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The first feeling I had as I stared at the confirmation email that landed in my inbox was excitement. I felt exhilarated at the prospect of escaping the gilded cage that illness had created for me. I was excited by the promise of a change of scenery from this gilded cage my home has become. But it also came with trepidation. Why? Because, unfortunately, I’m unable to escape my disabled body. I can’t take a holiday from this illness that controls much of my life. Instead, I have to make room and take them with me. Because wherever I am, the symptoms will be, too. Where I am is irrelevant; pain and all the other symptoms will exist no matter where I am. So how can I feel joy about travelling while I’m drowning in a torrent of pain and besieged by a myriad of other horrible symptoms?

"'I'm unable to escape my disabled body. I can't take a holiday from this illness that controls much of my life. Instead, I have to make room and take them with me." Share on X
Wherever I am the symptoms will be too

None of my days are symptom-free. Every day, I experience crushing waves of pain, weakness, fatigue or dizziness, waves that drag me deep into the abyss. Some days, I experience two or three severe symptoms; on the worst days, I come up against all of them. So, much of every day, I make decisions explicitly designed to avoid physical pain. I spend every day doing everything in my power to prevent triggering any of the symptoms that make my life increasingly oppressive.

"Much of every day, I make decisions explicitly designed to avoid physical pain. I spend every day doing everything in my power to prevent triggering any of the symptoms that make my life increasingly oppressive." Share on X

Glimmers that once sparked joy are now pushed into the shade.

So, I decline social invitations, cancel long-awaited plans and wave goodbye to passions and ambitions that once nourished my soul. But by doing so, I’ve paid a hefty toll. As the symptoms play a more prominent role in my life, my world becomes smaller and more isolated. The only company I seem to keep are the symptoms that forever haunt me. I often stare outside, wishing to be part of the world beyond my window. The glimmers that once sparked joy suddenly pushed into the shade, shrouded in darkness that light cannot reach. Because of this, I, like so many others living with a chronic illness, often experience depression, a byproduct of the happy, joyous moments that sickness has stolen from me.

"I often stare outside, wishing to be part of the world beyond my window. The glimmers that once sparked joy suddenly pushed into the shade, shrouded in darkness that light cannot reach." Share on X

So, saying yes to a marathon visit to bookstores, a trip to my favourite shopping haunt, a night out at the theatre, or a voyage on a cruise ship is a way of reclaiming some of the stolen joy illness snatches away. I do so despite knowing the heavy price to pay for these small snippets of normality: the rigidity and incandescent pain that rages through my legs, the all-consuming fatigue that overwhelms my entire body, and the dizziness and vertigo that refuses to relent, forcing me to lie down gripping at sheets as everything around me spins. I want good days and to feel alive rather than just surviving. So, I would opt to be in pain and feel the full force of my symptoms rather than be depressed.

"I want good days and to feel alive rather than just surviving. So, I would opt to feel pain and feel the full force of my symptoms rather than be depressed." Share on X

What ifs: to go or not to go?

But as the symptoms became more intense and severe, the anxiety about going at all increased. I didn’t want to go, only to have the cruise ruined by my erratic and unpredictable body. Was it even possible to postpone until I felt stronger and better prepared? Or at least until the symptoms were not so out of control and were no longer making my life a living nightmare.

I want good days and to feel alive rather tahn just surviving. I would rather opt to feel pain and the full force of my symptoms than be depressed

For me, a cure or getting better is a wish only a Fairy Godmother could grant. But my life is no fairytale. It might not even be a flare, but the start of my symptoms worsening again. Right now, it might be the best it gets. Whatever the case, I cannot put my life or plans on hold, however much I would like to.

My mind constantly raced with thoughts of what if—catastrophic thoughts of what would happen if I did go and thoughts of what if I didn’t. But ‘what’ and ‘if’ are as nonthreatening and insipid as two words can be. But together, side-by-side, they have the power to haunt you with anxiety or regrets. As much as I feared going, I also feared that I would always regret it if I didn’t go. As unwell and anxious as I felt, what if I had gone would forever haunt me.

