Taking care of yourself (Yoga, exercise, the clinic)

   Today was day two of the Yogathon that the NMSA (naturopathic medical student association) is running this week. This marathon involves Yoga from 7:30-8:30am every morning of this week. Though you don't have to do it all, I decided to challenge myself and do it, along with support from a couple friends who are also doing it. It's relaxing and really good for you (especially all the stretching is good for my chronic neck problems), and not to mention there's a prize draw for anyone who goes to all 5 days. Since I'm talking about this, I want to quickly share the nonprofit charity one of the yoga teachers is part of called Share The Love Yoga. You can read about it, but it's a pretty cool organization focused on providing affordable and accessible yoga, which we know is an amazing form of exercise, meditation and just great for taking care of yourself in general.

Savasana, my favourite yoga pose because it is pure relaxation (not to mention final savasana means the hard work is over!)

                       
   After Homeopathy today (another loaded class --> learned about posology and miasms today, as well as going over a case we did in class), I had my usual clinic appointment (I go almost every Tuesday). It has been really great going to the clinic so often while here. It's something I never really did before, but it's great to have this opportunity to take care of myself and keep on checking in on how I am doing. Not to mention it is a useful opportunity to get more time observing what naturopathic care is like but from the patient point of view. Anyway today was interesting because we actually did more of a homeopathic intake (most of my treatment has been acupuncture, massage and spinal manipulations for the neck pain). It was very different to what I'm used to, but I'm interested in seeing where it goes with my intern finding a good remedy for me. It was also a nice experience just talking about a lot of random stuff. It was very relaxing in a different way, and felt good to express myself in a completely non-judgemental and safe environment. I also ended up having a little bit of acupuncture. Today was interesting because it was the first time I wasn't on my back on the treatment table (I was sitting in a chair just answering questions), so I actually saw the needles for the first time. They aren't really that scary or anything, and don't really hurt that bad, in fact the one he put in my forehead hurt the least, and that was the one I was most worried about.

   Finally after my appointment I had the first meeting of the Dragon Boat Club! (super excited!) We're not going to be doing any paddle practices until at least Februrary, but it was good to meet some of the people interested in it and start working out together. We ran outside for around 20 minutes, and then did some working out in the gym. Wow have I gotten out of shape! This is definitely going to be a good experience to get back in shape, and I'm really excited about getting out there, especially in the summer when the races come.