Challenges Beyond the Challenges....

There are certain times when it is more prevalent as to what is in charge, the mind over the body or the body over the mind!

I have really found this past three months to be a real emotional challenge, it has taken a lot more effort to complete tasks than I'm sure it ever has. The last two sleep deprived months have not helped my energy level any. I spent February 16th-20th in an environment which did not agree with my respiratory system and have since then been battling lung irritation and sinus infection; my nights are restless with coughing and my days are long, draggy and I can hardly wait to hit the pillow, which is where the cycle continues itself. I can't seem to sleep enough hours, to catch up and everyday seems to be getting tougher.

I realize the importance of sleep, which makes my issue that much more of a challenge to overcome. Sleep deprivation can have many side affects on the human body; inability to function at work, mood swings, lack of focus, weight gain (adrenal gland activity) - cholesterol level increases and eventually cardiac issues; stress of all sorts - body chemistry imbalances, organ stress and excessive activity.

My knee and hip inflammation/ pain has also been a side affect to the sleep deprivation and in turn has added to my lack of sleep with the throbbing pain and continued flipping and flopping which is associated with this.

At this point I'm going around and around within this vicious non-mending cycle. I went to the doctor today and was told that my respiratory condition has to run its course (it has been more like a marathon...)My hope is that this respiratory infection subsides and my sleeps get better. I purchased arch supports for my shoes today with hopes that I can alleviate some ankle, knee, hip and back pain and stress. And by the end of the week the ambient temperature could be in the double digits....the sun will be refreshing to the soul. The potential outcome looks very inviting!

Darcy Regier, Silent River Kung Fu, UBBT, Stony Plain, Alberta, Canada.