ART FOR EMOTION  |  BLOG

When dealing with undiagnosed chronic mental or physical illness, waiting for answers can lead to feeling like a ghost in purgatory. After months or years of appointments, tests, procedures, and treatments  - eventually we may find some relief from the unknown. But what happens when the answers lead to more questions, and there is no cure? Suddenly we’re left to fight a battle we didn’t sign up for, and wondering how we can possibly be expected to “fix” ourselves.

The holidays can bring up feelings of stress and overwhelm, especially when combined with challenging family dynamics or high expectations. Fortunately, we can choose to let go of things outside of our control and prioritize healing. We don’t have to carry negative emotions or memories into the present. Choosing to move forward from a place of empathy, forgiveness, and understanding allows us to heal.

When you ignore grief, it doesn’t go away. Your body and your subconscious hold onto it. It piles onto itself - until, eventually, it can’t be contained anymore.

Preparing for Life with Chronic Illness Seven years ago I found out I was at a very high risk for chronic illness and autoimmune disease. Since autoimmune disease was very prevalent in my family, disabling one parent and nearly killing the other, I was very apprehensive about it. I had myself tested for the genetic markers and I tested positive. This meant I held the genetic code that increased my possibility for developing these illnesses. This, the doctor noted, did not

“I was working so hard, and doing so much overtime, that I was working 60 hours a week. It ultimately made my health go down the drain. I was getting 3 hours of sleep; I was exhausted all the time. Suddenly I ended up in the hospital."

Some days it's difficult to function at all, much less spend hours on some "perfect routine" that's supposedly going to cure you. Sometimes, it's as simple as remembering to brush your teeth or spend 10 minutes away from your bed. And that's okay. With that in mind, I've created a list of 88 self-care tips and activities for varying energy levels. Whether today is a low or high-functioning day, if you need a little pick-me-up this list is for you.