How to Keep A Positive Mindset Despite Health Setbacks!
This past week was a real do-sy when it comes to setbacks- 

I have chronic migraines but my head does not like the months of Feb-May! It’s like clockwork. My chronic migraines go from annoying to a level of “I want to curse someone out”. That’s pretty fun when you care for lovely folks for a living. 

Then to add to the fun I also deal with a condition called mast cell activation syndrome- and my most aggravating symptoms lately has to do with my breathing. This  past weekend while at the mall with my kiddos I decided to try a new tea (I usually get nervous trying new things because I never know if I will tolerate it) Well I’ve done pretty well lately since my new medication regimen has kept my symptoms fairly stable- keyword “fairly” within 10 minutes of drinking said tea I felt the all to familiar feeling of my lungs closing. Luckily my regimen keeps me from going into full anaphylaxis but I did have to run and use my inhaler a few times to open up my airways- something I have not had to do in awhile-

But that wasn’t the worst day of the week- 

Friday I went to the salon to get my hair done. I walked in with a feeling of dread. I have had a love/hate relationship with my hair for the last several years. My hair has been doing amazing for the last 3 years. It has felt thick and healthy and has been growing really well. About 4 weeks ago I felt the shift. When I started to comb it I noticed more and more hair coming out and the texture changing. I was hoping I was just imagining it but over the next few weeks the hair loss was very obvious.

  • So when I went into the salon, I knew I would have to cut a significant amount off-AGAIN! 
  • It didn’t make the moment any easier and as tears started to build up- I had to tell myself some things- and I will tell you the same if you are going through some health challenges or setbacks.
  • You are allowed to feel all the emotions in this moment
  • This moment does not define you
  • Better days WILL come-
Some things I do is:

  • Listen to my favorite music- music is food for the soul
  • Read my favorite book-nothing like “escapism” to list my mood and take the mind off current circumstances.
  • Stay away from the news and media- I find news can increase anxiety and during times of a setback, you want to keep your focus on the most positive things you can find- so no NEWS!
  • Try to connect with your “positive” people- this may not be family and that’s okay. The online support community has come a long ways over the years. Try to find a group that is focused on positivity-If you need one- I will post the link to mine Here
  • Use uplifting essential oils- citrus oils like orange, and lemon and bergamot are very uplifting and helpful in times of a setback. My favorites are here
Health challenges and setbacks will come-and then they will go! 

Find what works for YOU to keep in a positive mood!

 



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Meet Leah Parker

 
Who Am I 

Leah Parker


My name is Leah. I am a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner specializing in FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE, and an AWARD WINNING Published Author
I am very passionate about helping others who are  diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Histamine Intolerance navigate the healthcare landscape and find ways to OPTIMIZE their  life despite what others may consider a limiting diagnosis.

It took me many years of trial and error in my own life to find the right combination of holistic and traditional treatments to manage these conditions. The frustration of having to learn to speak up for myself when speaking with fellow providers about my concerns (I am very introverted). Now it is my mission to help others  OPTIMIZE their life so that they can live their lives to the fullest.

Being diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance can be life changing but I truly believe it does not have to be the end of life as you knew it before diagnosis. I would be honored to link arms with you to help you navigate this whole new world- to EMPOWER you to live an OPTIMIZED life!






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