I have been sick lately but I’ve just arrived in Spain, following an unforgettable journey through Amsterdam, Brussels, and France.
My AirBnb here is nothing short of enchanting. Take a look at that wall and chic decor. I have been attracted to the soft, muted green — a color I’ve been a sucker for lately.
However, the overly intense scent they’ve infused into the space has become overwhelming.
It’s triggered colds, a runny nose, a clogged throat, and now a fever.
This all came right after an intense bout of body pain from snowboarding in the French Alps. I guess the mix of physical strain and sensitivity to the environment pushed me into this state. Yet, I have no regrets.
Snowboarding in the French & Swiss Alps was one of the best experiences I’ve had to close out 2024 and welcome 2025. 🏂 Spending a week learning an extreme sport I never thought I’d attempt felt freeing. It’s sparked a desire to get better at it.
Back to the Present 🏖️
Today, despite feeling unwell, I made it to the beach. I strolled along the sand, weak and sluggish but determined, letting Valencia’s beautiful 75°F weather wrap me in its warmth.
There’s something incredibly calming about the cool touch of sand beneath your feet, feels like nature’s own therapy.
Spain says: Winter who?? Adios Michelin-sized jackets. This area reminds me of San Diego.
It must have been my mom who instilled in me the idea that when you’re sick, staying in bed doesn’t help. Instead, go out. Trick your mind into believing you’re not sick. Convince your brain of what you want to feel.
By going out, you create a self-fulfilling prophecy: if you act well, you start to feel well.
The Power of Belief
This isn’t a new concept. Studies and anecdotal evidence show how environment and mindset can shape outcomes.
For example:
- 👩🦽 Children with disabilities placed in environments where they are treated as “normal” often experience remarkable improvements—sometimes even overcoming their disabilities altogether.
- 🥶 A man accustomed to years of cold was promised a warm jacket. Suddenly, his brain couldn’t endure the cold anymore, and he succumbed. The hope of warmth changed his perception, and his body followed.
Mindset is Everything 🧠
How can you trick your brain into achieving what you want? It starts with owning and controlling your thoughts. Your brain is powerful, and your belief systems are key to unlocking that power.
Here’s what worked for me:
- When the pandemic hit, I told myself my asthma was gone after having COVID. I refused to let it dictate my life anymore. And guess what? I haven’t had an asthma attack since.
- I believed I could travel the world, no matter my passport or resources. Today, I’m living that belief, having explored the globe for over a year.
You never know how powerful you are until you choose to embrace it. Your mind can heal you, propel you forward, and open doors you never thought possible. 🚪
Use It Well
As I recover from this current bout of illness, I’m reminded of how faith and mindset shape my journey. Whether it’s convincing my body to heal, learning a new sport, or traveling with freedom, it’s all rooted in belief. Duh.
Own your mind. Harness its power. The results may surprise you.🙈✨