My most treasured memories were not pain or symptom-free

But I did it. After a whole lot of tears, anxiety attacks, as well as pep talks and words of encouragement, I did it. Despite feeling weak, defeated and broken by both my physical symptoms and mental health, I amazed myself by achieving what I thought was unthinkable – stepping on board, passport in hand, ready to cruise.

Reflecting on this cruise and those preceding it made me realise something. Some of the best experiences and my happiest memories were not pain— or symptom-free.

".Some of the best experiences and my happiest memories were not pain— or symptom-free." Share on X

The pain and other symptoms, as severe as they were, are not what I remember most from the trips I’ve loved while cruising. What I remember most is being in awe of the majestic scenery as I stood in the fjords of Norway. I look back now on not the amount of pain I was in but standing on a ferry, witnessing the beauty and quaintness of Portofino as it came into view. Only the joy and excitement of seeing a pod of dolphins as they jumped alongside the ship remain, not the days spent feeling sick in the cabin. What I remember is not the crushing fatigue but walking the pretty streets of Sorrento. I dwell on not the nights spent in the cabin in pain but the lovely, joyful memories of nights eating fantastic food and sipping delicious cocktails.

Symptoms lingered, but joy lingered, too.

I look at pictures of myself while travelling, and I’m glowing—beaming in a way I haven’t seen myself in a long time. For the first time in a long time, it felt like I was living and not just existing. Illness and its vast array of symptoms have long ago created a gilded cage, and for me, books were its key. Reading allows me to escape the cage and experience worlds and places, both real and imagined. But as I stood on the balcony, watching the glistening blue waves of the ocean, my world no longer felt small and secular. My world suddenly expanded, and I was a part of it, experiencing it for myself instead of observing it from a tower, like Rapunzel or reading about it from a book.

"'But as I stood on the balcony, watching the glistening blue waves of the ocean, my world no longer felt small and secular. My world suddenly expanded, and I was a part of it, experiencing it for myself." Share on X "I swallowed the maximum dose of painkillers while crossing my fingers that it would delay the inevitable assault of pain." Share on X

But all good things must come to an end. But, for each excursion and every accomplishment came a physical cost. I swallowed the maximum dose of painkillers while crossing my fingers that it would delay the inevitable assault of pain. I diligently took the correct dose of my other pills and hoped they would ease the nausea and dizziness advancing toward me. But, living with a chronic illness, I often have to prepare to worsen my symptoms for a slice of normality. I must pay the price to take part in everyday things everybody else takes for granted. But even sometime later, symptoms lingered, pushing my body into a debilitating flare. But joy and exhilaration lingered, too – almost making the pain worth it.

"But even sometime later, symptoms lingered, pushing my body into a debilitating flare. But joy and exhilaration lingered, too." Share on X

WHAT IS SELF-CARE?

Self-care refers to the actions and attitudes which contribute to the maintenance of well-being and health of the individual.

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When living with a chronic illness, this includes taking prescribed medications, regularly exercising, eating healthily and attending appointments with your doctor.

As equally important is to maintain positive emotional health and well-being.  For me, what has helped cultivate a positive attitude is the development of a positivity board.

This positivity board consists of positive and inspiring quotes and favourite photographs.  And anything else which helps me remain positive and content despite the effects that living with a neurological disorder has on my life.  I have also made myself a comfort box.  A box containing items that bring me comfort and support when symptoms are remarkably severe.  By keeping this box next to my bed provides me the opportunity to self-care when I am unable to get out of bed.

How to Self-Care When Travelling With a Chronic Illness

However, how can we still participate in self-care when stuck on a deserted island.  I don’t mean a literal deserted island, but rather how can we take care of ourselves when away from our daily routines and everything else that provides comfort and safety while living with a chronic illness.

One such example is travelling.

Travelling when living with a chronic illness presents its own set of challenges regarding self-care. Being away from our usual routine and everyday life is difficult.

It’s this change and not knowing what to expect that can make it difficult when travelling with a chronic illness. It’s this change and not knowing what to expect which makes it’s difficult to anticipate, plan and manage our symptoms.  In my experience after four cruises, self-care can often be more difficult when on this type of holiday as when we begin to feel unwell we cannot just pop to the nearest store for the items which can help ease whichever symptoms decide to grace us with their presence. Which means, careful and considered packing before we leave on our adventures.

