Where Energy Flows

We think of winter as a time of stillness, reflection and a time to slow down as nature does.  It is understandable that our bodies sometimes choose to communicate with us in the form of illness at this time of year.   While illness can certainly be attributed to germs and lifestyle, it may require more internal energy to understand fully what is going on with you. 

This winter has been quite the learning opportunity for my family.   We began with our two year old falling ill in November, and not really getting better.  He is again battling his fourth ear infection, and I am told by his pediatrician that because the infections go away for a few weeks, even though he is still drippy and feeling bad, that we are not in the market for ear tubes at this time. My seven year old was okay until January, when her asthma reared its awful head for two weeks, followed by another week of flu-shot immune influenza A, and then followed by an ear infection. My husband has been battling allergies and trying very hard to stay away from the Zyrtek-D, which he has found, affect his mood negatively. 

Then there is myself, who was getting through all of the heartache with flying colors through yoga and meditation, until last week.   I have been diagnosed with a mystery liver infection.  My books tell me the liver is about anger and not taking enough time for myself.   Okay then….more time for me… hmmm… I have no problem listening and trying to learn from an illness – as an adult.  However, I do admit to having trouble remaining zen-like, calm, and feeling that everything is happening for a reason, when my little children are ill.   

After much quiet time dealing with liver pain, I have come to some realizations that I would like to share.   Part of a child’s illness is an immune system that needs to develop through dealing with germs.  Part of their illness may very well be a communication from their bodymind that they need more dedicated time from their adults.   

My sincere and heartfelt advice to you, dealing with illness in children and adults, is to slow down and allow deeper understanding and communication to occur.  If you, understandably so, become frustrated at your inability to help your loved ones, remember that by merely being there and giving love you are helping tremendously.  Be gentle with yourself, and be grateful that you are alive and able to be there for your loved ones.   My sincere hope is that you experience illness as an opportunity to learn, reflect and grow.

Tags: Children, Energy, Illness, Winter