04/06/2026
"I'm useless."
"I'm a bad Mum."
"I'm so unfit."
"I must be going mad."
Those were just some of the thoughts that played on repeat in my head around 15 years ago.
As I approached my 40s, I seemed to have everything I had worked for – a teaching career, a wonderful family, a home and security. Then I became seriously unwell with an invisible illness and was eventually diagnosed with M.E.
For six months, I was largely confined to my bed. Even when I returned to work, it was never full-time. Standing was painful, and hearing my three-year-old say, "It's okay Mummy, I'll hold your hand so you don't fall," broke my heart.
I could have given up.
Instead, I kept looking for ways to help myself. I found a supportive GP who introduced me to mindfulness, an online community of people recovering from M.E., and eventually Reiki.
Reiki came into my life during one of the most challenging periods I had ever experienced. Alongside health struggles, there were family challenges, a marriage ending, and uncertainty about the future.
The first thing that changed wasn't my health. It was my thinking.
Gradually, my confidence returned. My energy improved. I began making different choices.
Looking back, I could criticise myself for reaching burnout. But I was doing what many of us do – working hard, raising a family, supporting others and trying to do everything.
Now I know that although I can do everything, I don't need to.
My children will always come first, but I've learned that looking after myself isn't selfish. It's essential.
Today, I'm fitter than I've ever been. My children are young adults and a huge part of my life. I'm a Reiki and Crystal Master Teacher, but that knowledge didn't come from being perfect. It came from making mistakes, learning lessons, and discovering the importance of self-care.
In many ways, living through those challenges shaped the person I am today.
So when you see someone's polished photos and success online, remember: there is often a story of struggle, resilience and growth behind them.
💜 Be kind to yourself. You never know how far you've already come.
