Believe in Something Greater Than You

Listen to episode 33 of The Diabetic Toolbox Podcast: Believe in Something Greater Than You

Do not worry; I am not about to preach a sermon or tell you that it is time you went to church, the synagogue, or the mosque; today’s spirituality topic is about incorporating a whole-person approach to healing.  I know there is nothing like dealing with a chronic illness to remind us of our mortality.  I am so pleased that healthcare professionals and coaches have begun to provide programs and services that not only manage the disease but incorporate a whole-person approach that includes your spiritual and emotional health as well; I believe that we must have the power of spirituality as a tool for helping our clients and patients to heal.  

     As someone who has struggled to be heard by my physicians, I was trying to explain to them not just about my physical ailment but how it was affecting my quality of life. I am so happy that I have a great primary care physician. But if you have ever felt this way or feel that way now, I hope today’s episode will help you to find peace.  On a side note, if you are unhappy with your physician, it is time to change. This relationship should be built on mutual trust and respect; if you do not feel that, then speak with your insurance carrier about making a switch.  A study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Brigham and Women’s Hospital researchers found that” spirituality is important and influences key outcomes in illness, such as quality of life and medical care decisions.”

      Managing a chronic illness like diabetes can wreak havoc on your physical well-being but also your spiritual and emotional well-being as well. It is tough to gain control of your health if your life is in a continual state of chaos. Belief in something greater can give you the foundation to heal and stay connected to yourself and the people you love.

     Spirituality is not just about attending church, synagogue, temple, or mosque. While standard religious practices may be a conduit for many to exercise their faith, resebelonging to a religious group is unnecessary to be spiritually healthy.

According to a study conducted by the University of New Hampshire, the signs of spiritual wellness include:

• Developing a purpose in life.
• Having the ability to spend reflective time alone.
• Taking time to reflect on the meaning of events in life.
• Having a clear sense of right and wrong.
• Having the ability to explain why you believe what you believe.
• Caring and working for the welfare of others and the environment.
• Being able to practice forgiveness and compassion in life.

     Maintaining your spiritual wellness will help you retain your identity, you are not your disease, and help to cope with fear, anxiety, depression, as well as chronic pain.  Spiritual wellness can help you deal with conflict and help you to maintain balance and focus.

There are several ways to boost your spiritual connection, including:

• Yoga,
• Meditation,
• Prayer
• Spending time in the community, donating your time to helping others. 
• Starting a gratitude journal.
• Joining a support group.

     Many of us believe that sharing our business in public is something we do not do, so instead, we suffer alone.  My mother thought this, but joining a support group can give you support and the accountability you need to keep moving forward.  These contemplative practices will help you to quiet your mind and give yourself some compassion as you deal with the day-to-day stress of managing diabetes or any chronic illness.   Please choose one of these tools and try to add it to your daily routine. Doing it for ten minutes daily will help you feel more empowered, find meaning in your life, and stay connected to yourself and your meaningful relationships.

     Your spiritual practice is your connection to your higher power. There might come a time when your family and friends are not available to give you a pep talk, and you need to encourage yourself to keep going; strengthening your belief in something greater will help you to become more engaged in your health and wellness journey, which means a better outcome for your overall health.  This was a heavy topic, but I hope it will help you bring some light and joy into your life.

With Peace & Love,

Renee

Resources:

Ready to lose your first or next eight pounds? Click here to download the Diabetes Walking Kit, my free gift to you.

Looking for an inspirational gift for yourself or someone you love, check out The Diabetes Toolbox Store and receive 20% off your entire purchase.