By Michele Tenney
Here’s To Your Health
Michele Tenney
In my profession I deal with some people who’ve recovered from injuries or surgeries. Most have done their due diligence in getting themselves back on their feet by seeing a physical therapist, though a few have not.
In the past, my clients have always come to me after recovery and so I never had the opportunity to witness what was actually done during their PT sessions to get them stronger and fully recovered. However, I am now doing my job in a setting where I get to witness firsthand what physical therapists actually do. I am amazed daily at the progress I am seeing in their patients and I feel privileged to be among them watching the medical side take a totally different approach from big pharma and surgery-first approaches in getting their patients pain free and stronger. I am not against modern medicine or surgeries. I am pro taking the path of least resistance and starting with a more natural approach to wellness first.
As in any profession, not all people are equally proficient. Finding the right physical therapist for you is essential. Finding one that believes in overall wellness – body, soul and spirit – is important. They shouldn’t just be getting you pain free and stronger and then send you out the door without a proactive program in place to help you stay pain free and get even stronger.
Being in this new environment, I now also have a better understanding of the emotional aspect of chronic pain and how true compassion must be present for these patients. Everyone heals differently, and some people take longer than others to heal for a medley of reasons. Nonetheless, I enjoy supporting them and encouraging them.
You are a spirit that has a soul that lives in a body. I know you’ve heard me say that plenty of times before, but it’s worth repeating. We cannot devote only a part of ourselves to wellness. We have to be all in on all three dimensions.
Devotion is a good word when it comes to being fully whole and healthy. Love yourself enough to be devoted to your health. You are an investment. An investment to yourself and reward to those who love you. There’s a saying I heard this week. “Invest now or pay later with interest.” It’s never too late to start living your best life. Start today. Don’t wait for tomorrow, because tomorrow is not promised to us.
Don’t ignore what your body is telling you. Living with pain is not an option. I believe in you and encourage you to start living your best life possible. Here’s to your health.
Michele Tenney is a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritionist & Wellness Coach. She is a member of the Orange Board of Health. She can be reached at 203-668-2969 or email at Hmgbrd3@gmail.com.