Living Gently with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue
Living with fibromyalgia is a lesson in limits-and in listening. It’s not something I chose, but it has absolutely changed the way I choose to live. If you’re navigating chronic illness, invisible pain, or constant fatigue, you’re not alone. I want to share why I’ve embraced a simpler, slower life-not because I wanted to, but because I had to-and why it’s turned out to be more beneficial than I expected.
The Wake-Up Call: My Body Gave Me No Choice
Fibromyalgia isn’t just about aching muscles or being “a little tired”. It’s like moving through mud with weights strapped to your body. After years of pushing through and pretending I was fine, my body finally said, “That will be enough of that!”
Tasks that used to take me an hour took me days to accomplish. Simple errands left me flattened and exhausted. I couldn’t do it all anymore-I had to stop even trying.
That’s where simple living came in.
What Simple Living Means to Me Now
Simple living, slow living, intentional living….call it what you will. For me, it’s no longer about creating a perfect life-it’s about creating a livable one. I’ve learned there is no such thing as “perfect”, with much ache in my heart I’m learning to let go and embrace “good enough”. My perfectionism caused me a lot of issues. This is how I live now.
My version of simple living includes:
- NOT doing everything in one day. I now prioritize what needs to be done first.
- I rest as much as much as I am active
- I limit what’s on my schedule and in my home
- Focusing on meals that are delicious but can be made easily
- Creating routines that work with my energy level-not against it
It’s not about minimalism or aesthetics. It’s about peace, functionality, and giving myself permission to live at the pace my body demands.
Living with Fibromyalgia: The Need for Rhythms Over Routines
Most advice about productivity or homemaking doesn’t account for chronic illness. What works for others often doesn’t work for us. I’ve had to shift from rigid routines to gentle rhythms. I never really know how I’m going to feel day-to-day so I adjust my schedule according to how I’m feeling each day.
Instead of “Get all the laundry done on Mondays,” I try, “Do one load when you feel you can do it.”
Instead of “30 minute work out daily” I aim for, “10 minute gentle standing work outs,” or whatever my body will allow for the day.
The key I’ve come to find is being flexible and giving yourself the grace to slow down when you need to.
How You Can Start Living Simply (Even If You’re Not Sick)
You don’t need a diagnosis to choose a slower, simpler life, Whether you’re dealing with fibromyalgia, chronic pain, burnout, or just exhaustion from modern life-you’re allowed to jump off the hamster wheel.
Start with:
- One drawer to declutter
- One corner of your home to make cozy
- One day where you say “no” to extra obligations
- Drop a habit that is causing you stress
Small steps add up and can quickly reshape your life.
Simple Doesn’t Mean Small-It Means Intentional
I used to think a simple life would feel boring or limited. But I honestly feel much more at peace!
I have more time to connect. More space to breathe. More energy for the things that fill my heart.
Further Reading: Living with Fibromyalgia
If you want more insight into fibromyalgia and strategies for managing it, I recommend this helpful resource from the National Fibromyalgia Association. It’s a gentle place to start if you’re looking for support or understanding.
Final Thoughts: A Life That’s Slower, But so Much Richer
Choosing a simpler life wasn’t a trend for me. It was survival. And Now? It’s a lifestyle that honors my limits and my dreams.
If you’re in a season where your body is asking you to slow down, I hope you’ll listen. There’s peace on the other side.
From My Hearth to Yours,
Becky♥️
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