Living with and Overcoming Chronic Inflammation: My Journey

For the past four years, I’ve contended with chronic inflammation that caused shooting pains in my arms, hands that wouldn’t work properly, and deep and relentless aches in my bones - especially in my hips. When the pain became too much to bear, I decided it was time to seek help. During the height of COVID, I spoke with my GP, and after a series of distant consultations over the phone, I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia - a term I’d often heard but never fully understood. They offered to sign me off work to cope, but that wasn’t the route I wanted to take. Instead, I decided to dig deep and try to better understand my body and its inflammatory response. What I found was an absolute lifesaver. 

Researching Physical Pain and Fighting Back

I dove into researching the causes of inflammation and the many lifestyle factors that contribute to it. I knew I didn’t want to be dependent solely on medication, so I focused on addressing root causes and making sustainable changes. Over the past few years, I’ve made dietary adjustments, reduced my alcohol consumption and explored natural ways to support my body’s healing processes. These changes have not only reduced my pain but have also given me back a sense of control over my health.

One of the biggest game-changers in my journey? Marine collagen. I began taking it in March this year and can’t sing its praises enough. Once weak and stiff, my hands can now grip with strength and flexibility again. Even my hair - my skin - looks fresher, younger and brighter. These benefits may sound cosmetic on the surface but to me, they reflect real, internal healing.

The Science Behind My Routine

Inflammation is a natural immune response meant to protect the body but chronic inflammation can be harmful, leading to a range of symptoms like joint pain, fatigue and more. Through my research, I found that marine collagen supports joint and bone health by replenishing collagen stores, reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. It’s rich in amino acids that help maintain the integrity of skin, cartilage and bones, which explains why I’ve seen improvements in my hands, hair and skin. Result! 

Another essential change was drinking more water every day. Hydration plays a key role in flushing out toxins, maintaining cell function and reducing inflammation. When dehydrated, our body’s natural ability to cool inflammation is compromised, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.

My Lifestyle Changes for Managing Inflammation

Over the past few years, I’ve adopted a handful of key lifestyle changes that might help others dealing with similar symptoms:

Focus on an Anti-Inflammatory Diet. I shifted to eating more whole, nutrient-dense foods. I prioritise fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats like omega-3s found in fish, nuts, and seeds. Processed foods and sugar are triggers for inflammation, so I limit them as much as possible.

Explore Alternative Physical Therapies. Chiropractic adjustments focused on realigning my spine and improving nerve function, which eased tension and reduced some of the shooting pains in my arms and hands. Osteopathy addressed not just my joints but also the soft tissues and muscles contributing to my discomfort. Regular massage therapy helped further relax muscles and improve circulation, supporting overall healing and alleviating pain. Through targeting manipulation, stretching and pressure techniques, these therapies helped release tension, improve my mobility and stimulate my body's natural healing process.

Reduce Alcohol Consumption. I recognised that alcohol can be a major contributor to inflammation, so I cut down significantly. Reducing alcohol has not only lessened inflammation but also improved my sleep and overall energy levels.

Regular Movement and Stretching. I can’t overstate the importance of daily movement. Gentle stretching, yoga and low-impact exercises have improved my mobility, alleviated pain and helped me feel more energised. (Regular exercise helps regulate your immune system, lowers levels of inflammatory markers and improves circulation, which aids in flushing out toxins and reducing chronic pain.)

Prioritise Sleep and Stress Management. Quality sleep allows the body to repair itself. I’ve made it a point to create a calming evening routine and I incorporate deep breathing and mindfulness techniques to manage stress.

Marine Collagen Supplementation. As mentioned, this was a game-changer for me. It supports my bones, joints and even my skin, making a tangible difference in how I feel every day.

Tackling the Root Causes, Not Just Symptoms

Living with chronic inflammation has taught me that true healing doesn’t come from just reaching into the medicine cabinet. By understanding what triggers inflammation in my body and addressing it through diet, hydration, supplementation and lifestyle shifts, I’ve regained a level of health and vitality I once thought was out of reach. If you’re experiencing similar symptoms, I encourage you to explore these options with an open mind. You might just find relief where you least expect it.

A Holistic Approach: Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT)

In addition to lifestyle changes, I’ve discovered that Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) also plays a crucial role in tackling the root causes of chronic issues. As an RTT Clinical Hypnotherapist, I can help you or someone you know release deep-seated emotional and physical blocks during hypnosis. RTT allows you to gain insight into subconscious patterns that may be contributing to your inflammation, facilitating a powerful and lasting release. This holistic approach has transformed my life and it can do the same for you. You see, the thing is; change is much easier when you’re dialoguing with your subconscious (emotional) mind, rather than your conscious (logical) mind. After all, understanding is power, and understanding in hypnosis is the most wonderfully transformative, liberating power there is.

Ready to step through the mirror? Great! Book a FREE Consultation Call with me now so we can explore a way out together.

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Photo Credit: Tolga Ulkan