Yesterday my walking stick arrived! The Consultant had been very insistent that I must use one. For me it felt discouraging, a step backward or downward … which of course logically speaking it’s not, it’s sensible! However some days we don’t want to face up to the truth do we!
Today I decided I am going to name this black stick. Maybe making it more personable would entice me to get going!
…….. STYX it is!
Like the river in Greek mythology, it’s something you have to cross, but not forever.
After a few tentative steps with Styx, Hubby & I picked up the pace and headed for our little park. Although a grey day I felt more positive and as we headed on and neared the beach front there was a delightful scent in the air. The light breeze coming off the sea carried with it that fresh seaweedy metallic smell. Suddenly it felt very good to be alive, standing at the edge of the ocean surrounded by the power of the sea. My problems receded, my joy returned and 45mins later we were home in time for Shepherds Pie!
PS Can you spot Styx 😉
Written by
Annieapple
A30min a day
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
yes! But only just! I know the feeling, when I developed vertigo as part of long COVID I was advised to have a stick. Mine was bright pink, I hated and loved it at the same time but it did mean I could go out on my own for a walk. Well done for coming down on the positive side 🥰
Well done for gritting your teeth and getting out there with Styx.. you know it makes sense, because you’ll feel more confident about your balance and be able to do more, and sooner. But, as an amputee who successfully hides that fact most of the time, I very much understand why you might not want to use it, as it feels like a public admission of weakness. I’m even reluctant to use Norwegian walking poles.. (people with them look so serious!🤣) but have you ever tried them? I’ve never actually tried them myself, but I’ve been told many times that I should as they are brilliant for helping not only with balance, but also to distribute the impact of walking, so that you end up with a full body workout and can actually walk much further than you would otherwise.. just a suggestion but feel free to ignore it just as I have done 🤣🤣
🍏🤣 I haven’t even given them a thought until now! 🤔 However once I have my rehab appointments I will speak to the physios. THANKS for the suggestion! My ultimate long term plan is to run again by starting Couch25K from scratch.
You are so right about the “public admission of weakness” ! Pride at its root!! 🙈 Xx
Whisper it.. but I’ve just started Couchto5k again for about the zillionth time.. week 3/1 today but I’m not posting about it.. prosthetic leg is still not to be trusted to stay secure.. my long term aim is to actually run 5k (rather than get to 30 minutes/week 9 as I did in 2020).. I have my doubts whether it’s even possible - but hopefully we can both get there! x
🍏🤗🫶 A brave and wonderful aspiration.. 3:1 means you are into week2. It doesn’t matter how many times we repeat c25k every run we do is a small triumph. I so admire you in this goal of getting to 5K. 🫶💝
(I will need to follow in your footsteps as at present in rehab for damaged nerves after brain surgery but I will no matter how long it takes!! )
The body/brain has amazing ability to regenerate as long as we keep using it, so I’m sure you will get there.
I’m not confident that I will get there before you, as I’m reliant on NHS prosthetics - I feel like I should be grateful they’ve kept me walking since I was 10.. we shall see.
What a joyful and positive post, thank you Annie. Yes, I spotted Styx but only on closer inspection 😂 (rather beautiful railings 😊) Love the photo of the sea looking wild and wonderful. Well done for getting a walk in today 👍😊
incognito Styx! I once wrote a poem about Styx and Stygean shores. Must dig it out.
The idea of learning how to do Nordic Walking really might be an idea to explore with your physio. I loved trying it out and once in a while still grab my poles. Makes me feel sporty. But at times when I needed help with balance (example icy conditions or due to calf strains), I’m fairly happy to grab the poles.
I always desired one of those poles that have an inbuilt seat, for those evening outdoor festivals. But have not yet gotten one.
Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.
Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.
Walking for Health week 6 - Feel free to join 
2 Walks today and 10,700 steps so far ! 😊