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Go On An Adventure

So, how can we practice self-care while we are away?  How can we ensure that we enjoy our relaxing time away and not let our symptoms get in the way of having a good time?

BEFORE LEAVING

The first piece I would give to anyone wanting to travel while living with a chronic illness is to accept yourself for who you are today.  Recognise and accept the limitations that now exist, and assess your particular needs. Once you know them, then you can start planning around your new roadblocks to find a location and type of holiday that is best suited to your particular needs. For example, if you are planning a city break and you have difficulties with mobility then perhaps find a hotel located near the sights that you want to visit during your stay.

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I recently read an excellent article about travelling with a chronic illness. It recommended that before starting to pack is to keep a log of your daily activities to better prepare for your needs while away.  Note things like medications, equipment, and anything else that you might need to help look after yourself while away and especially if and when a flare in your symptoms occurs.  It might also be an idea to start packing a few weeks before your departure; this year, I admit I left some things until the last minute, and the packing left me feeling weak and fatigued.

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And find the space to pack your essential self-care items such as books and magazines, a favourite pillow or cushion that you find comfortable if pain is an issue for example.  When I am in a lot of pain, I often find distraction the best way to cope, taking my mind away from the source of my discomfort with something such as a funny and heart-warming film.  As such, I always ensure that I pack my iPad loaded with my current favourite films and TV shows (with headphones as not to disturb my travel companions; useful when pain wakes you up in the middle of the night).  It can also be helpful on days confined to bed because of a sudden flare in the severity of the symptoms to entertain one’s self when everyone else is out enjoying their time in a new country.

smartphone entertainment and travelling

Hydration is also essential, even those not living with a chronic illness. Make sure to carry a water bottle and snacks in your carry-on luggage in case of delays in the airport.  Dehydration and exposure to the sun both can exacerbate fatigue. To avoid this, drink plenty and limit your time in the sun.

Meditation is also very useful in helping ease the burden of symptoms when they are a nuisance.  There are plenty of apps available for smartphones or tablets that focus on meditation and mindfulness.  The exercises can be done anywhere – even busy airports and they are excellent at settling the mind and reduce stress.  If you find travel difficult and stressful, then perhaps investing in an app like this might be beneficial.

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DURING THE HOLIDAY

When sampling a new country, we want to do and see everything it has to offer.  We want to push through symptoms like pain, so we don’t miss out on anything.  But by doing so may not be the smartest move as it may exacerbate then even more.  So take a break.  Perhaps limit your activity to only doing one fun thing a day, giving you the opportunity to rest for the remainder of the day.

[Tweet “Pushing through symptoms so we don’t miss out is not smart and may exacerbate them further.”]

If planning energy-consuming activities alternate your days.  For example, have an active day followed by a day of rest.  Doing this will allow your body time to recover and eliminate the stress and disappointment of potentially missing activities.

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Travel is good for the soul

And this doesn’t have to mean lying in your room while everyone else is having fun.  Book a spa day as an alternative.  Or treat yourself to a day next to the pool with a good book.

During my recent time away, I experienced a day filled with excruciating pain.  Instead of wallowing in self-pity and misery I phoned my best friend as a distraction from the pain.  I found this useful and made my day brighter.  Perhaps you can think about having your person standby in case you need them.

But perhaps the most beneficial part of self-care for anyone is sleep! So try and get a good night’s sleep and nap whenever you feel like you need it. Sleep is perhaps the best form of self-care there is.

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COMING HOME

In my experience, travelling can be extremely taxing.  Take a few free days to allow yourself to settle back into your routine and allow your body to recover. Spend the time to pamper yourself and catch up on your favourite TV programmes. Or reminisce while flicking through your photographs from your incredible trip.

Oh, and plenty of sleep, trust me your body will thank you for it!

[Tweet “Allow some free days after returning from your travels to allow your body to recover.”]

And most of all – congratulate yourself! You made it outside of your safe comfort zone. Not allowing the baggage that you carry because of chronic illness from stopping you from seeing the world.  And no letting chronic illness rob you of the excitement and enjoyment that travel offers!

