Life Lessons from Headaches

I've been mulling over this post for a while but hadn't gotten the push to sit down and write it... until today. I woke up early this morning with an intense headache that felt like a small creature was trying to crawl its way out of my left eye. After 3 naps, 2 sumatriptan, an excess of caffeine, a trip to the bathroom to throw up and 11 hours of frustration, I'm finally starting to feel better.

My battles against my head aren't normally this bad. However, regular headaches have been a part of my life for a few years now (passed down from my sweet mother's genetics). There is rarely a day that I'm not conscious of my body and making minor adjustments to try to prevent an attack. 

I don't tell you this to get sympathy. There are far worse ailments of the body and mind than this, but headaches are (and I think will continue to be) one of my trials.

And as with all trials come blessings and insights, and I wanted to share a few of the lessons I have learned from headaches:

1. To be aware of, take care of and appreciate my body.

Since suffering from regular headaches, I have become much more in tune with my body. I have come to better recognize its unique needs and I'm better able to fulfill those needs of adequate sleep, hydration and nutrition. While sometimes living in this "box" of routine can seem limiting, I know that this is necessary for my body to function properly.

However, my efforts are often futile and the pain develops anyway, which is incredibly frustrating. But I have come to appreciate my body, even with its flaws. These experiences make up my human experience, and I'm grateful to have a body capable of feeling both pain and joy.

2. To empathize with others' pain.

I can't tell you how many conversations I've had with my mother about headaches. We bond over our shared trial, and I'm so grateful for any opportunity to come closer to that wonderful woman. And I've met countless others who struggle with migraines. Without having these experiences, I may not be as understanding.

And this applies to more than just those with migraines. There are a plethora of other internal battles being fought against depression, anxiety, diabetes and more. Through my experience, I have realized that not all wounds are visible, and I am better to able relate to others.

3. To make the good days count.

I have a hard time sitting still. My favorite days are the days when I can go to bed feeling like I've accomplished something, whether that be a homework assignment, a pile of dishes or even a walk around the block. So days like today (spent on the couch skipping all responsibility) are difficult for me--not just because of the physical pain but because I also ache for the lost time that I could have spent making memories and making a difference for someone else. So I try to appreciate the days when I feel good and to make every minute count.

4. To respect my limitations.

But I'm still gonna have bad days. And that's okay. Sometimes I won't be able to cross everything off my to-do list or to do much of anything at all. And that's okay. I need to rest when I need rest and understand that I'm not superwoman, no matter how hard I try to be.

5. To ask for help.

And when the bad days come, I have learned to ask for help. I'm grateful for modern medicine that provides relief. I'm grateful for a loving husband who is always kind and patient during my attacks. I'm grateful for my mother who offers advice. And I'm grateful for Heavenly Parents who listen to all my incoherent, tear-ridden prayers and give me strength and comfort.

While I definitely don't enjoy headaches, I am grateful for all that they have taught me.

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Here is an infographic I made for a design class last semester. If anyone else struggles with similar trials, know that you are not alone.