Thank you again to Robert (A 30 Minute Life) and Jen (Tripping Through Treacle) for nominating me for this incredibly uplifting and inspiring quote challenge! The written word has the power to uplift and inspire, and can help us to remain resilient during the darkest times. This challenge is a perfect chance to remind me of so many of the beautiful quotes that can help to turn on the light when times are darkest.
The rules of this challenge are as follows:
Thank the person who nominated you
Post a quote for 3 consecutive days (1 quote for each day)
Share why this quote appeals to you
Nominate 3 different bloggers for each day
And the final quote for this challenge is:
[Tweet “Everyday may not be good, but there’s something good in every day”]
The quote again is one of my favourites and one I am continually reminding myself of, on the many rough days that I experience because of chronic illness and chronic pain, the two constant companions in my life. On these dreadful days, days where we are unable to see the light at the end of the tunnel, it is easy to forget the many pleasant things that make up our life away from constant illness and pain.
At the end of these crummy days, it is so easy just to write off this day as terrible but in my experience, our days are never just wholly bad or good. There is always something to be thankful, every day there is something good, as small as it may be, in every single day, no matter how horrendous we may have felt.
That is why the above quote appeals to me and is vital in my everyday life; it makes me appreciate the small, amazing moments in my life amidst even the bad.
Thank you so much again to Robert (A 30 Minute Life) and Jen (Tripping Through Treacle) for both nominating me for this quote challenge! The written word has the power to uplift and inspire, and can help us to remain resilient during the darkest times. This challenge is a perfect chance to remind me of so many of the beautiful quotes that can help to turn on the light when times are darkest.
The rules of this challenge are as follow:
Thank the person who nominated you
Post a quote for 3 consecutive days (1 quote for each day)
Share why this quote appeals to you
Nominate 3 different bloggers for each day
Today’s quote:
[Tweet “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind”]
This quote immediately came to me, especially after sharing an old post that I wrote two years ago. We have all been in the position in which other people have hurt us, either by their actions or by their words. When living with a chronic illness, there are many ways in which I and others who’ve been hurt by the actions or words of other people.
One such example is by being ostracised or excluded from social engagements, and although many of these many instances may not be intentional, it doesn’t nevertheless lessen the hurt. When our conditions are invisible, many people may even doubt your illness, which when you continuously suffer from debilitating symptoms, it can hurt even more than any symptom can. But, just as the quote above states, those who matter are the ones who believe us even when every test fails to provide any answers. The ones who matter are those who are always there for us whenever we need a shoulder to cry on, in need of help around the house or need groceries or other essentials we’re unable to get ourselves.
Those who doubt us exclude us or hurts us don’t matter, and we should only concern ourselves who do.
Anyone who knows me will know that I love quotes and positive affirmations to remind me of the beauty that exists in the world despite the darkness and all of the terrible atrocities that happen all around the world. As someone living with chronic illness and who regularly struggles, bombarded with many different symptoms, quotes are a helpful reminder that there is still good that exists in my life, and the bad days will pass, making room for days full of joy and positivity!
The rules for this challenge are as follow:
Thank the person who nominated you
Post a quote for 3 consecutive days (1 quote for each day)
Share why this quote appeals to you
Nominate 3 different bloggers for each day
[Tweet “For I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning how to sail my ship”]
‘Little Women’ has always been one of my favourite novels, having read since I was a young girl. This beautifully written novel has always spoken to me, being able to relate to the struggles of each of the four siblings at different times of my life.
It has always been one of my favourite quotes from ‘Little Women’ book, serving to remind me that although storms elicit panic and fear, these are the conditions that we often learn the most.
For me, living with a neurological condition, the many challenging flares that I’ve experienced has only sharpened my awareness of the coping strategies that best help manage the symptoms, and in turn, helping when the inevitable next flare strikes, making the storm less severe, and me better at handling the rough waves.
After Mum and I enjoyed a spa break for my 30th birthday, we decided that whenever we had time, we would book a spa day for us both. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, we have been unable to enjoy a spa day together for almost a year. But with my impending birthday, we thought that it was time for some much-needed R and R.
Excitement and anticipation soon start after phoning our local spa, for a day pass. The pass includes one of their luxurious treatments and a heap of other benefits. Benefits which include full use of the spa and leisure facilities, two-course lunch buffet and complimentary towel, robe and slippers.
A spa day is a lovely and relaxing treat for anybody, but especially those with a chronic illness
A relaxing spa day is a sublime treat for both myself and the person with whom I’m going. And provides something to look forward to beyond the daily life of managing unpleasant symptoms like chronic pain.
However, not only is a spa day something lovely to look forward to. But as someone living with chronic illness, I have found that I benefit immensely from it.
And I think a spa day would be beneficial for those living with chronic illness; and here are some of the reasons why:
A SPA DAY ALLOWS YOU TO SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH LOVED ONES
Before my symptoms became disabling, my Mum and I loved nothing better than to travel to Cardiff. To spend the day together for some retail therapy, and perhaps even take the opportunity to eat out.
