Watching a terrapin waddling on dry land is more amusing than inspiring. Slow and deliberate, every step is an effort. (That also describes me walking on a “bad fibro day.”)
Put in the water, the terrapin becomes agile, elegant, and comfortable. Put me in the hydrotherapy pool, and a similar transformation occurs. I love hydrotherapy! Today was the first day back after a two month break: the water was deliciously warm and supportive, and the exercises (which are very painful done out of the water) have been relaxing my joints, easing my back, and allowing my muscles to work more normally.
Hydrotherapy- simply the best!
Our National Health Service may be stretched and under-funded, but when it functions at its best the NHS is unbeatable.
Before you can access the hydro pool, the physios assess your condition and then work out a short programme of repetitive exercises. These stretch, support, and challenge the malfunctioning body. The body weight is lifted by the water, and the heat relaxes the body. It’s a wonderful feeling.
Why do I need hydrotherapy? Because my body is damaged. Nerve-responses are out of kilter; the pain response system is on overdrive, permanently. Brain function is sub-standard, and the memory gets confused.
Accepting help and encouragement is sensible, even wise. And I’m grateful.
Physical ailments are common to every one of us. Nobody tells us off or looks down on us when we are obviously unwell. Yet not all disabilities are visible, and we all need to be grace-full when we don’t what it’s like “on the inside” for the sufferer. Supporting people through mental health problems is vital, if difficult and challenging.
Another area of struggle is spiritual health. I’m not sure that hydrotherapy can sort that out! But it can help with overall wellness and conditioning. (I suppose baptism could be described as therapy?)
Whether our pain is physical, mental, or spiritual- or all three- the first step is to be honest about the need: and the second is to admit we need help.
“Lord Jesus- a little help over here, please.”
The Reflectionary 