Today's art link is about crosses. A simple linear image used in every culture around the world. It is an archetype within culture, representing Christianity in one form, but a general positive energy in other religions. I like this page for a short examination of what crosses can mean. I find they show up in my art all the time and I am not a religious person, per se. Hmmm. I think crosses symbolize healing to me, and hope.
Very interesting article posted to a Facebook Arthritis group yesterday summarizing data from a recent study on the link between PTSD and Rheumatoid Arthritis. One study came out last year, but more analysis and studies have followed to show a relationship between trauma/stress and malfunctioning of the immune system. It seems that the chronic stress response that is part of PTSD can make developing RA more likely if other conditions are right. The increased stress hormones (the natural stress reaction) makes it more likely for the immune system to move to an "out of control" state. Even when the source of stress is resolved. Like flicking a switch. I find this really interesting, as when I was growing up I was exposed to a boatload of stress (long ugly tale not to be told here.) I spent years living in a state of not knowing what to expect at home, living with, and reacting to, loud, angry outbursts and crazinesss, and feeling pretty confused about it all. Yup, that was stressful. I remember thinking "Feeling like this isn't good for my brain," even back then. I wish I knew then how it would hurt my body, too. Not that there was anything I could have really done about it, however, so maybe it was best not to know. Knowing there is a causal relationship now is interesting and somewhat validating in providing a piece of the puzzle of why I have this freaking miserable disease.
So, onward to make more cross-marks and find good vibes to make the RA crawl back in it's ugly hole and stay there. If only! Cheers.