However, now as my mobility has worsened, my legs so weak that they give way easily and with no warning. These days out together are no longer possible, not only because of the debilitating physical symptoms but also due to energy limitations. I just don’t have the energy to do these type of high-energy activities anymore. Not without paying a hefty price afterwards. Punishments such as a significant increase in the severity of the symptoms I already have to endure.
Like many of us living with chronic illness, it means that I often have to miss out on social gatherings. Something that is one of the most upsetting and frustrating things about living with a long-term health condition. However, a spa day allows you to spend quality time with a friend or loved one. One that is thoroughly relaxing and low-energy, perfect for those of us with chronic illness
SPA DAY: BEING ABLE TO UNWIND, DESTRESS AND INDULGE IN SELF-CARE
Like many others living with chronic illness, the condition and its constant and unrelenting symptoms cause me stress. And never more so when I am experiencing a severe flare, much as I have done recently. By going on a spa day, however, gave me the opportunity to escape the day-to-day stresses of living with chronic illness. Providing an opportunity to unwind and relax. As all of us are aware, stress can often exacerbate our symptoms; by going on a spa day, it allows you the opportunity to focus on you and your needs.
Like osmosis, the calm and relaxing atmosphere of the spa itself seeps into my body making me calm and relaxed despite any pain or discomfort I’m experiencing. Hell, I become so relaxed that I end up catching on any missed sleep in one of the Relaxation Zones. Bliss!
THE TREATMENTS ON OFFER ON A SPA DAY CAN HELP REDUCE CHRONIC PAIN
There are a variety of treatments and massages on offer in spas like the one I frequent. For those who can tolerate touch, as some suffering from allodynia would not benefit from such treatments. One of my favourite treatments is the aromatherapy massage. But a hot stone massage may also be beneficial for those suffering from chronic pain. Research has found that the therapy eases muscle stiffness, increases circulation and metabolism. It also increases blood flow throughout the body as the hot stones help to expand blood vessels.
Furthermore, massages have also been found to release the same ‘feel-good’ endorphins that you get from working out. The release of endorphins acts as a natural pain reliever. The more your body produces these endorphins, the quicker it learns how to release them. Therefore, regular massage therapy helps to stop the buildup of toxic blockages that hinder the flow of oxygen around the body causing pain and inflammation and to also help the body’s response to it.
An aromatherapy massage as well as having the same benefits as listed above is also said to ease headaches, improve sleeping problems, lowers feeling of anxiety and improves mood. The practitioner can tailor the aromatherapy oils depending on you and your symptoms. During a previous massage, peppermint oil was used on my body, including my stomach. I found that this really helped ease nausea I experience as a side effect of the medications that I take.
I also love having a facial, which is just as relaxing as any of the other treatments already mentioned. Afterwards, my skin is glowing making me look healthy and radiant. A natural healthy glow instead of the pale and unhealthy complexion which has become my norm. And when I look good, I also feel good.
THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF THE OTHER FACILITIES ON OFFER
As well as delivering ultimate pampering treatments, most spas also have jacuzzis, saunas, and steam rooms to use during your stay. Jacuzzi’s are excellent for those like myself who suffer from neurological conditions. The warm water decreases joint stiffness, normalises muscle tone, as well as promoting muscle relaxation all helping to relieve pain. I love spending time in the spa’s jacuzzi, and feel relaxed and rejuvenated doing so. And experiencing a reduction in the amount of pain I am experiencing. I find it so beneficial that it’s difficult getting me out of there!
There are plenty of benefits for using jacuzzi’s and steam room, both popular in spa resorts
There are also many benefits of using saunas and steam rooms. Saunas, for example, are great for detox, as sweating is one of the best ways to remove toxins from the body.
Saunas and steam rooms are although not suitable if suffering from heat intolerance which many suffering from neurological conditions do. However, even a few minutes in the steam room or sauna can be beneficial. In addition to detoxing, they may also help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Furthermore, it’s important to reiterate that spending time in hot water and facilities such and saunas and steam rooms can be as good as exercise. Great news for those who find exercise difficult because of their condition. But it is still important to pace yourself especially for those who struggle with fatigue. Also, if you have a high blood pressure than you need to consult a medical professional as it may be unsuitable.
A SPA DAY: NO PRESSURES AND A DAY OF NORMALITY
We all have pressures in our lives whether it comes from work, family, or friends. When living with chronic illness, we may often feel pressure to do things that we might not feel physically able to do, others not understanding why we can’t because we look healthy on the outside. Them not understanding how we can still be in pain, or feel so fatigued.
A significant advantage of a spa day is that there are no pressures from others or any need to places any burden on ourselves to do this or that because we feel we should be doing something than resting and looking ourselves. On these days, there is nothing to do but care for ourselves, listen to our bodies and instead do what we need to for us. A day not continually checking social media, and worrying about what is going on around us. A day just for us.
A DAY IN WHICH THE LIMITATIONS OF CHRONIC ILLNESS DO NOT DEFINE ME
At the spa, I feel completely safe and at ease in the environment, which is not always the case because of my neurological condition. But there, I can take everything at my own pace, even being left alone in one of the relaxation areas while my companion goes to another part to do what they want. It’s, in fact, a spa day is one in which I almost feel ‘normal,’ a day which I am not defined by the limitations of my condition. A day with no ‘I can’t’ and being stopped by the symptoms that I endure because of said condition. All there is to do is lie back, relax and enjoy!
