Breaking the Cycle
For me, the key to breaking this cycle starts with radical acceptance. I can do all the right things, but it doesn’t mean much until I accept myself. I must accept my disease and the many mistakes I have made.
If I can just smile because I am alive and here to enjoy another day, I am on the right track. There is a huge difference in being shamed into change and changing because you already love yourself and want the best for you. Radical acceptance is the first step.
Clearing Your “House”
This step can be done with the help of a friend, but keep in mind you must own this process.
The basic tenets to clearing the “internal” house of your mind are essentially the same as clearing your physical house: you must first remove the junk in your life so there is more time and energy to devote to the important things. What you choose to throw out is about individual choice.
Take inventory of your inner dialogue and cleanse your negative emotions and feelings through ridding yourself of negative talk. This is also an opportunity to clear yourself of bad habits that sap up your energy, like watching television for hours or overindulging in junk food.
New Décor
Once the junk has been removed, you will notice there is so much extra space in your life. At this point it is important to choose the things you actually want in your life.
If you gave up lying on the couch you will still need a form of recreation. Try to choose one that is both enjoyable and keeps you active. You need not run or walk for miles, but getting up and doing something you enjoy will do a wealth of good.
Fill your world with things you enjoy and that are good for you. Enjoy hearing pleasant thoughts about yourself and your life — and be patient.
It can take years to really accept yourself and your illness. I have been at it for over a decade and am still working on ways to refine breaking the cycle and fill my life with new, more positive décor.
When fall hits and quickly turns into a long winter, it’s important to remember these things and keep yourself in check. Don’t let the change of seasons dictate your life — take control and put your health first.
