Coping with Chronic Illness: Discovering Joy in Daily Rituals
Coping with Chronic Illness: Discovering Joy in Daily Rituals
The Power of Daily Rituals
Navigating through life with a chronic illness is daunting. The never-ending struggle to complete even the most basic of tasks can leave one feeling defeated and in despair. But amidst this turmoil, I have found solace and empowerment in my daily self-care routine rituals.
Each morning, after savouring my morning cup of tea, I take the time to adorn myself with jewellery, and make-up and spritz on a mist of perfume. Even though I won't be leaving the house, these seemingly insignificant actions hold great significance for me. And, it is important to me. It's not about impressing anyone else, but rather about making myself feel good and put together.
The simple act of applying makeup and putting on some jewellery helps me feel more confident and ready to face the day, even if it's just from the comfort of my own home. Plus, it's a small way to express my style and creativity, which will brighten my mood and boost my overall well-being.
These small self-care rituals serve as reminders that despite my chronic illness, I am still in control and capable of finding moments of joy in my life.
Below I explain why:
Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures
For me, putting on makeup each day is not just about enhancing my appearance; it is a sacred ritual that provides comfort and control when my health refuses to cooperate. The act of carefully applying each product brings a sense of calm and routine to my day. Wearing jewellery adds not only external sparkle but also an internal gleam that reminds me of my strength and resilience.
The Power of Scent and Sparkle
Spraying the scent of a favourite perfume fills me with happiness and creates an aura of positivity around me - an intimate experience that enlightens my senses and even triggers happy memories. And, the scent stays with me throughout the day.
Enhancing Social and Emotional Well-being
Amidst the isolating nature of living with chronic illness, these small rituals also play a crucial role in enhancing my social and emotional well-being. The act of engaging in these routines, even in the confines of my home, allows me to feel more connected to the outside world. The subtle boost in confidence and the sense of normalcy gained from these rituals facilitate more positive social interactions and help me maintain a sense of connection with others, thereby alleviating feelings of loneliness and isolation that often accompany chronic illness.
These practices play a crucial role in helping me cope with the demands of the daily life of living with a Chronic illness and Chronic pain. Without them, I find my mental health inevitably takes a toll.
The small pleasures in life
Acknowledging Bad Days
Of course, there are days (many) when fatigue and debilitating pain take over completely or post-exertional malaise (PEM) hits– times when I find myself unable to indulge even these little pleasures. But no matter how poor my health gets on those overwhelming days; I strive hard not to let it entirely steal the moments of normality and joy these routines provide me.
These small acts of self-care may seem trivial to some, but for me, they are essential in maintaining a sense of peace in an otherwise abnormal existence.
It is my way of reclaiming some semblance of "normal" in a life that is far from ordinary.
Final thoughts
Chronic illness may have drastically altered my life, but through embracing simple joys hidden within daily routines, I can reclaim some control and find fragments of happiness amidst all the adversity. These rituals act as subtle reminders that even in the face of immense challenges, there is still beauty and joy to be found in everyday life.
They serve as subtle reminders that I can still find fragments of happiness. And, they are great for my self-esteem as well as my emotional health.
About me
I am a married mother of four children, in my mid 40's. I run a small business and enjoy writing, which is why I blog. My blog focuses on my experiences of living with chronic illnesses and disabilities such as ME/CFS, spinal stenosis, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.
