I have lived with Endometriosis since the approximate age of 25. I have also lived with acne-prone skin and hyper-pigmented acne scars since since the age of 12.
How has your relationship with your body changed because of those challenges?
There have been times when my Endometrial pains and associated mood flare-ups have been so bad that I have considered having my ovaries removed. Luckily, through the practice of Asana (physical practice of yoga postures) I have managed to control my mood imbalances and my endometrial pains for the most part. Flare-ups do occur occasionally depending on what I’ve eaten or how stressful work and life in general have been but it’s reassuring to know that there are tools I can access in order to take control of my pain and associated mood flare-ups. I am still learning how to live in and with my blemished skin 🙂
What words did you choose to describe how you want to feel in your body, and why did you choose them?
I chose the words Free, Strong and Calm.
I have 2 tattoos and I plan on adding more to my collection. I am part of a culture to which tattoos are, for the most part, taboo – especially where women are concerned. I chose the word Free because I regard my tattoos as being beautiful works of art which are symbolic of who I am as well symbolic of my beliefs about my body, my history and my culture. I want to be free of the need to hide my tattoos in order to accommodate other people’s approval.
I chose the word Strong because it is important to me to feel strong in my body, my heart and my mind especially when I have endometrial pain flare-ups and associated mood flare-ups.
I chose the word Calm because I strive to one day be unphased by the challenges that life throws at me.
What advice would you give to your younger self about body image?
You body is a temple for the Goddess that lives within — treat it right. And remember that you are so much more than the skin that you live in.
