This wasn't the newsletter I had planned to send. At least I have one ready for next month. That one was almost ready at the end of last week, and after a few tweaks I planned to send it first thing Monday morning. Life had other plans.
A few weeks earlier, my therapist had looked at me and said, "Georgie, I think you need a month off. You're exhausted."
Honestly, I had dreams of Thailand or Vietnam. But taking a month away didn't feel at all possible, so I was looking for ways to slowly rebuild my energy by eliminating what I could, reducing what was not necessary, increasing what helped and cultivating the restorative practices I know, while still seeing clients.
Then, over the weekend, I began feeling unwell. By Sunday, I was exhausted and had quite a bit of abdominal pain. I carried on working, putting what I was feeling to one side. By the time I got home, though, I knew something wasn't right and decided to see a doctor the next day.
Very early Monday morning, not feeling great, I started cancelling clients. I had a sip of tea and just like that I was doubled over with a sharp pain in my lower right abdomen. I couldn't get up and knew I needed help immediately. Luckily my close friend Ronald lives a street away and was awake and able to drive me to hospital.
It reminded me of labour, except this time I wasn't delivering a baby and had no idea what was happening. It was frightening.
Finding the emergency entrance turned out to be its own adventure. We both agreed it's not well signposted (just in case you ever find yourself in this predicament). We stopped at what we thought was the right entrance and Ronald went off to find me a wheelchair. When he came back, it was with the news that I had to get back into the car. The last place I wanted to be.
Thank goodness for Ronald, who not only allowed me to sit illegally facing the seat as he ferried me to the door, but who also insisted I be triaged. By this point, I was doubled over on the floor of emergency moaning and trying to hum my way through the pain, while stripping off layers of clothing with a raging fever and zero f*cks at fifty!! Despite all this, I hadn't yet been triaged. He made it clear that I needed to be seen urgently. And I was.
What we didn't know then was that my appendix had partially ruptured. Sheesh, I can't imagine a full rupture.
After 48 hours in the hospital, existing in my blue room, the last few hours before returning to life, I spent in the patient discharge lounge receiving my last antibiotics through a drip. Around me were others who had also been cared for, each with their own story.
I kept noticing an older man shivering in his gown, a thin blanket around his shoulders and his legs bare. As I got up to leave, I took my blanket and gently placed it over his legs. Nearby, a woman sitting with her husband whispered, "That was kind."
It felt good to pass a little of the care I'd received on to someone else. It made me think about the BE KIND sign on the lounge wall. Perhaps we need them everywhere, a small reminder to be gentle with ourselves, and with the other humans beside us.
I'm deeply grateful to the hospital staff who cared for me, and for a health system carrying such an enormous load. I spent two days in a room separated by a blue curtain, receiving the care I needed. There is something very humbling about being the person who needs looking after.
A little time away
So, I am taking that month off, although in circumstances I certainly wouldn't have chosen.
I'll be away from treatments for at least a month while I recover. I'll let you know when I have a clearer return date.
It isn't Vietnam or Thailand, but it is beautiful Sydney. For now, rest comes first and I'm looking forward to catching up on my studies.
Do you know a massage therapist who might be a good fit?
I'm also looking for another massage therapist to join The Deep Unwind. Someone who values thoughtful, personalised care and brings skill, warmth and an attentive presence to their work.
If someone comes to mind, please pass on my details or forward this email. I'd love to take the time to find the right person.
A small pricing update
I also wanted to share the pricing update that was included in my original newsletter.
From November, prices for treatments with me will increase by $10, with card processing costs included in the treatment price. This reflects the ongoing costs of providing the care I offer. Kyron's rates will remain unchanged.
For regular clients, prepaid packs for treatments with me will offer savings of $5 per treatment with a 3-pack, or $10 per treatment with a 6-pack. These will be available online and valid for 12 months from purchase. Packs are for individual use; please speak with me first if you would like to share one with a family member.
Thank you for your understanding while I take this time to recover, and for continuing to support The Deep Unwind and your own care.
With warmth,
Georgie