By Caroline “Noni” Craven, Adventure Traveler and Photographer
Adventure is my game. I’m not an extremist, but have been known to play: white water kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, anything and everything in the snow. Name it, I tried it. A previous life was filled with river guiding and horse training. Play hard, work hard. Until it caught up with me.
Seven years ago I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), an oft-debilitating disease that encroaches on the nervous system. MS affects the same part of your brain as alcohol, creating difficulties with such simple and necessary motor functions as walking. Symptoms for MS are similar in some people and different in others. Among the many annoyances in my battle with MS, I became very heat sensitive — a broken radiator. Hot weather activities ended. Simply put, I would melt. Lay me down in a cold body of water.
Then I was invited on a cruise through the Galagagos Islands with National Geographic. A dream come true to a once-aspiring naturalist. And, a week in Ecuador if I wanted – scope it out, see the country. But doubt bore deep, driven by anxiety as I realized what a poor excuse of a travel mate I turned into on my last big adventure (visualize a screaming 2-year old tantrum in the middle of safari). OK, I had to make some changes. Serious changes. I had a lot to learn. But I could do it.
Nutrition became catamount to improving my health, encouraging my studies and certification as a nutrition educator. The best move I made was walking into a yoga studio and holistic center. Two weeks of de-toxing, time on the mat, and some much needed massage work oozed my body into a fresh direction. Right on. Combining my nutrition education and the advice of my Chinese doctors, I moved forward with a road map to better health.
Fast forward six months and I was heading to the Galapagos. Ninety degree heat and intense humidity was the basic weather prediction. But I could do this. My health was rockin’. I was facing the numerous dust bunnies accumulating and coagulating in my veins. I would train, work hard and boldly go forth.
And boldly forth I went, photographer’s eye on high alert, the MS in remission.
We all need to find what works for us. For me at this time, it’s a routine of yoga, walking, biking, photography and learning how to chill (with the help of my cooling vest from Arctic Heat and UV Beach Breeze from Athleta). It’s different for all of us. The challenge is to find the balance that optimizes your potential.
CAROLINE’S GALAPAGOS PICKS
What an amazing and inspiring piece. As a yoga teacher, I of course love to hear about how yoga makes big positive changes in someone’s health, but I think the real gem here is Caroline’s determination and drive to be healthy despite the challenge posed by her MS diagnosis. Her health isn’t the only thing rockin’ – so is her attitude, and her pictures!
Like:
0
You can sit on the couch and watch life go by, or you can get up and live it! Caroline’s living her potential and each new adventure that she embraces alters and enhances her life experience! Keep on truckin’ Caroline!
Like:
0
Nothing stops this woman and we are proud to be her friend! Lee and Merv Johnson
Like:
0
Caroline – Having seen you in low times and high times:), I can definately say that what you are doing for your health is an inspiration for all. You have found what works for your body to continue to enjoy the activities that drive your amazing spirit! Your photography is unbelievable, your joy is infectious, and your heart is pure solid gold:) You live life to its fullest and never back down from a challenge—Rock on Farmgirl:) WAHOOOOOOOOOOO:)
Like:
0
When I saw Caroline walk into the WholistiCenter of Montrose, I had no idea of who she was, but she had “the look.” As a holistic educator and wellness practitioner, I love to see the look in people’s eyes – it says “I want to be well…I’m ready to do whatever it takes, just tell me what to do.” The results are clear. She followed directions, took all of the herbal products we gave her (ShenTrtion, Shen Tonic and and Shen Cleanse), learned how to move in her body again through classes and bodywork sessions and continues to improve. Rock on C! The staff at the WholistiCenter of Montrose thanks you for inspiring them to continue sharing the lifestyle :)
BTW: I suggest reading more info about the adaptogenic products Caroline swears by at http://www.shentrition.com
Like:
0
It has been so exciting to watch Caroline’s determination to tackle the effects of MS and not let it control her future. Your photography is spectalular! Good luck in your new adventure.
Like:
0
I can not think of ever being blessed with a friendship with someone as inspirational. Thank You : )
Like:
0