Wellness
My Introduction to Wellness
I used to think that wellness was about how much or how little I ate, how many times I was able to get to the gym in one week, and a dibble and dabble into fasting or any of the alternative diets. While I’m still growing from that mindset, I’ve started to take a more holistic approach when considering my personal wellness.
My Journey with PCOS
When I was diagnosed with PCOS, I truly felt like it was yet another way of my vagina betraying me. I had a history of vaginismus and had already started working on my pelvic floor starting at 19 years old. To be hit with another diagnosis at 25 was a real struggle in the beginning. I began to have irregular periods, extreme hormonal imbalances, random smells going on lol, and I would always test high for pre-diabetes. I allowed myself space to actually feel sadness for myself, but made a choice not to stay there.
Shifting from Fixing to Understanding
For a long time in my journey, I operated under the belief that if I tried harder, if I ate cleaner, if I pushed through pain, if I worked out harder, if I starved myself, I could fix it. That is totally not sustainable and while I still have some of those thoughts wellness is not about punishment!
I started to ask myself:
What does my body need today?
Am I actually hungry or am I seeking comfort?
How can I support myself?
What small action can I take today to honor my health?
How am I feeling mentally and physically?
The shift to compassion has changed so much in how I support myself.
Sustainable Wellness
Instead of restrictive diets, I focus on balanced eating that supports my hormones. I do intermittent fasting when my body calls for it, I stick to mainly balanced meals throughout the week and still have a cheat meal on the weekend. I will fill you in on my typical diet soon :) With exercising, I do a lot of weight training, walking, and activities I like like tennis and yoga. I do not overwork myself to the point of literal physical exhaustion but I do maintain a gym schedule of at least 4 times a week.
Some days are harder than others, but I’m learning to choose discipline instead of feelings. It is a journey!
If you’ve been struggling with PCOS, vaginismus, hormonal imbalances, pre-diabetes, or just trying to build a healthier relationship with your body, know you’re not alone.
Healing isn’t linear, progress isn’t perfect. Every small choice you make for yourself, every time you choose your wellness and prioritize yourself is a win. Our bodies are a home we must love and care for.
