Healing Autoimmunity: Letting Go of Shame and Blame
Before we dive into the specifics of how to reduce autoimmunity (and trust me, I have a lot to say about that), I want to talk about one of the biggest roadblocks many of us face.
There’s a toxic undercurrent in the natural health world—sometimes subtle, sometimes loud—that suggests you’re somehow to blame for your illness. If only you had eaten less gluten, exercised more, meditated daily… then maybe you wouldn’t be sick. The message is: It’s all your fault.
But here’s the truth: This kind of thinking is just another form of autoimmunity—turning against yourself. And that’s not the path to healing.
Yes, you can take charge of your health. Yes, there are powerful ways to bring your body back into balance. But it all has to happen within a container of compassion. Without it, even the “healthiest” changes can become another form of self-punishment.
Breaking Free from Toxic Shame
Shame keeps us small. When we feel ashamed of our bodies, we hold back. We hesitate to take risks. And honestly? We don’t really heal. The pressure to “do everything right” when it comes to health is everywhere—from the internet, from well-meaning (if annoying) friends, from doctors, from alternative practitioners. It’s overwhelming.
So here’s my advice: Give yourself permission to do less. Maybe even nothing sometimes.
A Radical Act of Self-Care
This week, I want you to carve out at least an hour (more if you can) where you don’t have to do anything. No errands, no meal prepping—just time for yourself. Put it on your calendar. Treat yourself like a beloved child.
- Eat nourishing foods that you enjoy. (Yes, I’ll talk about the ideal autoimmune diet later, but for now, focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods that make you feel good.)
- Move your body in ways that bring you joy—no guilt, no pressure.
- Make space for simple pleasures: reading a book, sitting outside with tea, playing with your dog. Something just for you, with no expectation of being “productive” or “perfect.”
Because healing isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you treat yourself. And your body needs to know: She is loved.
