Finding Balance During a Flare

There was a fantastic question posed in our forums about how to fill our time while our bodies are healing. While it might initially seem like it should have a simple answer similar to, "Well, I just do," the reality is that when you are having a flare (or almost anytime, really), how you choose to manage your time can make a big difference for both your physical and mental health.

Finding the middle ground

One of the key aspects of managing your physical and mental health during a flare is finding the middle ground. In my experience — even during a flare —, if I lay around and stare at the wall while trying to rest, I somehow manage to convince myself that I feel worse than I might actually feel. Finding the middle ground is a balancing act between rest and movement, with mental positivity and purpose.

Distraction therapy

I’m a big believer in distraction therapy. I absolutely adore learning (must be the teacher in me), and distracting myself with a new topic to learn about keeps me from falling into the pit of "poor me syndrome." Distraction therapy has been a lifesaver for my mental health. Reading, watching videos, and, when I’m able, trying something new keeps me focused on the idea that there is more to life than my pain and suffering.

Yes, it is sometimes difficult with frequent brain fog, but learning and thinking slowly is so much better than going into the spiraling abyss of dark thoughts like "What’s the point?" or "Why has my life become so utterly useless?" So I always keep a running list of things I might be interested in learning more about. This includes anything from crafting projects to American history topics. If it sparks my curiosity, then I add it to the list. This keeps my brain engaged on more positive topics than my own self-loathing.

Listening to our bodies, but not focusing on pain

In my experience, listening to your body is very important, but the key to doing it effectively is balance — because, y’all, your body will lie. It will scream and throw temper tantrums that give a toddler a run for his money. I might be alone in this, but for me, if I listen too closely and catalog every ache and pain, especially during a flare, then that honestly tends to make me feel worse.

For example, if I try to do a craft and after only 5 or 10 minutes my hands give up, then I listen and do something else or simply rest for a bit. I try not to give up on everything for the whole day. I take frequent breaks and give myself credit for just trying.

Your body will tell you what helps

There are many great ideas on our site on how to practically manage your flare symptoms. Some people find soothing Epsom salt soaks helpful. Others like heat or ice. I tend towards using my TENS unit for irritating aches. But in my experience, the best way to figure out what works for you is time and process of elimination. Your body will tell you if something helps or hurts. Sometimes it helps to alternate periods of rest with periods of gentle movements (think small stroll around your house).

What works for you?

I’m always on the hunt for new ideas, topics, or hobbies. And I do my best to try and find the balance of nurturing my physical, spiritual, and mental health, especially during a flare.

How do you manage the time between rest, flaring, and movement while keeping your mental health in check? How do you find that delicate balance?