Shifting our mindset towards long term solutions

In 2008, when I was diagnosed with Grave’s disease, an autoimmune disease of the thyroids, the endocrinologist suggested treating it with thyrostatics. He recommended a high dose for at least a year. Apparently, my thyroid levels were concerning.

However, as a trained dentist I knew the ins and outs of conventional medicine where the symptoms are treated rather than the cause of the disease.

I chose to interpret ‘dis-ease’ literally, sensing a message from my body. There was an evident imbalance that I had neglected for too long, manifesting in the most obvious way – a thick neck. When I looked at the way my disease was behaving, it seemed like it was telling me I had suppressed anger, similar to how Germans say ‘to have a thick neck’ when you’re really mad.

I gave myself a chance and opted to treat myself – without medication. Mentally, it wasn’t as easy as it may sound. The endocrinologist didn’t make it easier. He didn’t like that I wasn’t compliant and rejected his expert recommendation. When I left his office, he said that my choice was life-threatening. He wasn’t wrong as the thyroids are the main motor of the body in terms of metabolism.

Upon introspection, I recognized that I had ignored myself, my own needs, desires, and expression. This realization prompted a transformative shift in my lifestyle, diet, and habits. While I had already started soul-searching in my late 20s, this experience ignited a newfound passion for exploring my psyche and spirit.