Practicing Self Care with Rheumatism

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is appreciated.

Picture this: I'm in my early 20s, fresh out of college, and bam! RA diagnosis hits me like a ton of bricks. Cue the existential crisis: did I somehow summon this chronic illness by stressing about work and life? Talk about a guilt trip!

Every morning felt like Groundhog Day, waking up to a symphony of pain and wondering if this was my new normal. Plus, to add to the fun, I'd relocated for my first post-college gig, leaving behind my support system.

I'll admit it—I fell into a deep funk. I kept telling myself, "Just snap out of it, and you'll feel better." But when my doc rattled off a laundry list of meds and potential side effects, I hit rock bottom faster than you can say "pharmaceutical roulette."

Let's shine a spotlight on a topic that often gets swept under the rug: the mental toll of chronic illnesses like RA. While most folks are familiar with the physical battles, the emotional rollercoaster tends to fly under the radar. But trust me, it's a real doozy.

RA Depression is like a shadow looming over one in five of us with these diagnoses, casting a gloomy haze over our day-to-day lives. Lethargy, irritability, and the attention span of a goldfish? Yep, all par for the course. And let's not forget about the pain—the relentless, soul-crushing pain that follows us from dawn 'til dusk, turning even the simplest tasks into Herculean feats.

Suddenly, mundane activities like getting dressed or slogging through your inbox feel like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops.

And let's not even talk about the emotional toll. Dealing with chronic pain day in and day out can turn even the sunniest disposition into a storm cloud of frustration and despair. It's like trying to navigate a minefield of emotions, never knowing when the next explosion will hit.

Managing mental wellness and prioritizing daily self-care isn't just a luxury—it's a lifeline for those facing the relentless challenges of chronic illnesses like RA.

Let's face it: dealing with something as tough and incurable as RA is like navigating a never-ending maze with no exit in sight. But while we may not have a magic cure, we do have the power to take control of our own well-being.

That's where good habits come into play. Whether it's carving out time for mindfulness practices, indulging in a little self-care pampering, or simply giving yourself permission to take a break when you need it most, these habits are like tiny anchors keeping us grounded.

Because here's the truth: managing RA isn't just about popping pills and crossing your fingers—it's about taking proactive steps to care for both your body and your mind. And while the journey may be long and winding, setting up these good habits along the way is like building a sturdy ship to weather any storm.

These are some of my favorites wellness strategies that have really helped me out.

Talk it Out.

At one point my thoughts were going to a rather unsavory place. I knew then it was time to get some professional help to deal with these emotions. Seeking support from a therapist is like giving yourself a much-needed lifeline in the choppy waters of mental health struggles.

Think about it: if you wanted to shed a few pounds, you wouldn't hesitate to hire a personal trainer, right? Well, when it comes to your mental well-being, it's no different. Turning to a mental health professional is like enlisting a coach to guide you through the tough times and help you build resilience for the road ahead.

And here's the good news: support is closer than you think! Many companies offer employee resource centers that provide access to mental health services, making it easier than ever to prioritize your well-being. Plus, there are awesome tools like Talkspace that bring therapy right to your fingertips, no matter where you are.

Creating a routine helped tremendously. I don't do anything crazy, but just accomplishing a few tasks before getting your work day started gets you off on the right foot.

Create a Routine.

I fell into the WFH struggle. I would wait until the very last minute to roll out of bed, brush my teeth and dive straight to work. I created a horrible cycle of wake up, work, tv, sleep. This was a recipe for burnout and that's exactly what I did. I left no space because just getting up was such a struggle.

Practicing Gratitude.

It's my daily pick-me-up! Morning and night, I take a moment to reflect on the little things I'm thankful for, jotting them down in my trusty journal. I bought this gratitude journal and I love it.

It has simple prompts to set the mood to begin and end the day. It's a quick practice that shifts my perspective and leaves me feeling great.

Mindful Massages.

Just the thought of it sends me into a state of relaxation! The soothing music, the warmth of the massage table...pure heaven. And as if that weren't enough, it's not just good for the soul—it works wonders for your physical health too, easing stiffness and tension.

Sweat it Out.

Introducing Infrared Sauna: My New Obsession! Recently, I stumbled upon the idea that it might help with my RA symptoms—though the jury's still out on that one. But let me tell you, I'm hooked regardless!

I've convinced myself it's like a workout, boosting cardiovascular health and all. Plus, the warmth works wonders for stretching out those muscles, leaving me feeling limber and relaxed.

And can we talk about the post-sauna glow? My skin feels like silk after a session. It's pure bliss! Here's the one I swear by—just set it up, cue up your favorite show or audiobook, and let the relaxation begin.

Reading.

Rediscovering the Joy of Reading: My Three-Book Rotation! Life can get hectic, and reading often falls by the wayside. But recently, I've rekindled my love for books—and let me tell you, it's been a game-changer!

I've adopted a three-book rotation that keeps things fresh and exciting. First up, I've got my "learning" book—something that expands my mind and challenges my perspective. Then, there's my nighttime read, the one that helps me unwind and drift off into dreamland. And last but not least, there's the audiobook, perfect for those moments when I'm on the go or just need a change of pace.Check out some of my current reads.

Wellness Walks.

Embrace the Power of Walking! Rain or shine, I'm out there soaking up the sunlight and fresh air. There's nothing quite like it to instantly boost your mood!

Whenever work gets overwhelming, I hit pause and take a stroll. Just one lap around the block can work wonders for clearing my head and lifting my spirits.

Self-Care Sips.

Now, we all know that alcohol isn't exactly the best buddy for autoimmune issues. But fear not—there are plenty of other delightful beverages to indulge in for a little self-care pick-me-up!

Sure, tea is the classic go-to for its calming properties, but why stop there? For me, it's all about finding that perfect sip that sends me straight to my happy place. Sometimes, it's an indulgent iced coffee with Chobani non-dairy sweet cream, or perhaps a refreshing glass of fresh lemonade on a sunny day.

But don't get me wrong—I'm a tea girly through and through. In fact, I've even incorporated it into my nightly routine for an extra dose of relaxation. This is my favorite night time tea, bonus it has tumeric to offer some anti-inflammatory benefits.

Social time.

While many self-care activities tend to be solo endeavors, let's not overlook the importance of community for mental well-being.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to get caught up in our own little bubbles. So don't be afraid to pick up the phone, send a text, or schedule a coffee date with a friend. Even if it's just a quick catch-up over Zoom, the power of human connection can work wonders for your soul.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and your people are always there to lift you up when you need it most. So please, don't isolate yourself—reach out, connect, and let your community wrap you in their love and support. Together, we're stronger!

So to all my fellow warriors battling RA: remember to prioritize your mental wellness, practice self-care like it's your job, and never forget the incredible strength that lies within you. What are some things you do to practice self-care, please share!