As Illness Becomes Permanent the Person We Once Were Fades Into Oblivion

Anyone living with a chronic illness is all too aware of the constant impact that comes from the day to day persistence of symptoms such as chronic pain, and fatigue can have, as we watch the person we once were fade into oblivion. Symptoms that first started as mild, seemingly benign, suddenly become invariable. Their presence, not a result of a brief illness but a permanent and life-changing condition. Over time, these symptoms take over our body and mind. The purest pleasures that we once so enjoyed suddenly becomes unattainable. Once something like going on holiday was pleasurable and now invoked anxieties when travelling.

Perhaps it was different for me. The neurological condition that I eventually diagnosed with is as a result of a problem that arose during my birth. As such has left its permanent scar on my life since. Although the symptoms were at first insignificant have become progressively worse since.  As such, I have never been an adventurous or outdoor person. Sports, for example, has never been my thing, proving myself to be more of a clumsy and uncoordinated person. Growing up, and struggling to fit in with others, I was quite happy to stay at home, tucked away in my bedroom to read or watch a favourite film.

Preferring the Safety of the Familiar

Even when I ventured on my own to attend university away from home, I eventually returned after several weeks. I found myself unable to cope away from the comfort and safety of familiar surroundings while navigating mysterious and unexplainable symptoms. Although never a strong passion of mine, I always enjoyed travelling. Whether it be visiting other parts of the UK or soaking up different cultures abroad.

However, as time passed, these symptoms grew in intensity. The culmination of which was preventing me from living life. Anxiety, pain, fatigue, and vertigo were taking over my every day, slowing becoming my new normal.  Endless trips to see consultants and specialists proved fruitless.  Until the diagnosis of a neurological disorder. A burden that I must now carry with me wherever I go.

Were my days of travelling finished?

When the symptoms began to deteriorate, I thought the days of travelling was over.  Feeling the constant effects of such debilitating symptoms, it seemed safer to stay within the comfort zone that my illness has enforced. Afraid that like my illness, this limiting comfort zone is permanent.  My world had become limited, whereas the symptoms became more pronounced and took a more significant part of my life.

"Feeling the constant effects of such debilitating symptoms, it seemed safer to stay within the comfort zone that my illness has enforced. Afraid that like my illness, this limiting comfort zone is permanent. " Share on X
quote life begins at the end of your comfort zone

Life Begins at the End of Our Comfort Zones

But there came a time when I wanted to see more of the world.  Thanks to funding from our local authority, I was able to employ a carer to take me out for a few hours a week. As I  began to visit new places and learned to push through the effects of such debilitating symptoms, my confidence increased. It was only then I  decided to go on holiday for the first time in I can’t remember how long.  Due to the severity of the dizziness, vertigo and perceptual difficulties that come along with them, we decided to try a cruise to avoid the long waiting in an airport terminal.

Lessons Learned From Cruising

Last month, I returned from my fourth cruise.  And ever since, I’ve come to reflect on my experiences of travelling while living with a long-term health condition.  Before the trip, I had been experiencing increasing neuropathic pain in the legs. The excruciating pain often had me sobbing with the intensity of the torment it inflicts. Pain so severe it even made me physically sick as a result. It, unfortunately, continued throughout the cruise. The pain forced me to submit to the painkillers, prescribed to me in case of such debilitating pain. It, however, only added to nausea I was already experiencing due to the motion of the ship.

Where we are is irrelevant; pain is pain. It will be there no matter where we are

But it made me realise, that location is irrelevant.

Pain is pain.

Symptoms are symptoms.

"Where we are is irrelevant. Pain is pain. Symptoms are symptoms. They will be there no matter where we are." Share on X

They are going to occur no matter where we are. Being crippled, writhing in pain, crouched over the toilet at home is no different from being debilitated by pain in the cabin of a cruise ship.  Yes, it’s easier to manage and plan for symptoms when in the security of familiar surroundings but can be achieved even when on the move.  It just requires careful planning, packing essential items that will help manage symptoms when they do occur.

