Redefining "WELLNESS"

My new definition and an invitation to join me in using it

I keep trying to catch my breath — to slow down long enough to stay in my body and live with intention for a moment or two. I also keep trying to build a routine — a structure — just some practicum of order and organization to my existence as I move into this new career of writing and working at Harvard.

Of course, life has other plans for me. Night terrors keep raging each night, even with my daily plunges, and my days are continually evolving as Dave and I weather Waffle’s injury and her need for new routines and constant companionship.

Amidst the symptoms and ever-changing day-to-day this week, I kept finding myself in a state of frustration and self-hatred. I kept asking myself over and over again — When am I just going to get my sh*t together and live like everyone else I know? And when on Earth am I going to be well — actually well?

As I sat in my plunge tub each day this week, I thought a lot about these questions. After breaking up the ice with an ax on Thursday and hopping in w…