4 years later

Many thanks to TMS, Dr. Sarno and this community for the help it has given me over the years.

My last back crisis with 3 herniated discs was 4 years ago. My road to recovery was long, but has had many residual and long standing benefits for me. I watch my emotions and stressors in my life very carefully. I can almost gauge my life by the stiffness of my back. When I do feel this, I step back --exercise more, stretch more, meditate more and understand how all these factors are connected. Exercise is crucial. My foam roller is crucial to relieve muscle tension.

I have learned how to stop the pain from escalating into a full blown crisis. I have had minor setbacks and mini-moments/days of pain, but have addressed them both physically and spiritually. I engage a therapist if I feel runaway anxiety and don't question spending the money for this anymore. I have to have it. Even if something else has to go.

Since then, I have found a loving and supportive partner who helps me a lot and provides a lot of emotional support and love. This new love required me to make a move back to my hometown, a huge metropolis I never wanted to return. I mastering the noise, the chaos and embracing the good things it offers as best as possible (i.e. the best coffee in the world, Cuban coffee) .

I have learned mastering my attitude under many circumstances is the only way to prevent these health crisis.

I struggle. I thrive.

 

So happy you have found a good path through life.