In the October forum we talked about Big and Small Health and the tyranny of wellness. Also, that true health means to be open to the diversity of experiences that we have.

We explored an individual’s experience of weakness from arthritis in their hands. Then in small groups we explored questions including: How do you deal with being held back by health issues and how significant is touch and movement in your health? In the discussion at the end we explored issues around expectations and responsibilities and the need for simplicity and play.

Arthritis Experience

This woman’s symptom experience was of having hands that get swollen and stiff, but no experience of pain. The symptoms especially occur when it is cold outside and lead to having trouble turning a key or zipping a jacket when the muscles just don’t work.

Paradox of Weakness

We explored many aspects of the symptom. These included the frustration of being weak and held back from being able to continue what she wanted to do. There was a critic that wanted her to shape up. A powerful aspect of the experience of the symptom was about being stiff and having to stop and wait which led to an awareness of needing to stand her ground. By listening to the wisdom to be found in aging and all that life has taught her she was reminded of being creative, her ability to find other options, as well as taking care of herself, wearing mittens, eating well, and being kind to herself.  Moving between all these parts resulted in a playful movement performance of different characters. She finished by reminding herself to believe in her own experience.

Finding Appreciation

In the forum we explored roles of expectations, pressure to do things and the judging that comes from this. Then we unfolded the various roles  and reactions after you get sick, afraid and life gets messy. The roles shifted from criticisms to genuine care and concern for each others’ health and vulnerabilities. A shift occurred allowing appreciation of ones accomplishments and the perseverance it takes in meeting expectations.  There was a part that was silly and slow and had loosen the communication format right from the beginning. It became impossible to ignore and helped the expectation side to relax a little. We became aware how we all share some kind of suffering and don’t know very much about each others lives.

If you like this post please share on facebook.