Today was a very big day for me - a very big win, a measure of success, accomplishment, and it felt SOOOO good.
Last year I had to miss out on most of my usual summer activities. Even before then I had to take a major step back in overall activities.
I've been visiting my folks for the last couple of days, and tonight I managed to do something that I haven't been able to do in two years.
I got to go KAYAKING!!!!
This is a pass-time that I really truly love and has always helped me to feel peaceful. Of course, lifting and carrying the kayak is out of the question, but my dad was able to do that part for me.
Not only did I get to participate in a beloved activity, but it also was MUCH less of a strain on my body than I had expected. I thought that within ten minutes, I'd be in tears from the arthritis in my shoulder blades.
Just being able to hang out and paddle slowly on a very quiet lake was absolutely perfect. The best part? I was worn out, but had NO increased pain right after. Zero. Zip. Zilch.
I can confidently say that not only do I still love kayaking, but that I am ABLE to kayak without creating more pain for myself. It will, in fact, be GOOD for me, physically. It will help build up some muscle tone in my arms and keep me active - not to mention the positive psychological and emotional effects that paddling provides for me personally.
This was a big win for me!
At this time, I am proud to say that slowly riding a bicycle, paddling a kayak on a lake, and yoga are all activities that I can confidently enjoy without worry of increased pain.
I am a happy girl.