Thriving Through Illness

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is convalescence so important?

All good therapies/treatments require a period of rest after the treatment in order that the individual can take up the work or message of the treatment. Think about massage, compresses, therapeutic eurythmy, acupuncture, and yoga to name but a few. Illness is a treatment for the body. We must allow time so that we fully take up the great work of cleaning up the body has just performed. Sometimes one can lose up to 10% of their weight in an illness. It is during convalescence that this is regained. We must, therefore, be mindful of this period and treat it with the reverence and gentleness it deserves. Our culture does not often support convalescence so it is particularly challenging to carve this out for yourself and loved ones. The danger of inadequate convalescence is that the work of illness is wasted or, one once again becomes ill soon after the previous illness. In this case, we can be sure the illness will be more severe and longer.

There is all this talk about inflammation being bad and you say it’s good, what do mean?

When we are acutely ill our body inflames in an effort to rid itself of toxins and bring itself back to balance. This is a good thing. The body is strengthening itself through this process. When acute inflammation is inappropriately managed our body may not fully rid itself of these toxins. It is here that the beginnings of chronic inflammation occur. Once one is chronically inflamed you are correct, this is a sign of imbalance and poor health. We want to encourage the body to have a thorough acute illness so that we may avoid chronic inflammation.

How can I find an Anthroposophic Nurse or Doctor in my area?

The website of the Physicians Association for Anthroposophic Medicine has a list of doctors by region. For nurses, check out the North American Anthroposophic Nurses Association and connect with the organization for a nurse near you.

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