Health

I've not been blogging overly much these past few months. I think I mentioned that I've suffered with Thyroid problems before but never really gone into detail as the medication I take has pretty much dealt with the symptoms over the years. However, over the last couple of months I'd been feeling a little out of sorts but I'd just put down to the crazy/busy of modern life and the big changes we've been going through this year. Writing it all down helps as I tend to keep a lot in while I'm in the process of going through it.

There's been quite a bit going on; Emmy unexpectedly falling pregnant and moving into her own apartment, the horrible bout of illness I had in the Spring that led to low white blood cell count and a six month recovery, my Mum's several hospital stays, Tani's new job along with much longer commute, and  my best friend returning to Albania. Plus of course the ending of our seven year homeschooling journey as our three youngest girls started attending the local village school.

Without homeschooling to worry about I have more time to nurture my own needs but the change still feels very emotional and difficult to come to terms with at times. The house feels very empty between 9 and 3. Homeschooling was an enormous part of our lives and the memories of those years together are incredibly special. Perhaps the transition is particularly poignant as in the same year my eldest begins to found her own family unit. Our nest seems just that little bit barer. I find myself looking with wonder, laughter and a fair few tears at the baby photos. That crazy, messy, magical, wondrous, bleary-eyed, sleep deprived, shimmering time and wondering how it went so fast.

By Boxing day evening while I was tidying up the birthday things (Boo was born on Boxing Day) my heart started to pound and an intense swell of adrenaline flushed across my chest. It really scared me and for the next few hours I felt jittery, shaky and weak. During the following days I began to feel better but  knew I would check my symptoms further. When I spoke to my sister in law who is a OB/GYN she suggested that it could be my thyroid again.

So I have had all the required blood tests and wait to find out for certain.

For such a small gland it sure can cause a lot of problems. I remember when I first went to my doctor  12 years ago and was prescribed antidepressants which did nothing to ease my symptoms. Eventually I moved to another surgery where they did a full blood analysis which revealed that my Thyroid was under-active. Once I began taking Thyroid replacement my symptoms all but disappeared. I often wonder how many people get misdiagnosed and treated due to an underlying Thyroid issue.
Small changes in the function of the Thyroid Gland can lead to myriad of symptoms from lethargy, low mood, difficulty concentrating and dry skin to hair loss, anxiety, palpitations, severe headaches and weight gain or loss.

Since April last year I have cut out caffeine, alcohol and most processed sugar. I've also found benefits from cutting down on my gluten intake too.  I'm exercising a little more (although I usually like to think my life is exercise enough :) been taking multivitamins and pro-biotics and dedicating at least 15 minutes a day to meditation/quiet/prayer time so all in all my body has had to absorb lots of lifestyle changes. 

 I don't know what inspired me to take pictures of my dinner, (below) except from time to time I manage to surprise myself by cobbling together a plate of something reasonably healthy, and not too unattractive. These pictures were taken over the last few months (not days) so I don't always manage both at the same time.

Quinoa, Wild Rice and Mixed Grain with Samphire, Carrots, Garlic, Red Onion, Peas, Chilli and Corriander.

Roiboos Tea with Natural Yogurt, Rhubarb Syrup, Chia Seeds,  Irish Soda Bread and Strawberry Conserve.

Wild Mushrooms with Rocket Salad, Raw Garlic and Irish Soda Bread.

Especially yummy with a poached egg on top!

Simple lunch of Dr. Organic Pitta with Organic Hummus, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Chilli and Milled Black Pepper. Oh and  Wheatgrass Juice.

.
Health is such a precious gift.
This year in particular has made me think especially of those who suffer daily, maybe even for years with ill health. As well as those who have limited access to good medical care. It also makes me very grateful for our hardworking health professionals, healers and the wonders of medicine in all it's forms.
May I never take the gift of health for granted.

Hoping this new year will  be a happy and healthy one for you too  xx