"Yes, it's easier to manage and plan for symptoms when in the security of familiar surroundings but can be achieved even when travelling. It just requires careful planning." Share on X

As this realisation became reaffirmed after each trip I took, it became easier to depart on further cruises.  As flares occurred before a trip, however, inevitable doubts crept in. Doubts which questioned whether I could cope with travel while enduring such severe symptoms. But as the holiday was already fully paid for, as Queen once sang “The Show Must Go On.”

Over time, I have evaluated the limits that the neurological disorder and its symptoms have on my life and adapted my travel as needed.

"Over time, I have evaluated the limits that the neurological disorder and its symptoms have on my life and adapted my travel as needed." Share on X

For the Love of Cruising

I know that places with high ceilings trigger severe episodes of vertigo, hence why cruising has become so appealing.  The trembling of my legs and the lack of warning before they give way means that I am unable to walk far. As such I have particularly enjoyed the Norwegian Fjords as many of these ports are within the towns themselves and they tend to be easy to navigate by yourself.  Also, cruise companies offer some lovely excursions and all itineraries details the total length of the tour and how much activity (like walking) there is so that you can choose one best suited to you and your particular needs.

"For successful travel, we need to evaluate our limits and adapt our plans accordingly." Share on X

As chronic pain is a constant companion of mine, before our cruise, we’d booked a trip to the incredible Blue Lagoon in Iceland. The warm mineral water helps melt away pain and stiffness.  And it worked!  The whole time we were in the beautiful blue water, my pain levels markedly decreased.  We booked a couple of other trips in several of the other ports on the itinerary. All under four hours and had minimal walking involved but still allowed me to appreciate the fantastic sights that Norway and Iceland offers.

The luscious and relaxing water of the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik, Iceland

The Anxiety of Being Outside Our Comfort Zone

Before a trip, of course, the monster that is anxiety rears its ugly head. I begin to question whether I am strong enough to cope with constant and debilitating symptoms while travelling.  However, I have survived and at times even thrived even while away from the safe and familiar. Although there were difficult times, I got through them.  I even became stronger and resilient as a result.  I since, have been able to reassure myself with the mantra “You can do this.  You’ve been through worse, and got through things you thought you couldn’t but did.”

"Despite the difficult times, travelling has helped me become stronger and more resilient." Share on X

You become resilient when the intense swelling of the sea, constantly upsets your sense of balance, making it difficult to walk. And you become resilient when crippled with severe pain that feels as if it will never end.  You’re resilient for enduring continuous and unrelenting symptoms and still getting up and enjoying all a holiday has to offer.

The Great Unpredictability of Illness is Much Like The Great Unpredictability of the Weather

This year, reminded me of the great unpredictability of the weather. Unfortunately, high winds prevented the ship from docking in two of the ports scheduled on our trip.

It told me that like the weather the symptoms of chronic illness is also unpredictable.  But as it reminded me, unpredictability doesn’t have to ruin fun or enjoyment of plans; it just means finding ways around the restrictions like the weather or our symptoms.

As much as travelling can be stressful, and that anxiety will be a part of future travel plans, I pledge not to let that stop me. I believe that travel is something that has me happier, stronger and more resilient.  Despite the limitations that the symptoms have on my life, I still want adventure in the great wide somewhere.

"Despite the limitations that the symptoms have on my life, I still want adventure in the great wide somewhere." Share on X
belle quote beauty and the beast adventure in the great wide somewhere
A post about why I crave travel and adventure despite living with constant and often debilitating symptoms of a neurological disorder

Sheryl, as well as sharing her own stories about living with a chronic illness, is a great support to other bloggers and writers.  One such way is through monthly link-up parties whereby bloggers and writers share their stories through given prompts.  I’ve decided to take part in this month’s Link Up Party, using the prompts to help others gain insight into travelling when living with a neurological disorder.

Travel and visiting new destinations is one of the great joys of life.

Whether it be for a few days or several weeks, travel allows us to escape our lives, allowing the pursuit that of which is important to us. Or the freedom to seek out activities that we have always wanted to try but never found time to accomplish.

