I recently had my annual well woman physical. The main goal in making these yearly visits is to get the good news—the readings of my blood chemistry which practically shout the positive results of the lifestyle changes I’ve incorporated over the years.
Year after year, I’ve been fortunate to have “no complaints”.
The physician runs through his extensive check list of complaints: Dizziness? Chest pains? Shortness of breath? Constipation? Etc. And I say, no, no, no, and finally, exasperated, utter “none of the above!” I am well. I have no complaints.
I have found myself in a bit of a funk off and on since that visit. Not actually depressed, but sometimes blue, sad or maudlin – just not my usual perky self.
Something the doctor said, has been nagging at me. After perusing my records and looking me over, he announced: “According to statistics, a healthy woman your age can expect to live another 15 years.” Halleluiah for actuarial tables!
While physicians all over the world are tasked with informing terminally ill patients with their probable limited life expectancy, now people enjoying health are being given their computer generated termination date!
They say our state of mind is a strong determinant of our physical well-being. We’ve all heard tales of people who quickly succumb after receiving the news of a terminal disease. I can see how that happens. While I pride myself in having a strong, resilient state of mind, that little bombshell resonated for days and weeks casting a dark cloud over my normally sunny days.
As I thought about it, I realized how fortunate I am. Free of any debilitating disease, no crippling arthritic limbs, filled with abundant health in mind and body. But for those who have been diagnosed with life threatening diseases, I can readily see, from my own recent experience, how negative news can allow the mind to dictate to the body.
Whatever my timetable is, I’m planning to live each day to the fullest — surrounded by positive people who project life affirming thoughts and actions. There is no place for negativity in my life.
Wouldn’t it have been nice, to have been sent off from that office visit with a spring in my step because I was filled with health, instead of dragging my feet because I had been reminded that my end is in sight?
And let’s continue to manifest. . .
Like fine wine, women grow better with thyme.
Joyce Wiatroski is the wit and wisdom found on the foodiefumblings blog. You can watch for her contributions on the Diva blog on Tuesdays.
November 24th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
So true Joyce! Great post.
December 1st, 2009 at 1:32 pm
Boy! I am a strong supporter and believer in the ‘fact’ that where the mind goes, the body follows. You can apply this to anything! I hate going to Dr’s for the very reason that they just seem to “have” to find something wrong or report something negative. It almost seems like they just can’t help it. But then, their profession is searching out what might be wrong. And who can blame them; something missed=lawsuit time. Ugh!