Making Life A Celebration!
I've lived with Muscular Dystrophy (MD) for over 20 years. For the first few years, it was undiagnosed, but in 2005 it was confirmed as LGMD. I created this website to share my journey with LGMD and how the changes I’ve made over the last decade have positively transformed my mental, emotional, and physical health, allowing me to live with more peace, calm, and purpose. I hope my story inspires medical professionals and those with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) to explore the changes that have been life-changing for me.
An Introduction to Muscular Dystrophy:
For those unfamiliar, Muscular Dystrophy (MD) falls under neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). It includes a group of genetic conditions causing progressive muscle weakness and degeneration due to mutations in key genes responsible for muscle formation. While there is currently no cure, treatments often involve walking aids, wheelchairs, medications, and various therapies to help manage symptoms. Some forms of MD, including LGMD, can shorten life spans due to weakened heart and lung muscles.
My Experience with LGMD so far:
My muscle degeneration was gradual at first, but after 2009, it accelerated. Weakness spread throughout my body, leading to low energy levels and balance issues. Alongside LGMD, I suffered from bouts of painful bursitis, frequent falls, and chronic constipation, compounded by anxiety, fear, and depression. With mounting stress, I resorted to medications and struggled with the overwhelming burden of my health, family responsibilities, and financial debt.
A Turning Point: Help Through Breathing & Meditation:
In 2012, a friend introduced me to SKY Breath Meditation, and the results were transformative. Despite my financial struggles, I invested in a 3-day workshop to learn breathwork techniques that immediately reduced stress and improved my emotional state. Daily practice of these exercises brought clarity, calmness, and eventually a new awareness of my ability to take charge of my health.
Lifestyle Changes & Nutrition:
As my stress reduced, I examined the impact of my diet and lifestyle on my condition. My past eating habits included a lot of meat, junk food, and processed items, which I gradually replaced with nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. These dietary changes, combined with my daily meditation and breathing practice, led to surprising improvements, including better digestion, reduced falls, increased energy, and a heightened sense of well-being. Motivated, I enrolled in nutritional certificate program and became a certified health coach to help others.
Changes Over the Past 12 Years:
Physically, my strength has declined as the disease has progressed, making everyday tasks like walking, getting up from a chair, or raising my arms increasingly challenging. These changes have required adjustments to my previously active social life, giving me the space to become more introspective and spend time absorbing timeless wisdom that guides me through difficult moments. Fortunately, I don’t require medication for pain, sleep, or muscle relaxation, and my respiratory health remains strong. Each day, I wake up feeling refreshed and energized. Through changes in my diet and spiritual practices like meditation, I’ve seen a significant reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression, allowing me to cultivate a deep sense of acceptance and purpose.
Supporting Others:
As a certified health coach and someone living with LGMD for over 20 years, I help those struggling with physical, emotional, and mental health challenges. I actively volunteer to share the benefits of breathwork, meditation, and nutrition through online sessions, with an aim to make a difference in others’ lives.
My Journey with MD and Key Takeaways:
The past 20 years with MD have taught me the importance of having a pain-free body, as well as maintaining good mental and emotional health.
Whether or not one has a neuromuscular disease, it’s essential to care for our physical, mental, and emotional health. Stress and poor diet contribute to many conditions, and even genetic disorders can be worsened by these factors. By incorporating simple habits—breathwork, meditation, healthy eating—we can significantly improve our well-being and reduce future suffering.
Wishing everyone lots of happiness, joy and peace :)