I am ever so grateful for being able to feel happily married to my physical self.
January 13, 2017
“I’ve had fibromyalgia/chronic fatigue since a double-whammy of Epstein-Barr and Lyme Disease 25 years ago. Over the years I’ve found many things that have helped: Identifying and avoiding food intolerances, using probiotics and certain other supplements, taking melatonin for sleep, gentle exercise and stress management, to name a few. I have been on a strict low-sugar diet for years and on a couple of occasions gone strictly gluten free.
My problem has been sticking with an exercise plan because the first 15 minutes of any workout (even a slow hike) can be painful – especially in cold weather. Since I’ve been on AH (eight months now) I’d say that the remaining symptoms are vastly improved. I experience a lot of stiffness from too much sitting but really, hardly any pain. Preparing to go out for a walk now feels like fun. A workout feels like a privilege (although I’m still working on making that a regular thing because of work demands).
I’m stuck at four pounds above my ideal weight (I know that sounds silly, but that’s where I fit into size 8 jeans instead of being in between two sizes) but if that’s my set point then so be it. I love my food, I am delighted by the lack of hunger. But most of all I am ever so grateful for being able to feel happily married to my physical self. My 51-year-old body isn’t perfect but it’s no longer a burden – it’s my greatest friend and ally. I’m so grateful to own this marvelous, priceless piece of machinery. When I start quoting Shakespeare you know I’m a little giddy, but I keep thinking of this piece from Hamlet:
“What a piece of work is a man, how noble in reason,
how infinite in faculties, in form and moving
how express and admirable, in action, how like an angel
in apprehension, how like a god!”
OK, I still do have a loooong way to go before I’m in the angel/god category, but I know that many of you are struggling with maintaining the diet and I hope that my story helps. Even if you are not getting “thin” it’s worth sticking with AH for so many reasons. For those here who suffer from acute or chronic illness and might never have robust health, in my experience every little bit helps. Keep finding ways to get 10% better and it adds up over time. Thanks to all of you for your support, and to the Ludwigs for their incredible work. I’m so grateful for having this chance to build my strength as I get on in years, and I hope that many of you are also able to find your path toward health and vitality.”
