Over the years I’ve developed an aversion to invasion of my body. Well, that’s to say I regard any well-meaning medical suggestions for traumatic interventions with dread and suspicion. It happens as you grow older.
I’ve become someone who would like not only a second opinion, but hey, let’s go for a third too! Excision of lumps and bumps fills me with some kind of nameless horror. |
While we’re on that topic, no, brain surgery is probably next to heart surgery on my list of top not-to-do things at any time.
Over 8 decades my mind has had time for delayed reaction to these bodily experiences. Today, on the occasion of my eightieth birthday, my best heartfelt wish is to remain as healthy as possible, with no more necessary medical interventions.
I recognize I have a big part to play in my own health. Good food, exercise, an untroubled mind ( read that as several uninterrupted hours of sleep) and humour are quite simplistic, but seem very necessary to enjoy life.
This preoccupation with health started in 2020, when I became a Covid-19 patient. Another two times, less severe, and I was left with long term effects. I’ve had a pronounced limp from a clot in my leg. As this resolved somewhat I developed a Baker’s cyst behind the other knee. To cap it all off, a noisy, annoying tinnitus took over my ears.
It’s hard to ignore your personal pain and limitations when they’re with you every step of your way, and every conversation you have with others.
I followed every bit of advice from everyone who seemed to have a valid reason for offering it. Nothing worked. My symptoms remained.
My first session with Ben Hur (he has humour) took place. He explained the fundamentals of acupuncture sitting in front of me, holding my wrists. It’s pretty far out stuff, working on trigger points and paths in your body. It made sense.
I had to lie on a table, while he administered several needles into strategic areas that needed attention. To give you an idea of the connection pathways here’s what I gathered.
Once the needles were painlessly in place he left. I was there, alone in my peaceful thoughts for an hour, listening quietly to soft piano music. Plasters with herbal medicine were applied to a couple of trigger points. Then it was time to leave.
After the first treatment I felt somewhat more encouraged, but thought it must be my imagination.
Second treatment seemed the same. But after a few days the tinnitus disappeared. Completely. Shockingly. I waited for it to return, and it did, to a much lesser degree, but I had a whole week of being free. The leg was much better. I didn’t feel the constant need to be supported with my cane.
Third treatment, two days ago. The tinnitus is still there, but the leg is almost normal. It feels amazing. I can stride again. I can’t tell if I’m limping, but it doesn’t feel as though I am. I feel refreshed, and yet tired. Ben says unlike expectations in Western medicine, Asian treatments do take time before the body and mind heal. My treatments from a registered acupuncturist are covered by my medical insurance.
This post is one of gratitude. I did not expect such positive results. It’s worth keeping an open mind.
Thriving florals!
The 10 acres of lawn are gradually losing their fresh green colours. No rain for a good while now, but most of the flowers are grown in large, heavy pots.
Tonight, in honour of my birthday, I should be able to get a sneak peek at the Perseids meteor shower!
I love this rock. I’ve always wanted one like that in my garden.