Moving On

It is hard to believe that it has been over two months since I posted here. I am feeling good and I continue to heal on many levels. I received good news today. My four month follow up pap smear was normal, so that is a relief.

The last two months have been positive. I have gradually returned to my full yoga practice. I think that my poses are as good as before and in some cases better. Because I had to work so hard to regain my abilities, in some ways I am stronger than I was. My energy is good, I sleep well, and yoga continues to be the great passion and guiding light of my life.

I faced a big challenge during the last several weeks. In January I noticed that my left ankle was swollen and that it was not getting better but worse over a two week period. I called my doctor and was sent for an ultrasound to rule out a blood clot. Once it was clear that I did not have a blood clot, I was sent to the physical therapy lymphedema clinic. Lymphedema is swelling due to insufficiency of the lymphatic system. In my case, it is the result of the removal of all the lymph nodes in my groins and abdomen up to the level of the kidneys. While I knew that I was at risk for edema, I thought that my activity level and inversion practice would prevent me from getting this condition.

We can’t be sure, but it seems that my air travel to Nebraska for Christmas may have been the catalyst. The condition is unpredictable and difficult to treat. It is regarded as a lifelong condition to manage. There is no known cure, but rather a variety of techniques that are used to control it and prevent it from worsening. These include lymphatic drainage massage, taping, bandaging, foot and leg exercises, and use of compression garments.

Initially this was quite overwhelming. I had to go to half a dozen appointments to get treatment and education about self-care. The home routine is complex and time consuming. The appointments were very expensive and that added to the stress level. At this point, I have a routine that seems to be working. I know how to bandage the leg if the swelling worsens. I am also very lucky that a long time friend and student Karan Shelley is a lymphatic drainage massage practitioner. Karan’s patient and loving help was extremely supportive in helping me to deal with this new challenge.

I am now working to get my yoga practice to deeper level and to develop my teaching skills so I can truly support and help my students. Cliff is a constant source of humor, support, love and care. My friends and students continue to shower me with kindness. Life is good.