Back pain, eczema and IBS overcome

I had been on a search for a while for a healthier way of living. I had tried intermittent fasting, and various "app" diets, to try to somehow find solutions to a lack of energy, persistent back pain, as well as creeping weight gain which I could not lose. I also started getting flair-ups of IBS, which I had when I was younger, which suddenly resurfaced. To add to this, I also developed some localized eczema which appeared on the skin of my ankles, wrists, and then started creeping up my arms toward my elbows with itchy patches developing on my legs and arms. My dermatologist prescribed steroid creams which had no lasting effect. As I turned 60, I had been diagnosed with a degradation of the facet joints and disc in my spine on L3 and L4. Doctors could offer no treatment besides strong pain medication, and eventually, facet joint surgery involving "nuts and bolts" to be put into the spine. I had also been diagnosed with osteoporosis at the beginning of the year and was concerned about my overall bone health. I had already decided that I would rather see if there was a more holistic or natural way to avoid the surgery, which as I was told even if successful would limit my movement as the spine would inevitably lose its flexibility. I first tried the Spine Clinic, which provided relief with specific machine-based exercises and regular physiotherapy treatments. Inevitably the cost was substantial and quickly depleted my years' savings on my medical aid. This with only minor improvements in pain levels, despite trying this over two years. I then started regular Pilates and Yoga classes. It helped to increase my flexibility and opened my mind to a more holistic approach to life. At this point, I had started to do some research to find a nutritionist to see if I could lose some weight and improve my health generally. That is when I came across the Light2Live program. While initially being a bit nervous and worried that I might not sustain this, I nevertheless thought that there was little to lose! Within 2-3 weeks of the program, I was already feeling so much better! The pain levels in my back started to drop, I started to have much more energy, and I saw a drastic improvement in my gut health. As I persisted with the program, the program's whole body/mind perspective began to resonate with me. I started to apply all the knowledge and principles, much of which was familiar. Still, I had somehow lost along the way with our modern lifestyle of processed foods, instant gratification and lack of planning or thought for what we put into our bodies or the environment. Six weeks later, I have lost 6 kg, easily and magically! However, much more importantly, I have the tools for a healthier lifestyle, better-eating habits, and stress management tools, which have become a way of life in a concise space of time. Even my husband Dave is a total convert while experiencing the changes and the benefit of the tasty meals! Thank you, Ilze and the Light2live program. It has been an amazing life change in so many ways – no more back pain, I am running again, which I had not been able to do for ten years, eczema has disappeared, and I have loads of energy. I have also learned critical life skills to manage and reduce negative thought and developed positive tools that support sustainable healthy eating habits! With much appreciation, Desiree & Dave Madden