Discovering inner strength, resilience and growth through adversity.
When we go through tough periods, experience health challenges or loss of any kind, life can be overwhelming and, especially when issues compound, can make us feel like we hit rock bottom. Reflecting on my own recent struggles, how can we navigate difficult times and rise again?
I started 2025 with a severe hip inflammation. It progressed in pain and intensity to the point where I couldn’t sit, stand or walk properly; lying down made it worse, subsequently I hardly slept. After seven days, I was desperate and went to the hospital where an injection, thankfully, took the edge off the pain. Multiple scans later, I was diagnosed with a substantial tear in the lining of my hip joint and after consulting a specialist, I was advised that ultimately, a hip replacement would be imminent. I was shocked as I always considered myself fit and healthy.
In addition to these physical and mental challenges, I struggled emotionally - my close friend and trusted Kinesiologist (with whom I’ve studied and exchanged monthly online sessions for the last 10 years), had been diagnosed with bowel cancer in late October and then passed quite sudden in the middle of January. Although I had the chance to say goodbye to her via Zoom, I was (and still am) shaken to the core. I deeply miss her and her invaluable support. By the same token, my beautiful friend, in her infinite wisdom, helped me to find perspective in my presenting challenges, drawing strength from what she had to go through.
Key learnings and self-help strategies.
When we are in physical and/or emotional pain, or, in survival mode, it can be difficult to think of self-help strategies. This is why I recommend to my clients to keep a list of support tools that is easily accessible when you need it or, create a tangible support box filled with reminders or visual prompts.
While I was unable to engage in exercise – one of my vital support mechanisms and outlets - I learned to adapt my movement options and reminded myself of the alternative tools and techniques available to me, some of which I outlined below. I also reached out for help and mobilised my support network which included my valued osteopath, tutor and kinesiologist in the UK and an exercise physiologist.
We are all different and each situation is unique - which is why Kinesiology is so effective as each session is uniquely tailored. Based on my recent experience and working with clients, here are some strategies to consider:
Acknowledging our emotions and practicing self-compassion.
Although tempting, suppression doesn’t serve us, thus it is vital to allow ourselves sometimes to be miserable and perhaps, feel sorry for ourselves (as long as it doesn’t go on for too long). Giving ourselves permission to honour and express how we feel can be really helpful, opening the way for us to start releasing and letting go. If talking things out with a trusted person isn’t an option or doesn’t work, I recommend to clients:
- Writing - grab some paper and write things out, let it flow literally out of you and repeat as often as you feel the need to
- Without worrying about grammar (or using socially appropriate wording ;))
- Consider writing a letter if a person is involved (without sending it)
- It can also be powerful to write a letter to yourself
- There is no need to re-read or keep anything - when done, trash or safely burn the paper(s) to symbolically let go
- Finish with a positive intention, affirmation or a gratitude practice
- Physical release (if you are able to do so) - punch a pillow, jump up and down or go for a sprint to release pent up emotions or tension
- Get vocal (in a constructive way) - scream in your car with the windows up, sing or yell
- Shed tears - if crying doesn’t come easily to you, watch a movie or clip that touches you emotionally.
Calming the mind and nervous system.
When we experience challenges or are in pain, we almost always are in survival mode and in a heightened state; our thoughts can be our worst enemy or, they can be our saviour i.e. becoming aware of negative, fearful or self-critical thinking is key so we can turn things around while signalling to our system that we are safe.
Simple yet effective ways of settling ourselves such as grounding, breathing and mindfulness practices including meditation of any kind, spending time in nature (ocean therapy always works for me) or using affirmations. For more guidance and inspiration, refer to the linked articles below:
- The Value of Grounding
- Vagus Nerve - Switch on your relaxation response
- Calming Technique - Calm yourself and your system
- Creating space for stillness - Mantra Meditation
- Mantras – simple yet powerful
- Daily Affirmations - Choose with intention how you would like to think, feel and be
Putting things into perspective for acceptance and detachment.
Reflecting on others’ experiences or even the world, can help gain a broader perspective on our own situation, aiding in acceptance and detachment and hopefully, more clarity. It is important to note that this approach is not about comparing or devaluing our own circumstances or feelings. What we are going through is valid and relevant for us, right now, regardless of how it may be perceived by others or society.
It is beneficial to recognise what is beyond our control, so we can put our attention on what we can influence. Too often we get swept up in the busyness of life and get distracted from what is truly going on within us.
Tuning into and listen to your body.
My biggest recommendation is to connect with and tune into your body every day. Why? Your body gives you subtle signals, cues or niggles if something is out of balance and if you don’t pay attention, they get stronger until you are willing to listen. Make it a daily habit to take the time to check in with yourself - physically, mentally and emotionally.
I personally like doing this in the evening as it goes hand in hand with reflecting on my day. You could ask yourself:
- Where am I holding any stress or tension right now?
- Am I overthinking or over-analysing too much?
- Do I feel overwhelmed or rattled?
- What am I holding on to and why?
As mentioned earlier, awareness is key so we can make the appropriate changes or take action.
As part of my reflection process, I always like to find the silver lining and right now I know this:
- I’ve become stronger in my mind and my body, and feel better equipped to manage my hip issue
- As a practitioner, I can relate more deeply to my clients who experience similar challenges including (chronic) pain
My experience also reaffirmed my dedication to care for others through Advanced Kinesiology and share my expertise to support my clients with their health and wellbeing. Please reach out if you need help or book online.
In gratitude and good health,
Lexi
“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars."
~Kahlil Gibran~
Other resources from the Complete Connection library.
Create balance and support holistic health and wellbeing.
Click on the link to access the article:
- A balanced approach: Compassion
- Nurturing an abundant mindset
- The energy of being intentional
- What are you choosing to make time for
- The value of cleansing and protecting your energetic field and environment
- Maintaining a strong and balanced auric field
