I’m dreaming of a migraine cure…I have had an uptick in the number of migraines the last few weeks, disrupting work, social plans, and holiday preparations. Each pain-free day is a blessing, each migraine an obstacle to be creatively overcome. As this is the third year of living with chronic migraine since I was a teenager (I have had episodic migraine for the past 25 years), my attitude is different now. With time, I have made peace with the debilitation; it has been a lesson in slowing down, establishing boundaries, and focusing on self-care. I have learned to prioritize my mental and physical health, recognizing the importance of listening to my body’s signals. I’ve also explored various coping strategies, from mindfulness techniques to gentle yoga, which have become essential tools in navigating my daily life. The experience has fostered a deeper understanding of resilience and an appreciation for the support of loved ones, who often remind me that it’s okay to take a step back and recharge when needed. Each challenge I face only strengthens my resolve to find joy in the little things, making every moment I can enjoy pain-free even more precious.
the best medicine
One of the best medicines has been humor. Being able to find humor through the pain of migraine, with its ridiculous symptoms, such as limb numbness, slurred speech, and others, can make all the difference. This ability to laugh at the absurdity of the situation not only lightens the emotional burden but also creates a sense of connection with others who may not understand what you’re experiencing. Sharing funny anecdotes or finding a comedic angle in the midst of discomfort can uplift your spirits and help you navigate the challenging moments. Laughter at my slurred speech, for example, becomes a powerful tool, reminding us that even in our toughest battles, a little lightheartedness can provide solace and resilience.
Dreaming of
So here, constant reader, is a little song about migraine. This idea came to me this morning as I woke, still drugged from a severe hemiplegic migraine*, the kind that leaves shadows in its wake, with lingering pain and phantom numbness. I thought about how this condition weaves itself into the fabric of daily life, often unnoticed by those who have not experienced its grip. It’s a silent struggle that many face, yet seldom speak of, and through this song, I hope to convey not just the anguish but also the resilience found in enduring such hardships.
I recorded a spoken version so as not to cause you a migraine if you had to listen to my singing! To the tune of White Christmas.
I’m dreaming of a pain-free morning
Just like the ones I used to know
Where my head’s not pounding
And there’s no resounding
In a migraine-induced tableau.
I’m dreaming of a pain-free morning
With every ice pack that I try
May my days merry and bright
And may all my migraines take flight.
I’m dreaming of a cool, dark room
Just like the one that feels so nice
With the lights all dimmed down
In my comfy bed gown
And a migraine cure would be so wise.
I’m dreaming of a pain-free morning
With every pill that I ingest
May your migraines all say goodbye
And may we finally get some rest.
Joyfully relaxing
I hope you got a chuckle and wish you a pain-free holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and wonderful memories. May this time be an opportunity to relax and reconnect with loved ones, savoring every special moment together. Embrace the warmth of the festivities, enjoy delicious treats, and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of this season. Here’s to creating unforgettable experiences that will linger in your heart long after the holidays are over.
Once this migraine finally leaves, I’ll eagerly get back to recording some Christmas meditations that I’ve been planning for weeks. These meditations are designed to bring peace and reflection during the bustling holiday season, allowing listeners to unwind and connect with the joy and spirit of Christmas.
Meanwhile, please enjoy the following guided meditations, which are perfect for this season of introspection and renewal: Warming the Spirit During the Winter Months, designed to help you find comfort and warmth amidst the cold, and the Winter Solstice Meditation, which celebrates the return of light and the gradual lengthening of days, offering a moment of reflection and a chance to set intentions for the year ahead.
Blessing for a peaceful holiday season filled with joy and warmth as we gather with family and friends to create lasting memories that light our hearts, embrace generosity and kindness, and find solace in the season’s beauty. May we experience moments of reflection and gratitude, cherishing the love around us while looking forward to a bright and hopeful new year ahead.
*Hemiplegic migraine is a rare and severe type of migraine characterized by temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, typically accompanied by intense headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. This condition can also involve neurological symptoms such as visual disturbances, difficulty speaking, or tingling sensations. The symptoms can mimic a stroke, making it essential to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.