Healing occurs when we are in the correct relationship with ourselves. In other words, we are able to heal when all levels of our human system - our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual selves - are all in balance.

Imbalance within ourselves comes from many sources. Most commonly, the stress of relationships, family, work, and expectations we have of ourselves can cause imbalances in our relationship with ourselves. It is easy to become entangled in negative thought patterns - we may replay situations over and over again in our minds in attempt to imagine different outcomes, or we may perpetuate the victimization we feel in various circumstances.

Carrying strong negative feelings, such as anger and resentment, causes physical symptoms and diseases. Harboring negative thoughts benefits no one! In order to move from imbalance to balance within ourselves, we must let go of old grudges, anger, frustrations, and hurtful incidents. Letting go means forgiving.

Forgiveness is not:

• Pretending everything is fine
• Repressing anger or hurt feelings
• Necessarily reconciling or having contact with the offender
• Something you can be pressured to do
• Forgetting. You can learn to remember the past without dwelling on the emotions!

There is evidence that forgiveness can lead to a healthier and happier life. Dr. P. Pietrini, MD, PhD. is chair of biochemistry at the University of Pisa, Italy. He used an MRI to observe different parts of the brain. Parts of the brain were activated when subjects contemplated forgiveness that were not activated with thoughts of revenge and retaliation. This is physical evidence that our thoughts cause physical changes in the body.

Traditional medicine may help you cope with the physical symptoms of imbalance within yourself. As a Holistic Nurse, I will work with the whole person - your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual realms - in order to help you make positive changes, take control of your life, and find balance within yourself.