Living with a neurological condition, however, can make travel exceptionally difficult.  Living with constant and unrelenting symptoms, especially those which can be unpredictable, can often force you into a bubble; a little prison where we’re happiest in the safe and familiar surroundings of home.  Home is secure, like a security blanket. Although the symptoms are incredibly unpleasant, it is easier to endure behind the closed doors of our homes. It’s safe, but it’s not living, is it?

"Our symptoms are often easier to endure when at home amongst the comfort and familiarity of home." Share on X

If we are to endure the persistent and tenacious symptoms everywhere, then why not do so amidst the unknown and breathtaking scenery of foreign lands.

We are sick, and thus can be ill anywhere, so why not travel?

If I am to be sick, then I can be sick anywhere.

That’s why I decided to step outside the comfort zone of my familiar surroundings.  I chose to live.  To live with the symptoms of this neurological condition instead of merely enduring them.

We have found cruising the most accessible and enjoyable way of travelling while in the company of a neurological disorder. And so a love of cruising began.

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cruise ship anthem of the seas docked
Anthem of the Seas

That is not to say, that it has become any straightforward, however.  There is always some anxiety and trepidation before embarking on our travels.  The fear of the unknown; the unknown of when we will experience a severe flare in our symptoms.  The uncertainty of whether we will manage to leave our hotel room. The fear that pain and other symptoms will dictate our travels just as it does every day while at home.

Currently, I have been experiencing a severe chronic pain flare.  So intense, that I have found myself crippled on the floor of my bathroom, retching with the intensity of it. So the worry of travelling while amid such crippling pain began.

Lesson Learnt When Travelling: My Strength and Resilience Despite Illness

However, I realised that to defeat this recent attack of chronic pain and the accompanying anxiety; I need to look back and remember the previous times I have been on a cruise. And need reminding of the coping techniques that helped me endure chronic pain, and the other problematic symptoms while being in uncertain and unfamiliar surroundings.

This year marks my fourth cruise. By looking back to my past adventures at sea, I can identify what helped manage and control my symptoms before so that I can put these same arrangements in place.  Already, this has involved an appointment with my GP for a prescription for strong painkillers to manage the chronic pain while away from home and motion sickness tablets. Not only do they help ease nausea caused by sea-sickness, but they can also help reduce the severity of the dizziness and attacks of vertigo that I frequently experience.  And with chronic pain comes painsomnia and so I have bought lavender and chamomile pillow spray to help me sleep.

"By reminding myself of the strategies that helped manage my symptoms, I can put these in place again."] Share on X
feather down lavender and chamomile pillow spray
Lavender is one of my favourite essential oils to help me sleep when I’m experiencing the dreaded painsomnia

Lesson Learnt When Travelling: The Power of Pacing!

When living with a chronic illness, one of the critical techniques in our self-management toolbox is pacing.  Chronic illness affects our energy levels, and thus we only have limited battery life. By learning how to space out activities, we can learn to stay within the limits of what our bodies can handle without exacerbating our symptoms. Or before running out of battery life altogether.

Pacing, therefore, is an essential coping technique when on holiday. And away from our daily routines and behaviours, especially as many holiday activities may deplete our already exhausted battery levels.  Jennifer, from The Health Sessions, recommends for every active-day we follow this with one day of rest. Doing so allows our bodies to recover between energy-consuming activities. When on a cruise, however, pacing can be awkward as we are not in control of the itinerary.  It is crucial that we are mindful of our limitations and not to exceed them, spoiling the remainder of our relaxing time away.

"For every active day follow this with one day of rest to help manage our energy." Share on X
battery life low mobile phone
With fatigue being a common symptom of chronic illness, it means that we only have limited battery life and one which gets depleted quickly if we don’t pace ourselves

Lesson Learnt When Travelling: The Need For Surrendering to Symptoms

As much as pacing can help manage our symptoms, however, we are more than likely will still experience flares.  If so, we need more than ever to surrender and take care of ourselves. Yes, even if it does mean missing out on specific events and activities that our holidays may have on offer.  I know from experience that this can be difficult, and we tend to criticise ourselves for missing out. Instead, we should be congratulating ourselves for even managing to get away from the security of home. And for not letting chronic illness make a prisoner of our own lives.

Travelling with chronic illness can sometimes mean surrendering to it; finding ways to make whatever we’d like to do on holiday manageable for ourselves and our weak bodies.

