Loving myself through illness

As I write this, I am stuffy, congested, sneezy, tired, can't taste, can't hear... SICK for the 3rd day in a row.  

In my ego, I'm like, this isn't right! I'm normally strong, healthy, and bouncing back quickly from any illness or ailment. But my soul whispers, this is just right. Be with this experience. Be here now.

When we are experiencing illness, it's tempting to ask lots of questions:  Why me? Why now? What did I do wrong? When will this end?

But we might never get those answers.  And sometimes, the more we fight an experience, the tighter it grasps us.

I have to be willing to let go and soften toward my illness. Worst case scenario, I might be sick forever... could I love my body anyway?

I taught two yoga classes today (stuffy and all), and in Shavasana (final relaxation) I felt suddenly inspired to say, "Wait for nothing, be present now. This very moment offers you something beautiful and divine."  (Oooh! I definitely needed to hear that one!)

Do not wait for health to be happy & at peace. Find peace & joy in the present moment, no matter the circumstances.

Even though I'm looking forward to feeling better, I'm also working on feeling grateful for this sickness. In this moment, I am offered a chance to forgive, rest, surrender. I am learning about patience and dealing with the unknown.  I am stronger because I know how to be sick, not just how to be well. 

I love myself & my body deeply even though I make mistakes, even though I get lost, even though I get sick. I know that I can get through anything because I am able to sit with sickness, hold her hand, smile & be present with her for as long as she needs.

In the name of soulful evolution, I open myself to the immense variety of earthly experiences that help me grow- one of which is... getting sick! I treasure these times as much as the fun, healthy ones. And in this glowing light of self-love, I will heal.

Blessings to you and whatever THIS MOMENT brings you!  
Smile and allow it.

Love,
Gia xoxo

4-13-15

Photo credit: Hartwig HKD via Flickr