Change

“Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous in the end” – Robin Sharma

By nature I like routine, I like things in their place, I need a plan, need to know where I’m going, what’s happening next (Luke is the spontaneous one in our relationship).

It’s human nature to fear the unknown, we are wired to expect the worst in uncertain situations.  However, despite the fear of change, we have made the decision to move home to New Zealand at the end of the year.  We have been in Australia for seven years, and now that I have finished my degree we feel the time is right to start a new chapter.

I have moved around a lot, and each and every time is just as stressful as the last.  In fact, it is usually when I have an IBD flare (this time I am looking after my nervous system better to hopefully prevent it happening again).

While I am surrounded by chaos I am keeping sane by taking time out each day to do something I enjoy doing, whenever I feel the stress creeping in I do some breathing exercises to regulate my nervous system, I am making sure I am eating regular and nutritious meals, and I am keeping up my exercise. 

A new breathing technique I have been using lately is a free flow inhale and exhale (no pause at the end of each inhale or exhale).  As you inhale count 5,4,3,2,1, and then as you exhale count 7,6,5,4,3,2,1.  It uses the idea that the exhale is longer than the inhale to destress and regulate the nervous system.  It has really been helpful these last few weeks!

What does this move mean for my business?  Well, I will continue to see patients online from now until I get set up in a clinic, with a break over Christmas and New Year.

And what will 2023 bring?  Continue doing what I love, helping people improve their health and wellbeing.  Maybe some post grad study.  I have a monthly newsletter (you can sign up to it here) and some recipe books  in the works.  More work expanding and growing my business. 

Australia has been an adventure, we have travelled all over, I did a degree!.  I have met some of the most amazing people, many of whom I will remain close to. 

Soon the adventure in New Zealand begins.  The wilderness of the South Island is calling. 

Change – it’s inevitable, it’s stressful, it’s exciting.