Welcome to my readers of the health blog!
I know there are many different reasons you are here and seeking information in the holistic world of wellness. Whether it is to find answers to health questions for yourself, a friend or a loved one, you are likely not finding all of your solutions in the world of western medicine.
I have spent the better part of the last 3 decades in search of truths in order to manage my health in the best way possible. My journey had an unusual source of inspiration. My dad had his first heart attack at the age of 36, and died from his second heart attack at the age of 37. Both of my husband’s parents died at young ages from cancer. When our daughter was born, we were both concerned about what our families’ health histories would mean for our daughter’s future. It was during these early years of her life that I began dedicating a large portion of my time and energy to study every aspect of holistic health I could devour. It is my deepest passion to discover the truths about how to stay healthy in our modern day world and to share what I have learned with others.
The title to this blog post may strike you as a strange concept. Here’s what I invite you to imagine: What do you envision as the end to your story on this planet? We will all have a conclusion to our life someday. If you were writing the script of your life, how would it end? Take a moment to imagine this scenario. Would you slip away quietly and peacefully in your sleep? Would you be surrounded by loved ones? It’s not a topic we like to spend time thinking about much. But I am challenging you to step out of your comfort zone for a moment and consider the possibilities.
Here is the interesting dichotomy – When we are bringing a new life into this world, there is much planning and preparation that ensues. We take new parenting classes, read lots of books about pregnancies, child birth and care of a newborn. We may hire a doula to support us on this journey. We quiz other parents to gather their best points of wisdom on this topic. We discuss with our partner what our key philosophies and moral beliefs are about raising children. In short, we devote a tremendous amount of time and energy in planning for this momentous occasion.
On the flip side, because it is uncomfortable to think about, most people spend very little time and energy planning for the end of their life. Most believe that it is something that is out of their control, and therefore it is not to be dwelled upon. While it is true that there are some freak accidents that can occur regardless of your health, I would contend that the majority of deaths could be scripted another way.
I have sat by the bedsides of people who have lost their touch of reality with the world due to dementia or Alzheimer’s, and those who have been losing their long and painful battle with cancer. I have witnessed their decline and the loss of independence and dignity that usually accompanies these passages. I would like to write a different ending for myself. I believe that is possible.
Just like we plan and prepare for our children’s births, I believe we can plan and prepare our mental and physical health to carry us through life in a positive and supportive way. It takes education, lifestyle changes, and a rearranging of priorities. You are worth it! In the blog posts to come, we will delve deeper into the concepts of what you can do to write a better ending to your story than those you may have witnessed within your own circle of relationships. It is the best gift you can give to yourself and to your loved ones. I invite you to join me on this journey to mindful living!
Laura Gordon is a certified life and wellness coach and a member of the Medical Medium Practitioner Support Service. She is not a physician and is not trained in any way to provide medical diagnosis, medical treatment, psychotherapy, or any other type of medical advice.