"It is important to find ways to make whatever we like to do on holiday manageable for ourselves."] Share on X

Lesson Learnt When Travelling: To Go With The Flow

Travelling with chronic illness also means learning to go with the flow.

Change and not knowing what to expect can be difficult when living with a chronic illness because it’s the not knowing what to expect that makes it much harder to anticipate, plan and manage our symptoms.  Therefore, perhaps not making concrete plans may be of some use when on holiday and instead take part in the activities and events on offer when we know we can enjoy them.

"Not knowing what to expect makes it harder to anticipate, plan and manage our symptoms." Share on X

Travelling Helps To Improve Ourselves

It may sound that travelling while living with a neurological disorder is more trouble than it’s worth.  In my mind, however, and despite all of the problems, it isn’t.  Travelling offers the opportunity for us to improve ourselves.  Whenever we venture outside our comfort zones and visit places we’ve never been before our world expands and our eyes open to new possibilities like never before.  Travel, especially when living with a life-long condition allows for us to learn things about ourselves, our needs and capabilities that we may never have known otherwise.

In my four years of cruising, I have learned that the more I do so, it also improves my aptitude of being away from home, despite how uncomfortable it can make me.

Chronic illness can rob us of many things, but we should not let it rob us the enjoyment and excitement of new adventures.

"Chronic illness should not rob us of the enjoyment and excitement of new adventures." Share on X
Link Up Party with A Chronic Voice: Lessons Learnt When Travelling

Thank you to the lovely Emma, who writes a fantastic blog at Not Just Tired, which raises awareness of ME/CFS and how to live well despite it, for tagging me to take part in #behindtheillness.  This lovely exercise aims to share fun facts about yourself and let others know things about you beyond chronic illness.

Here we go!

Four places I’ve lived:

  1. Minden, Germany
  2. Chepstow, South Wales
  3. Fallingbostel, Germany
  4. Pontypridd, South Wales

Four places I’ve worked: 

  1. Sales Assistant, Somerfield Stores
  2. Volunteer Resource Centre Worker for Mind
  3. Volunteer Support Worker for those with Special Educational Needs
  4. School Peer Counsellor during Sixth Form

Four favourite hobbies: 

  1. Writing my blog
  2. Reading of any description!
  3. Enjoying a relaxing spa day when I can
  4. Going to the theatre

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A great memory of going to see Legally Blonde. Such a fun musical and left with a great big smile on my face!

Four things I like to watch: 

  1. Films and particularly enjoy a lovely rom-com or something uplifting
  2. Crime dramas – so much choice, I couldn’t possibly choose just one!
  3. Loving binge-watching Arrow at the moment
  4. Soaps – great to watch and unwind during the nights

Four things I love to read:

  1. Anything by Jodi Picoult
  2. Chick-lit for a bit of light reading
  3. Crime novels
  4. Other people’s blogs

Four places I’ve been: 

  1. Olden, Norway
  2. Stavanger, Norway
  3. Florida, USA
  4. Cornwall on many a family holiday!

2016-06-02 09.51.38
The beauty of Olden

Four things I love to eat: 

  1. Lasagna
  2. Roast Dinner (Chicken Roast Dinner in particular)
  3. Chocolate
  4. Chicken Korma – ultimate comfort food!

Four favourite things to drink: 

  1. Water
  2. Hot Chocolate
  3. Peppermint Tea
  4. Apple Juice

IMG_0214
Nothing more comforting than a mug of delicious Hot Chocolate!

Four places I want to visit: 

  1. Verona, Italy
  2. Prague
  3. Lake Como, Italy
  4. Banff, Canada

Four bloggers I’d like to tag:

  1. Mackenzie from Life with an Illness
  2. Sarah from The F Word
  3. Charlotte from FND and Me
  4. Jen from Spoonfuls of Glitter

Phew! It was so hard to narrow it down to just four bloggers as there are so many wonderful bloggers that I would love to have also tagged (and more who have already participated!). But for those who have not yet been nominated, feel free to share your answers as I would love to know you all more.

And thanks again to Emma for nominating me!

Rhiann xx

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