Lipedema and self care

When you first learn of your lipedema, regardless of its stage and your age, acceptance is . . . a process. And a powerful act of self care.

Those with lipedema encounter societal body biases that layer emotional health challenges amongst physical ones. This makes having self care practices even more relevant. Our clients enthusiastically share their ideas and solutions, and we’ve distilled their wisdom:

• Find your people – Gather strength where it's best found. Can be friends, family and fellow ‘lippies’' from online and in-person support groups.
• Do things you love –  Find creative and active outlets which resonate. They get you outside of your head. 
• Advocate and educate – As you're comfortable, share your point of view and tell your story. It creates understanding.
• Consider counselling – It is a space for processing emotions and drawing motivation and perspective.
• Be active – Set your own pace and pick something you really enjoy so you’ll stick with it.
• Befriend wearing compression – Properly-fitted compression is comforting. Explore styles and colours.
• Stay curious – Insights and clinical knowledge on lipedema is evolving quickly.
• Lower inflammation – Include low carb (Keto, Mediterranean diet) and anti-inflammatory foods on your plate.
• Manage pain – Learn what works for you. On any given day it could be gentle movement like swimming and walking, lymphatic massage, NSAIDs, or meditation.