Creating a routine when Chronic Illness makes it tough
Living with a chronic health condition (whether pain specific or otherwise) brings its own set of challenges – especially when it comes to creating a routine.
But there are ways to create routines that might help - on the days when they're possible.
Tip one – create mini routines to fit into your day
These are small things that might fit into your day, depending on pain and energy levels.
For example, if brushing your teeth is something you often forget to do, you can add it to the end of your bathroom time when you get washed, before you leave that space.
Tip two – create a routine for the different types of days your experience
The types of days we experience as spoonies vary a lot. On some days, no plan will work - and that's ok. But here a few thoughts on making some plans.
For example – on “good” days you might include tasks that you otherwise can’t do (such as tidying up a specific area, or getting a washing load done).
On the tougher days, your routine might instead include reminders to eat and drink, use supportive technology like a tens machine or electric heat pad, and to take things easy.
Remember – if things don’t go as expected – that is OK. Just be kind to yourself and adapt your plans to what your body needs on the day. Routines are meant to work FOR you - and really aren't about beating yourself up if you don't manage them.
You've got this! Sending spoonie hugs!
