2 weeks post reconstructive surgery...and, acupuncture.

Today marks two weeks since my reconstructive surgery.  Everything is healing well.  The top half of my body feels pretty good.  My legs on the other hand are still very sore where the fat was harvested from.  Ouch!  I'm still stuck wearing compression garments on the legs for another week, day and night.  I'll be so happy to rid myself of these garments - I picture myself busting into a rousing rendition of the song "Freedom" (think Aretha Franklin).

In the past week I had my first acupuncture session.  It was an interesting experience.  The focus of the first session was primarily on hot flashes, insomnia and general well-being.   The needles were placed in my legs and feet - from the knee down - and in my arms - from the elbows down.  I did not feel most of the needles going in, but there were a couple that I really felt - although once in, the sensation subsided rapidly.  Once the needles were in place, I was left in a relaxing, dark room with meditation music playing in the background.  I think I actually fell asleep during the 30 minutes that I lie there.  The needles were then removed - painlessly.  That night, my insomnia was actually worse and I had terrible hot flashes and night sweats.  I called the acupuncturist the next day and she said that this was not uncommon in that it sometimes takes a few sessions for the body to open up and respond to the treatments.  I go back again on Monday.  I will give it a few more sessions and see what happens.

One more week of taking it easy.  Restricted to light walking, no lifting, pushing or pulling.  At three weeks I will be able to begin to do more and I am so very anxious to do so.  I am especially going through hot bath withdrawals as I cannot yet submerse in bath water - restricted to showers only.  Which brings me to:  Detox Bath.

We are surrounded by toxins and chemicals every day.  They are in our drinking water, beauty products, laundry soap and cleaning products, just to name a few.  A detox bath is a great way to help rid our body of toxins and help us to feel healthier and balance the bodies ph.  Here is a good recipe for a detox bath:

2 cups Epsom salts (draws toxins from the body)
1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (soothes skin and balances ph)
1/2 cup bentonite clay (stimulates lymphatic system to cleanse the skin)
5 -10 drops essential oil (I like lavender)

Soak for 20 minutes.  Drink plenty of water afterwards.

Enjoy!