Nurture with Nature

I went to the Bahamas to relax and get out of Chicago for a few days. So far it was one of my favorite self care treatments. My friend Jessica and I were able to relax and soak up the sun, kayak, sail and enjoy the Caribbean blue waters. The air was so different from Chicago, or maybe it was just me. For the first time I went wig-less from start to finish. It felt amazing! My white hair actually has filled in and thickened but its still bright white so it may have appeared intentional. Jessica said it looked "punk". At least 15 different people told me I looked awesome! I was so shocked each time but truly flattered. I couldn't believe how great it felt and how liberating. This experience has translated to home. I no longer intend to wear a wig to hide (but I will for fun if I want to).

Traditionally I have used travel to get in touch with my authentic self. In this case it has done so and given me an inner strength I didn't know existed. I could never have predicted how far I have come in terms of my hair loss and self acceptance. I love it!

Shaitsu

Yesterday I went for a Shiatsu massage. It was fantastic. It is supposed to be like a massage version of acupuncture, but to me it felt like doing yoga without having to exert myself. The experience was so wonderful due to the nature of the masseuse, Eivor. She provides a comfortable mat on the floor and stretches you out from head to toe. Her technique was so calming and zen I felt I could take a nap right on the floor. We spoke a bit about my having alopecia and she was so supportive and encouraging. She reminded me about how interesting this journey has been and how far I have come in terms of recovery in both mind and body. I anxiously await my next appointment so I can see my new friend. I took several of her business cards and plan on encouraging my friends to go to her. She was reasonably priced but worth so much more.

It still amazes me that I have been so lucky through this process. I have been getting all of the right care at just the time I needed it. The law of attraction at work?

Hair update: My scalp has a ton of life on it right now. It is even (though short and fine) seems to be sprouting new terminal-esque hairs daily. Only time will truly tell but I am encouraged by the growth and people like Eivor, reminding me that I am on the right track.