Understanding Dis-Ease: Embracing the Journey to Wellness
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Chapter 1: The Concept of Dis-Ease
"Wait a minute! Why is there a hyphen in the title? I thought we were discussing disease, but now you’ve introduced 'dis-ease'," she inquired. If only life could be simplified by a mere hyphen.
Disease, according to Merriam-Webster, refers to "a condition of the living body or one of its parts that disrupts normal functioning and is usually marked by specific signs and symptoms," often interpreted as an illness or ailment. Others may refer to it as a "disorder," while Wikipedia describes disease as a detrimental divergence from what is perceived as normal.
However, if we delve into the origins of the word, we can dissect it into two parts: DIS and EASE. If "ease" signifies a particular state of comfort, then adding "dis" suggests discomfort, awkwardness, or being in an unworthy state. Could it be that we are perpetually in a state of dis-ease?
It all began when a friend introduced me to a meditation focusing on dis-ease, emphasizing the "dis" rather than the "ease" that typically characterizes the word. My mind was racing—was it overwhelmed or just in shock at this perspective? Suddenly, I recognized the significance of this small energy ball within me, a neglected itch that craved acknowledgment, yearning to be addressed and perhaps released. I was taken aback by the realization of how this dis-ease was affecting me.
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As I continued with the guided meditation, I focused on my breath, allowing that persistent energy ball to rest for the time being. However, just minutes after the meditation ended, it nudged me, either in thought or physically, reminding me, “Hey, you didn’t forget about me, did you?” I grasped the magnitude of the situation; even in those brief moments, this discomforting energy had intensified. Its presence became more vivid, contrasting sharply with the grayness of my life backdrop.
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I sat with this energy—this persistent annoyance occupying too much mental space—and listened closely. I was well-acquainted with the narratives of anxiety; I had worked diligently to replace "worry" with "wonder" in my life. I understood how easily my mind could spiral into ruminating thoughts, churning concerns until they became overwhelming. Recognizing that this agitation was not new, but rather long forgotten, I realized that I cherished the life I had carefully crafted.
When my mind engages in these patterns, it speaks a relentless language that affects my body, emotions, and overall mood. Therefore, I took time to sit in silence with this dis-ease, hoping to uncover the lessons it held for me.
Eventually, I managed to lift this ball of dis-ease, naming it aloud and learning to reframe my experiences to diminish its growing influence over my life. I embraced its presence, acknowledging what lay at its core and incorporating it into my existence. By articulating my priorities and recognizing what truly mattered to me, I could live according to the principles that significantly impacted my life.
With a final gesture, I released that tension-filled energy, expressing gratitude and granting it permission to fade until it was needed again. I acknowledged its role—it had prompted self-reflection.
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Now, I could return to the vibrantly chaotic world around me. I realized that the richness of my life had been overshadowed by that persistent discomfort. Although it may return in the future, I remain hopeful that by living in ease, I can navigate those moments, welcoming questions with curiosity and placing them appropriately, ensuring they do not overshadow the colorful tapestry of my life.