A new life

It's been a week since I have been on my new medicine and I have to say, I am starting to feel like my normal self. There are many things I use to enjoy doing that I am not able to do now; however, I am learning to do new and different activities. I am starting a new life.

Dealing with Crohn's, it is extremely important to find ways to relax and stay healthy while continuing to enjoy your life. Many sources state finding a relaxation technique will control your emotions as well as enhance your life. The top three relaxation techniques are yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. Some people have found Tai Chi, reading, and massage therapy works wonders.

I, on the other hand, have found my own top three that work best for me: writing, listening to music, and cooking. Although I am not a big reader, I enjoy writing poetry and stories. I already have four poems published. Since the age of 3, I have enjoyed listening to music, singing my heart out, and just letting loose. I might not be a wonderful singer but at least I know how to let myself go. Finally, cooking... I never liked it. I hated spending hours in the kitchen with my mom learning what a whisk was used for or the different types of spices or become exhausted from stirring things together. Growing up, cooking was a nightmare!

If you asked me today, I would say cooking is nothing less than inspiring! For the first time in months, I felt like actually being active. So, I put my ipod on and started cooking! I made a Chicken Paprika over angel hair noodles for lunch. Then after lunch, I made some wonderful homemade coco brownies for my dad for his birthday. Then I cooked my parents and I a lovely dinner: Dill and Lemon Salmon, green beans, and a mixture of sweet potatoes, red peppers, beans, and corn sauteed in a garlic butter sauce. I was so motivated in cooking, that I decided to cook a homemade banana bread for breakfast in the morning. I can't wait to wake up and eat some.

Now, keep in mind, Crohn's is different for everyone! I am still currently new to this disease and until I get the inflammation down, I wont know what I can or can't have. Be extra careful when cooking with herbs, dairy, whole grain, and seeds. These ingredients tend to harm more people than help. So, don't be afraid to go out there and try something new! You never know what you can do until you try!

1 comment:

Zesty Zaftig said...

I'm really glad you took the time to offer your own de-stress tactics. So many people become overwhelmed with all of the purportedly "right" ways to relax, they give up and don't take the time to learn what works best for them.