When I shared the story of my climbing accident in the Swiss Alps, I hoped it would illustrate just how powerful mindfulness can be, especially in unexpected or traumatic situations.
Since the accident, so much has happened, and I wanted to provide an update on my recovery journey and the ongoing impact of mindfulness in recovery for trauma.
Healing and New Developments
Since the accident, my recovery journey has been filled with small but powerful steps forward. Recently, I’ve had a positive update: after an eye test at Gareth Roberts Opticians, I learned that my vision has improved! My injured eye now has 6/6 vision, and my “good” eye is better than 20/20, so together, they balance to 20/20 overall. It’s a massive boost knowing things are progressing in the right direction.
Though I’m still waiting for a hospital appointment to fit a corrective contact lens, which will help manage the light sensitivity, I’m enjoying a stylish substitute in the meantime — new sunglasses! I’m even wearing them as I write this blog post!
And while my leopard-print eye patch was quite a fashion statement, I’ve happily retired it, as I no longer need it to shield my eye. For those who know me, don’t worry — leopard print isn’t going anywhere in my life, just not on my face!
Sharing My Story and Spreading Mindfulness
One of the most meaningful parts of my recovery journey has been the opportunity to share my story. I’ve spoken about the accident and the role of mindfulness in recovery for trauma with students, corporate clients, and retreat participants.
Many people have shared how my story inspired them to explore mindfulness, with some even reducing anxiety medication under their GP’s guidance. Others have reported feeling calmer and more focused, experiencing noticeable benefits in just a few short weeks.
Mindfulness is not about escaping from pain or pretending everything is fine. Instead, it’s about staying present with what’s happening in the moment, acknowledging emotions, and using tools like breathwork to manage them.
In the moments after the accident, and in the days and weeks that followed, mindfulness provided a sense of calm and clarity.
For anyone dealing with difficult emotions or trauma, this practice is invaluable. There’s even evidence supporting its effectiveness, as research highlights the significant role of mindfulness in recovery for trauma, including in people dealing with PTSD.
Do I Still Go Climbing?
People often ask if I still climb after the accident. The answer is yes! Mindfulness helps me stay present and calm, making each climb a positive experience. And, I’m grateful to say, I haven’t experienced any lingering PTSD from the accident. Instead, I’ve come away with a greater appreciation for the benefits of mindfulness in recovery for trauma and in everyday resilience.
If you’re interested in exploring how mindfulness can help with your challenges — whether big or small — please reach out. It’s a practice that has supported me through life’s uncertainties, and I’m passionate about sharing it.
Until next time, wishing you Less Stress & More Yoga ✨
Paula 😃🙏
Practice mindfulness with me! 😃
Before you go, I’d love to invite you to join my online yoga & mindfulness classes!
Sunrise Stretch classes are donation-based live yoga classes with 20 minutes of movement followed by 10 minutes of mindfulness or other amazing well-being practices like Laughter or Face Yoga. You can also join me on replay by subscribing to the online Video Library for just £10 per month!
Whether you’re 8, 80, or anywhere in between, there is something for you at Happy Yoga Wales!
As well as diving into my guided practices on YouTube, you can join us live at classes and courses in North Wales and upcoming events throughout the UK!
And if you’re interested in bringing the benefits of yoga, laughter, face yoga and mindfulness to your community or workplace, get in touch for a private session tailored to your needs.
