Share Your Daily Self Care Goals
I am now 56 years old. I realize I lived with chronic pain and fatigue for over 15 years. In 2008 I finally found a new physician that worked with me to get a diagnosis and treatment. I was living with such pain and fatigue I could barely manage to get out of bed. I had two teenagers and was watching them through my bedroom...
View MoreSelf-care goal 1
When I wake up each day and walk stiffly to the bathroom I see on my wall,"Today is a good day." I use that quote to motivate positive thoughts immediately. It helps to place me in the possibilities of the day. I want to feel like I can tackle whatever comes my way. With the uncertainty of pain levels, I aim to place myself in warrior mode.
Self-care goal 2
After my breakfast and my one cup of iced coffee, I then take about 10 to 20 minutes to sit. As I sit, I stretch my neck and shoulders repeatedly, breathing in and breathing out slowly. Every day I sit cross-legged on the floor as I do this. It is not an easy task to get down and place. However, it's worth it! My mantra is...I am happy, I am whole, I am loved. I continue to stretch out my legs, arms and back. It took me quite awhile to determine my mantra. It had to be what I truly believed. It helps me to feel stronger despite my pain or fatigue level.
Self-care goal 3
If I feel I need to do more stretching, I continue. If I have time and feel the need, I will meditate. My goal is to then, keep moving slowly throughout the day. A batch of laundry here and cleaning there. I have learned to pace myself work 30 mins and then sit and relax. I have also learned I very well may not accomplish what I had hoped or intended but I have to be fine with what I did get done. It is the warrior mentality that allows me to conquer that Fibro Beast at times.
Self-care goal 4
There are often errands that need tending and I have the attitude of, if I am out I want to get them completed. I have had a hard time learning that pacing myself does not stop outside the house. My lists are shorter and if I have to stop and sit in the shopping progress, I just do it. I know I will stand and walk straighter and stronger after a little time out. The fibrofog may even lift and I will accomplish things faster and get home more quickly.
Self-care goal 5
In my world, a Good Day includes an afternoon rest. By 3:00 pm my fatigue level has me functioning in slow motion. I am fortunate to be retired now, and I can lay down on my comfy couch for 5 days a week to take a short nap. The active Epstein barr virus has me battling chronic fatigue as well. This time allows my energy to refresh. Especially if it's the holidays or we are travelling. It is a must to help keep me happy and whole!
