New vision
Seems like lots of dust has collected over here since my last blog post in February. Turned out, my ghost of TMJD past crept on me again causing me a few months of agony, which I’m still dealing with day to day. However, I can say I’m better than before as I was not even able to sit and write at the computer.
What is TMJD you ask? It is a disorder of the Temporomandibular joint. Yep, that tiny little joint that helps open and close your jaw for talking and chewing. If thrown out of whack (whether it’s muscular or a disc problem) it can cause just about every single ridiculous symptom you can think of. This disorder is also clever at disguises, as it does not always make its debut appearance at the jaw joint. Mine came in the form of what I thought was a heart attack, which actually turned out to be referred pain in my sternum from a pulled pectoral that came from my back, which was reacting to my neck being misaligned because of my jaw. Now why on earth would that happen? I’ve had a faulty jaw pretty much all of my life after a terrible fall as a child. My jaw never really found its secure place so I would grind away at night. As an adult I would grind my teeth under stressful circumstances. And like many women my age, who are trying to balance it all without burdening anyone (Ya, I’m over that), I carried the stress with me and nestled it in my jaw and muscles. I’m sure the long hours in front of the computer 7 days a week (while adjusting to single motherhood) played a huge role in all of this too. It erupted. The universe gave me a clear warning through a four letter acronym and a string of horrific symptoms (vertigo, tinnitus, seriously scary visual disturbances, excrutiating pain and adrenal fatigue) to start taking care of myself. But what does “taking care of oneself” really mean? Easier said than done because we’re creatures of habit, and finding a starting point can be very challenging. But I was given no choice and started with the help of an amazing functional medicine doctor, an intuitive massage therapist and the support of amazing women who have left me in awe with their courage and strength. I’m also grateful to have my mom to talk (vent) to and a boyfriend who has blown me away by simply being nurturing and present with me every step of the way.
I was diagnosed with TMJD in 2006 after a very difficult time, and eventually healed after treating the symptoms. Why did it come back? Because like I said, I treated the symptoms … and not the root cause. This time around, while settling down my symptoms with massage and splint therapy, I’m treating the root cause. And without getting into long details, the bottom line is that my mind, body and spirit were not one. They were running in three directions, which is why I actually never felt any physical pain until it was out of control. Connecting spiritually, eating the right foods to nourish and heal, exercising, feeding my soul with creativity, getting closer to the people I love, shedding what doesn’t suit me anymore and being in touch with myself at all times is the new direction. In doing that, the symptoms are less daunting little by little. I’ve adapted an entirely new daily routine, which includes prayer, meditation, yoga … leafy green drinks, gluten free meals … and a list of wonderful things that I plan to share more of on this blog. The Art Muse will now be about the art of living. Sure, I will still throw in a few art shows and how-tos but the perspective is entirely different. As I still slowly pull the shades, I feel that this disorder came back as my personal guru to take me down a new path. When you can’t move and your senses are compromised, the way you see the world completely changes.
There’s so much to share, I’m excited to start writing again. Thanks so much for your stopping by the blog. It has certainly been a while and it feels great to be back. Hope to see you along with me on this journey!
Thank you all for the beautiful comments! xoxo
I was concerned about the stillness of your last post. The earrings. No Rachel. It was all too quiet here; something uncomfortably amiss. Now, your fans know. I’m sorry to hear about your illness. I’m happy to know you are getting better and that you are surrounded by all the love and support you need to continue on. I’ll still be watching, listening, learning on the outskirts of your tours. Be Well.
Thank you for sharing! It is great to know you are feeling better. I have had my own struggles this year and am also slowing getting back to thinking and doing for me, which is hard to do. xoxo
To know you is to love you and I’m adoring this Rachel that is manifesting herself in her true glory.
Here’s to new beginnings!!!
It makes me extremely happy to know you are feeling better amiga! Welcome back! XOXO
I’m so glad, you are back and recovering! Cuídate!
Thanks for sharing Rachel! I have a similar situation, an auto-immune disease, that stopped me in my tracks several years ago. I am finally getting back in the groove this year. Hang in there. You’ll figure out workarounds to get everything done in a way that is healthier and more sustainable.
So glad you are back and feeling better. Can’t wait to read more about the art of living.
Rachel,
Glad to hear you are doing much better. I’m looking forward to reading your The Art Muse blog with your whole new perspective! You’re so inspiring.
You look and sound fantastic. I know it’s also easier to say than what it may take, but those outside of what you are going through can see a strong and beautiful woman. Thanks for sharing!
I love you Mama. Im so glad we met. Im grateful for your friendship and happy that you are doing better :)
As long as we can share cat pictures, I’ll always love you. ;) Cheering you on!!
So very happy you are on the mend in a better place, we are all praying for you, sending lots of love and light your way. Thank you for sharing your story! xo!
Stay strong, Rachel! :) xo
I’m so glad that you are on the road to recovery. I think it is wonderful that you are using your experiences to fuel you creatively. I can’t wait to hear more about how we can better care for ourselves mind, body, and soul.
I imagine this was a huge share for you and thank you for sharing – you seem more open or maybe it’s just cause we’ve met more now – here’s to better days always xoxo
You are as gorgeous on the inside as you are on the out, but what I love most is your ability to sustain. I’m proud to know you, lady, and am excited to share in your journey. xoxo
You found a way to turn all the pain into growth. I love it.
I’m so happy to see you back and feeling better. Thank you for sharing with us. Love ya!!
Wow Rachel! I had no idea. I hope your new routine will help you on your path to a healthier life! Thanks for sharing!