When you look into a mirror and notice your own reflection, do you hold your gaze or do you avoid eye contact? Does your reaction depend upon whether or not others are present? Will you maintain eye contact with your reflection when you are alone? Do you scrutinize, criticize, and feel awful when you look at yourself? Perhaps there is something you don't want to see; such as a surgical scar, a skin condition, the pain in your face, or sorrow and puffiness in your eyes. The list could go on and on. It is true that we can be our own worst enemies in regards to how we view ourselves. We are too often hard on ourselves and self-perception can be distorted.
I remember how long it took before I could truly look at my surgical scars. Fear and shock kept me 'doe-eyed' for quite some time. I wanted to avoid seeing them. Part of me was in denial, and that is natural when we face a health change that is both dramatic and overwhelming. When I accepted my first surgical scar and took the time to fully examine it, I found I was better able to care for the incision site at subsequent surgeries, felt less squeamish watching for signs of infection, and felt more comfortable caring for the skin...which ultimately helped my scars fade and soften. Face time is my opportunity to notice warning signs of poor health and whether I am giving myself the ongoing care I need. I watch for signs of fatigue, excess stress, pain, grief, or sadness. I am my own caretaker, and managing chronic health conditions is a full time job. You are the expert of yourself. Check in with yourself, look at your body, and into your eyes. Acknowledging and recognizing your health needs is important. Small efforts provide great rewards. How in the world will you have a productive discussion with your health care provider if you are neglecting yourself and not paying attention to the signs your face and body are providing? Check yourself out, it's okay. There is a difference between mirror gazing as an act of vanity versus time monitoring your health and taking good care of yourself.
In the words of Belleruth Naparstek, founder of Health Journeys - (one of my favorite resources to de-stress and be well), "Our bodies are our oldest friend, and steadiest companions..." Take a peek at yourself today and give yourself some face time.
Be Well! ~ Tiffany
