Much of what we read and hear about chronic disease leaves us feeling a bit helpless and discouraged. Today, though, my spirits are up way high. I’m not letting the ever-increasing debilitating arthritic pain get me down. I’m defiantly faithful amidst the pain…. **
Body
One word to describe my Lupus body today: Arthritis
Which habits and rituals did I practice to soothe my Lupus body?
- Ate a clean diet
- Stayed hydrated
- Slept well
More details about my physical symptoms:
Dominating my Lupus body today was the arthritic pain in my hips, back, neck, and the latest to be thrown in the mix—my shoulder. Adhesive scapulitis, or frozen shoulder, is another condition common in Lupus patients. It came on suddenly—the horrible pain and inability to move my arm up, down sideways, backwards. Simple tasks like putting on deodorant, getting dressed, or taking care of business in the bathroom requires help. This has been going on for weeks now. At least, I’m finally able to get a good night’s sleep after Hubby found a special body pillow called Snoogle. It’s for pregnant women to support the weight of the baby on the back and other joints, but it works great for my arthritic joints and bones, too. I put the Snoogle up there with my Bed Buddy to help me get a good night’s sleep.
Mind
One word to describe my Lupus mind today: Still
Which habits and rituals did I practice to strengthen my Lupus mind?
- Learned about Lupus
- Managed expectations
More details and thoughts about how I’m feeling emotionally today:
When I’m having an extra painful day like today, I quiet myself. Today, instead of working like crazy to finish my book-related tasks, I decided to read more about the latest addition to my pain repertoire—frozen shoulder. Learning that it’s related to Lupus wasn’t entirely surprising, but at least I know what to expect and how to treat it. Nothing like knowledge to help you manage your expectations.
Spirit
One word to describe my spirit today: Faith-filled
Which habits and rituals did I practice to nurture my Lupus spirit?
- Embraced uncertainty
- Enjoyed sacred space
Thoughts about my spiritual connection and spiritual lessons learned today:
Despite all the pain, my spirits were high today. Maybe it was the sunshine and cooler weather or maybe it was just knowing that I’m taken care of. Or, maybe it’s the idea that no matter what this Lupus tries to do to my body and mind, I have faith that I’ll be okay.
Meals
Today my meals were:
- Breakfast: Paleo banana muffin, Gala apple
- Lunch: Leftover homemade turkey meatloaf, rice
- Dinner: Cornish hen, rice, broccoli
- Snacks: None
Thanks
At least one thing that I’m grateful for today:
- Hubby
- Home
**(This post is based on the format of the Lupus Diary that I developed for keeping track of how Lupus affects my body, mind, and spirit, I check-in here once a week to let you know about the more interesting days of my Lupus journey. To learn more about the Lupus Diary, how I developed it, and why I use it, click here.)