There are just a few of the many reasons why a spa day can benefit for those living with chronic illness. I always come away feeling tired, but still incredibly relaxed, happy and even in less pain.
My local spa has become a ‘happy place’ to me
I definitely feel and enjoy the benefits of a spa day and would recommend it to anyone. Plus, it provides a fun and relaxed day out. One that I can actually enjoy and feel comfortable in my surroundings, and allows me time to spend with Mum away from home. I cannot wait until our next day whenever that will be!
Have you tried a spa day? What did you think?
Let me know in the comment box below or let me know via social media!
After a long hiatus from blogging, I am starting to feel normal again, or as normal as I can possibly feel and to help acclimatise myself with blogging again, I once more am taking part in the February Linkup Party with Sheryl from ‘A Chronic Voice.’
The prompts for this month are:
Adapting
Practicing
Realising
Celebrating
Inviting
Here we go…
After years of living with a neurological condition and its constant fluctuations, you would think I would be used to it and had fully adapted to a new reality of living with debilitating symptoms. But, even after many setbacks, or ‘flares’ as we in the chronic illness community like to call them, our new reality of like with illness is one we never fully adapt to or accept.
I thought I had accepted and adapted to a new reality of a life of symptoms including dizziness, vertigo as well as managing to continually walk on trembling legs which you can never trust not to collapse from under you. But after spending many miserable weeks, with these permanent and unrelenting symptoms at its worst, I again came to the realisation that acceptance is not the end of the journey of coming to terms with a diagnosis of a long-term health condition. Instead, it is a destination that we have to revisit again and again, especially when dealing with dealing with our personal storms.
Acceptance is a journey and not the destination.
In the meantime, I am exploring my toolbox of coping strategies that I’ve acquired over the years. Insights and advice gained from mental health professionals, friends and fellow ‘spoonie’ warriors, books and television programmes, all of which has helped me a great deal and helps to shelter me from the worst of the storms. I don’t know when the worst of these symptoms will pass, but until then I will do my best to find shelter until this particular storm dissipates.
In a weird twist of fate, just when I am experiencing a severe storm in regards to my health, I am enrolled in a course about Acceptance-Commitment Therapy. The aim of Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT) is to help people accept what is out of their personal control and to commit to actions that improve and enriches their lives. Most of the course has been very much based on its theory, which has been very interesting but some of the course has been teaching us psychological skills to better deal with painful thoughts and feelings.
Through this, I have been practising meditation and mindfulness techniques to lessen the effects that pain and the negative thoughts have on my everyday life. It is not easy and requires much practice but I can start to see the benefits, and it had helped when the pain has been at it’s worst as well as keeping me calm when feeling stressed and overwhelmed.
The ACT course and mindfulness has helped in allowing me to let go of the things that I cannot control and instead focus on what I am able to control
Since starting the course, and seeing the benefits that the course has had on my well-being, I began realising that I can still have fun, have enjoyment and contentment while in pain. Recently, Mum and I went to the theatre to watch Flashdance (an unexpected Christmas present!), but while there I was experiencing significant pain in my legs as well as a myriad of other symptoms including vertigo and visual disturbances. When they suddenly came on, I felt a wave of great disappointment that my rare night out was spoilt because of my neurological condition. But, after practising some of the techniques we have been learning during the course in ACT, I managed to divert my attention away from the nuisance symptoms and to what was going in front of me and the fantastic music and dancing.
And it worked! Because of the severity of the symptoms that seemingly appeared from nowhere, I felt that I wanted to leave and go home to the safety and security of more familiar surroundings. But, I didn’t and made it through the entire show and had a great time (despite the incident when my legs gave way when we were leaving!). It was then that I realised that chronic pain and fun doesn’t have to be irreconcilable.
It is little victories like the theatre trip which I am celebrating this month. It may seem small and trivial, but they are monumental considering the effect that symptoms of chronic illness have on our lives. Not cancelling on invitations, pushing through symptoms to get our normal chores done or just doing something we thought we never thought we could do are all worthy of celebration. I know just how difficult living this chronic life can be and how it affects your entire life and what you are and aren’t able to do, so celebrate your victories as I know how hard you’ve worked to achieve them.
Let’s celebrate everything that we achieve especially as chronic illness gives us many obstacles stopping us from doing so…
To end, I think I would like to invite more opportunity into my life. Perhaps, by expanding my writing beyond the blog. Writing is something that I enjoy immensely and something that I am passionate about so I would love to be able to do more of, so if anyone has any suggestions or offers, please let me know! Loneliness and isolation is again something that I have been struggling so am inviting more opportunities to meet new people, and expanding my social circle. Of course, it is difficult when considering that I am unable to get out of the house on my own or even that I am not invited to attend social occasions by those that I do know. But hopefully, by participating in more courses like the ACT course, I am able to meet new people and widen my social circle and find my own tribe.
