptance in our own unique way. However, four key takeaways from this experience are:
The significance of our connection with ourselves and our bodies, especially within the chronic illness or disability community
It's possible to find joy and create a meaningful life within mainstream society, embracing peaceful acceptance and love for our bodies.
Having a supportive community is powerful. It promotes self-love, acceptance, and empowerment, creating a sense of belonging.
We must strive for a world that values and supports disabled individuals. It's exhausting to advocate for ourselves while battling sickness. Strong allies outside our community standing and fighting alongside us is crucial.
In challenges, we have a wonderful chance to gain valuable insights that can shape a better world. By staying focused, holding onto our truths, and pursuing our shared goals, we can create a friendlier, more inclusive, understanding, and accepting world together.
Having a support system of loved ones, community, and allies is incredibly significant for those of us with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Acceptance may be slow, but building inner strength to overcome obstacles can transform our lives and make us feel appreciated. There is no definitive way to exist in this world with a disability. It all comes down to finding coping mechanisms and embracing our identity, joy, and fulfillment even in the face of challenges. Keep that hope shining bright!
Lastly, don’t forget to follow me on my socials where I am planning something special soon - so stay tuned.
