When you live every day with chronic pain and fatigue it can sometimes be difficult to remember what it’s like to feel good, to feel ‘normal’. It’s important though to not focus just on your symptoms but to find at least something each and every day to be grateful for. Something that will make you feel as good as you possibly can given everything you’re living with.
I feel best when…
I feel best when I’m making a difference. When I’m able to find a way in which I can contribute something of meaning to the community. I currently do this by sharing my stories here on the blog and through other social media outlets. By sharing I hope to help others to live simple, sustainable and meaningful lives of their own.
I feel best when I’m able to pace myself well. At the moment that means:
- only working 1-2 hours a day, up to 4 days a week
- finding time each day to do some stretches and yoga
- maintaining a step count of around 5,000 steps a day
- ensuring I get adequate rest throughout the day
I feel best when I’m adequately hydrated. Remembering to drink enough water can be difficult when I’m at my most foggy, but I try hard to remember.
I feel best when I eat a balanced diet. Eating enough nutritious fruit, veg, nuts and meat, mainly eating home cooked meals with fresh produce and avoiding alcohol, dairy and gluten all help to keep me healthy.
I feel best when I have a project to work on that I’m passionate about. At the moment, my passion project is to try and build the sense of community on my street. Although I feel connected to my wider community online, I feel like I don’t really know my neighbours that well.
I feel best when I’m part of a connected community that supports one another and works together towards a simple, sustainable and meaningful lifestyle.
I feel best when I’m surrounded by supportive friends and family.