"Love your temple by listening to it." - Linda Kleida Romera

I have often observed the way the media portrays the image of health, illness and disability. It does sadden me. Could it be that it will always be human nature to accept health as positive and avoid topics that will drive us into a direction that reminds us of how fragile our body really is? Our body is the driving vehicle of our soul, our mind and our experiences on this Earth. It is also the grounding force that enables our Higher Self to manifest and transition from the inner Self to the outer reality. We express our Self through it and carry it until the time comes to leave this lifetime.

Through this journey, there will be moments that we will need to face the 'darker side' of our body. By this, I mean that although health is something to celebrate, it is equally important to focus on getting through and living with times when our body may not be exhibiting health or when we face the possibility of being labeled as disabled. People from all walks of life may find their Self at one point or another with a disability or connected to someone who is. At any point of our life, we may find that we are experiencing illness in one form or another. Although these are 2 completely separate issues, the connection is strong: This will be a moment of change and transition where we may find that it is time to get back into our grounding force. It can happen to anyone, at any time. This is a huge topic and each person will experience this time differently, but there are a few things that you may find helpful to bear in mind while going through the changes and coming to terms with it.

Get the facts: It is important to get all the information and facts together from the very start. This way, you will be able to empower your Self with knowledge and overstanding. Although health practitioners will be able to provide you with the answers to your questions, you can be pro-active and do your own research. There are many medical journals and books out there that will help you with your search. It may be helpful to contact your local associations for direction too.

It is time to talk and face fears: You are not alone. It may be tempting to keep what you feel within. However, there will be times when sharing and connecting with others will help you get through this stage in your life. In order to heal, there needs to be release. Simply talking to someone who is close to you or finding others who are going through what you are (for example: group meetings) can help with the process of releasing. Your fears are there for a reason. By talking to others it may help you face and confront those fears in a healthy way. By verbally expressing your fears to the Universe (You-In-Verse), you may find responses and lessons from those who know what you are going through.

Open to Questions: Humans are curious beings. The intention of this curiosity may vary. You might find that people (including strangers) would genuinely like to know how you are or how you are feeling. It is your choice as to whether you feel it is right to answer other people's questions. By speaking out, you may be helping others that are going through the same thing as you.

Making sense: It is often said that when something is lost, another is found. Instead of concentrating on what has been lost, you could begin to focus your attention to other areas of your body and senses. The term 'found' may also mean that you may focus attention to other aspects (not related to your body) that will strengthen your journey. This is a time to learn and reflect.

Let your creativity speak: Another form of release can be expressed through your creativity. Let it speak for you in times where words can't. Even if you have never worked with your creative Self, it is not too late to try it out. The different forms of creativity are endless and it is not about seeking validation from others. It is about you and how you wish to express your emotions to the world. Privately or openly, this is a great way to release and heal!

The alternatives: Holistic health can help along with any medical treatments that you are undertaking. Through any stage in our life, natural options are available. Whether it is for releasing stress, connecting Higher Self to the body or for specific illnesses, there is the choice. Please be sure to consult your doctor first for advice and tell your holistic practitioner about your health, medical treatments and/or medication that you are taking.

Get to know your body: Through these challenging physical times, keeping focused on healing and body changes may help with the process. Listen to your body – What is it telling you? You know your body best.