My heart goes out to all-
I find there a few things that help my spirit. I’ve dropped my perfectionism. I don’t invite people over unless it’s to meet on my porch. I make sure to turn my chair to face them this way I don’t have to clean the house. I let Social things happen spontaneously - an example would be I will make one stop at the farmers market to stop at one vendor to buy food that’s pre-cooked, which I will put in the freezer for the week. Sometimes I will get into a conversation with someone and it takes my mind off my body; going to the pharmacy have a conversation with someone online or the pharmacist. It could be as simple as I like your blouse or good to see you, how’s today going? I take the focus off myself and it helps. Yes I get back in my car and I zoom right back home but at least I had a moments break. I don’t force myself into my hobbies and I try to keep my day wide open. I cancel plans very frequently and my few very few friends understand I’d rather not be invited over and over and over and over and over and over just to cancel again; keeping simple routines that involve self-care and using imagination and the toolbox is really important to get out of a horrible flare. I try my very best to not miss doctors appointments because they are the ones who keep me on my path. I try to phrase my situation to others as “I live in a very uncomfortable body” - most people don’t understand if you have complex multi system, health issues, and pain. My little dog is a great distraction, as well as just sitting outside with a little camera and hand ready to photograph nature.
As difficult as it is living alone we have to train ourselves to ask for help. We’re lucky that we live in a time of delivery to our doorstep. I do keep up a façade when I go out to look good. I try to be private with my ailments, but will open up to the right person whenever wherever. Sending love and light and many more good daysto everyone.