Five Things To Do Everyday When Living with Epilepsy

I have lived with epilepsy for nearly a decade now. Wow, how fast time goes. Time opens your eyes and imparts wisdom, if you let it.

Epilepsy is a complex condition. Testing all who are affected, physically, mentally and emotionally, to a point of feeling drained. It is not uncommon to feel powerless over certain circumstances or even disconnected from activities you once enjoyed. Not to worry! There are a multitude of things that we all can do to positively power through our epilepsy challenges.

One thing that I’ve learned along my journey is that epilepsy, much like life, is unpredictable, and you can’t always predict which way the wind will blow. One of the most difficult facets of this journey is being overwhelmed with the idea that we have no control of the ship in which we sail. How we move forward living with epilepsy.

Actually, we do! There are some very helpful things that we can do everyday to positively power through our epilepsy challenges.

Here we go!

1. Affirmation

Word and thought carries life or death. They have the power to build up or tear down. Both affect our emotions and the way our brain works. So speak positivity, think positivity. Following a seizure, at any point you find yourself feeling blue, if you’re having a good seizure-free streak, say “I am strong. Epilepsy does not define me.” or “Epilepsy may be tough, but I am tougher!” It is declarations such as these that crumple up and throw away thoughts of sorrow or distress. You will find your mind gravitating towards positive word and thought. Each day, speak your positive affirmation out loud. With confidence. Think, meditate on your positive affirmation whole heartedly. You’ll find that in time, you’ll be feeling nourished by your word and thought.

2. Drink Water

Are you drinking enough water? Especially while taking medication(s)? Over 70% of our body is composed of water and every function in our body depends on it, including the function of the brain and the nervous system. The brain is one of the most important organs which keeps us strong and provides us with energy. We need about 85% of water, which is a huge amount of water, so that the brain can function properly. Water supplies the brain with energy for all brain functions, including thinking and memory processes. Basic H2O. The Clark Kent. The Superman.

3. Eat Healthy

Take charge of your health and well-being. There are many reasons why we should pay attention to what we eat. The processed, low-variety foods many of us consume regularly may be convenient and delicious, but the reality is that they compromise our health. We especially need to pay attention to what we eat when we are not well so we can give our bodies the nutrients it needs to fight back. When you choose to see your food as medicine, it helps you make better decisions about what (and how) to eat in order to make the best decisions for your own well-being.

4. Laugh

Though epilepsy may be in your life, don’t forget laugh. Even if you have to give it all you’ve got. Laughter decreases stress hormones, relaxes the whole body and even triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Returning to number one, remind yourself that “Epilepsy cannot steal your joy away!”

5. Pay it Forward

When you perform a selfless action or thought, it gives a real sense of satisfaction and lasting happiness. Now, what exactly is true selflessness? Selflessness means we act not expecting compensation or recognition. If we give to others and expect any form of recognition or returned favor, this is not paying it forward. True selflessness means, that we perform a selfless action with no intention of anyone taking notice. We identify/empathize with others and the challenges they face. Humbling ourselves to help them in their time of need.

Do you have things that you do each day that help you along your journey? Share in the comments section below!