My Body Still Has Trust Issues, But We’re Working On It
If you had told me a few years ago that I would be writing a positive update about my Fibromyalgia journey, I probably would have laughed... and then needed a nap afterward.
Living with Fibromyalgia is a bit like being in a long-term relationship with an unpredictable roommate. Some days it lets you function like a normal human being, and other days it steals your energy, hides your keys, and leaves your body feeling like it has run a marathon you never signed up for.
But today, I want to talk about something that has genuinely made a difference in my life: LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone).
I have now been taking LDN for a year and a half, alongside several other treatments. People often ask if I get tired of all the medications, appointments, and routines. Honestly? Not really. If something helps me live a better quality of life, then I'm grateful for it. It isn't about how many treatments I take; it's about finding what works for my body.
And so far, so good.
For the first time in a very long time, I feel like I have a sense of control over my Fibromyalgia. Not complete control let's not get too dramatic here, but enough that I can recognize my limits and work with my body instead of constantly fighting against it.
My body is actually a pretty clever machine. It usually gives me warning signs when a flare is on its way. And if I somehow miss those signals, my dogs certainly don't. They somehow know before I do. Whether it's extra cuddles, refusing to leave my side, or following me around like tiny furry bodyguards, they always seem to know when I'm struggling.
They have become my unofficial therapists, and I will forever be thankful for them.
Mentally, LDN has been one of the biggest improvements I've noticed. I feel stronger, more capable, and better equipped to handle life's challenges. The anxiety and overwhelm that often came hand-in-hand with chronic illness don't seem quite as loud anymore.
Physically? Well, let's just say Fibromyalgia still likes to remind me who's boss.
Most mornings, I get about four good hours of what I call my "normal." Those precious hours are when I try to get things done, whether that's work, photography, writing, spending time with loved ones, or simply feeling like myself. After that, my body usually starts sending strongly worded emails that it's time to slow down.
Sleep and I are still negotiating our relationship. We haven't quite reached an agreement yet.
One lesson I've learned is that rest is not a reward it's a requirement. I now force myself to take days where I do absolutely nothing except the basics. No guilt. No pressure. Just rest. Because if Fibromyalgia has taught me anything, it's that ignoring your body's whispers usually leads to it screaming.
I know how fortunate I am to have such incredible support around me. My husband continues to be my safe place, my biggest cheerleader, and the person who helps carry the weight on days when I simply can't. I am also surrounded by people who genuinely want to learn more about Fibromyalgia, who listen without judgment, and who choose understanding over assumptions.
That kind of support is a gift.
Fibromyalgia is still part of my story. Depression, anxiety, and the mental health challenges that often accompany chronic illness are still chapters in the book. But they are no longer holding the pen.
For now, I am learning to celebrate the good days, show myself grace on the hard days, trust my furry therapists, and keep moving forward one step at a time.
And honestly? That's more than enough.
With love,
Flare & Flourish
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