The limitations forced upon you when you have Lupus require a special type of unwavering fortitude. Without it, living a life of constant planning while bracing for the unexpected can try even the most stoic of us…. **
Body
One word to describe my Lupus body today: Limited
Which habits and rituals did I practice to soothe my Lupus body?
- Got a gentle massage
- Stayed hydrated
- Smiled and laughed
- Ate a clean diet
More details about my physical symptoms:
The day after Hubby’s birthday celebration overnight at a cozy cabin at Lake Tahoe. Because of Lupus, I had to plan every detail so that I could make his birthday enjoyable while making sure I protected myself from trigger foods, the sun, fatigue, etc. Even with all the planning, I wound up exhausted and in pain. So, here I am once again recovering physically from a happy occasion. Is the glass half empty or half full?
Mind
One word to describe my Lupus mind today: Insecure
Which habits and rituals did I practice to strengthen my Lupus mind?
- Managed expectations
- Protected alone time
- Managed stress response
More details and thoughts about how I’m feeling emotionally today:
I’m really fighting the feeling of not being enough for my husband. I know he was happy with the birthday getaway I planned, but I wish I didn’t have to restrict our activities so much. We just be couldn’t be spontaneous, and that upsets me. So, I’m working hard to manage my expectations of myself. I spent most of the day alone to get my head together and manage the stress of it all.
Spirit
One word to describe my spirit today: Empty
Which habits and rituals did I practice to nurture my Lupus spirit?
- Enjoyed sacred space
- Meditated, prayed, and visualized
Thoughts about my spiritual connection and spiritual lessons learned today:
Spiritual emptiness today. Sometimes my prayers have no words. Just quiet listening for wisdom and insight to pour down and fill me from above. I’m appreciative for the ability to pray in my sacred room.
Meals
Today my meals were:
- Breakfast: Paleo pumpkin muffin, Gala apple
- Lunch: Homemade chicken salad lettuce wrap
- Dinner: Leftover turkey meatloaf, mashed sweet potato, green beans
- Snacks: Almond butter on gluten-free toast with applesauce
Thanks
At least one thing that I’m grateful for today:
- Hubby
- Seeing the glass half full
**(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.)