March is National Kidney Month, a time that holds a deeply personal significance for me. It's a reminder of my journey through loss, discovery, and the transformative power of yoga in the face of kidney health challenges. This story begins in April 2017, with the passing of my mother due to kidney failure, a moment that marked the beginning of a new chapter in my own health narrative.

A Turning Point in My Health Journey

Just a few months after my mother's passing from kidney failure, in July 2017, my own health journey took an unexpected turn. I learned of kidney issues, culminating in a diagnosis of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in early 2018. This rare kidney disease affects about 1 in 50,000 individuals and is characterized by scarring in the tiny filters (glomeruli) within the kidneys, hindering their ability to remove waste and excess fluid from the blood. Potential complications include proteinuria, edema, high blood pressure, fatigue, and increased risk of infections.

While my Stage 1 diagnosis meant the condition was in its early stages, even at this level, FSGS can progress and lead to kidney failure if not managed carefully. This realization set me on a path of vigilant health management and lifestyle adjustments, and I'm happy to share that these efforts have paid off. Since 2018, I've successfully kept the FSGS at Stage 1, demonstrating the positive impact of proactive measures. Despite a slight increase in blood pressure, other markers remain stable, offering a testament to the power of taking control of our health.

Embracing Change for My Health

Reducing stress and protecting my kidney function became paramount after my diagnosis. Following my doctor's specific guidance to limit strenuous physical activity, I knew a significant life change was necessary. In August 2018, I said goodbye to my demanding corporate interior design career, a decision that wasn't easy but essential for prioritizing my health.

This shift opened the door to yoga, a practice I initially approached with hesitation due to my physical limitations. My kidney specialist further advised against activities like exceeding a 3.0 walking pace on the treadmill, making traditional gym workouts off-limits. However, with its gentle movements and focus on mindful breathing, yoga offered a promising alternative. Starting with online classes tailored to my needs, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery that proved to be more transformative than I ever imagined.

Yoga: A Source of Strength and Healing

Transitioning from online to group yoga sessions at the YMCA, I discovered a newfound strength and a sense of community. Yoga, alongside mild walking, began to positively impact my energy levels and overall well-being, inspiring me to share the benefits of this practice with others. This inspiration led to the soft launch of my yoga business in 2020, amidst the global challenges of COVID, and its official establishment in January 2022.

Healing and Awareness: Navigating Lifestyle Changes

The progress in my kidney health by 2023 has been a beacon of hope, illuminating the holistic benefits of yoga, meditation, and crucial lifestyle changes. This journey has been eye-opening, particularly in understanding the impact of Western medicine on our health. The shared narrative between my mother and me—her battle with kidney damage due to steroids and my own issues stemming from NSAID overuse after a cheerleading accident—has underscored the importance of being acutely aware of what we introduce into our bodies. This realization led to significant changes in my lifestyle; I now closely monitor my salt and potassium intake, have eliminated meat and alcohol from my diet, and am more mindful of everything I consume. These adjustments stem from a place of increased awareness, learning the hard way the importance of understanding the substances we put into our bodies.

Educating the Next Generation: Instilling Mindfulness and Awareness

This heightened awareness extends beyond my health journey to the lessons I impart to my teenage daughter. The importance of mindful consumption—whether it's food, medications, or what we apply to our skin—has become a central theme in our conversations. My experiences have taught me the critical role of awareness in managing health and preventing potential issues. By sharing these lessons with my daughter, I aim to foster an environment where informed decisions about health and wellness are second nature. It's about more than just navigating my health challenges; it's about ensuring that my daughter, and hopefully future generations, possess the knowledge and mindfulness to make healthier choices for their bodies and the environment.

Conclusion: From Personal Healing to Collective Wellness

National Kidney Month serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize our well-being. My journey with FSGS taught me the importance of paying attention to my body, listening to medical advice, and seeking supportive practices. While navigating my specific needs, yoga emerged as a transformative path, emphasizing physical flexibility, mental clarity, and stress reduction.

My story isn't a "one size fits all" approach, but a testament to the power of informed and holistic well-being. Whether you're facing health challenges or simply curious about mindful practices, remember: support, guidance, and shared wisdom enrich our journeys. We should move towards a future where informed wellness becomes an integrated part of our lives, empowering us to collectively thrive.