Rod Chant Counselling
625 11th Avenue V9W 4G5 Campbell River, BC, Canada

Chronic health conditions and the healing power of Sweet Surrender Four years ago I experienced a rare form of Stroke that ended a very significant part of my outer life, that being physical activity, as in running, biking, playing soccer. I was very fortunate, during my time in rehabilitation institution, to find myself surrounded by heros’. What made them heros to me was despite obstacles and limitations much more significant than my own, they weren’t just coping with th...eir situation, they actually seemed to be thriving while others with lesser (lesser to me anyway) complaints seemed stuck or angry and miserable. Given my background as a clinical social worker I couldn’t help but wonder what was the difference between those who seemed to thrive verses those who seemed to be stuck in their circumstances and what actually is the true meaning of healing? I now understand came that it’s less about mending bones and strengthening muscles, but rather it’s more about acceptance and a term I’ve come to know called sweet surrender. A recent article in Psychology Today (April 2016 Toni Bernhard) describes it nicely; here are a few excerpts: There’s no reason to jump to the conclusion that chronic illness (which includes chronic pain) has ruined your life. A good life can take many forms. Try giving ingently and with kindnessto what you cannot control. A dose of self-compassion can change your perspective in an instant...Giving up drains your energy. It can also exacerbate symptoms because there’s an element of anger in it, and anger can lead to painful tightening of muscles, digestive disturbances, and sleep disruption. By contrast, giving in brings relief from the exhausting (and ultimately losing) battle against the turn your life has taken. It makes you feel better, both mentally and physically, to never side against yourself. You could turn that into a vow: I will never side against myself. On TODAY SHOW (May 11, 2016) Health and Wellness segment, Meredith Vierna revisited Charla Nash. Charla lost her nose, eyes, lips and eye sight as the result of an attack by a Chimpanzee. More recently, following facial transplants, her body is beginning to reject the transplants. When asked how she was doing she responded by saying I wish i had more Gas, more showers, more care but you know we can’t have everything. But I’m thankful for what I do have...I hear the birds singing...I can feel the Sun. And it’s like another good day. Let’s get started. Who can deny it? Despite her limitations Charla Nash is healed...inside. She has learned to accept her condition and more forward in her life and find new ways to thrive. See more

With the experiencing of a Stroke, I'm finding that a chronic health condition is only a breakdown in the physical sense; However if accepting of life circumstances, it can also be the opening of a door to new possibilities. I feel fortunate I am a clinical counsellor. My work continues.