The warmer temps make it easier for us to get outside. It’s more exciting and inviting. And the birds are chirping and chattering. How wonderful and hopeful. It’s soothing and grounding.
However, when we live with a chronic illness, getting outdoors can be hard because we’ve been sedentary all winter. For many of us, it was hard to get out of the house because of all the ice and snow on the ground around our homes. But now, it’s like we got a new lease on life. Except we have to be cautious not to overdo it.
Thus, it’s important for us to mindfully and slowly get outside. When we do, everything will be dirty because of all the salt and grime from the winter. So, we’ll see a lot of we should be doing and cleaning. Yet, if we try to get it all done at once, we’ll pay dearly and what was enjoyable may end up not as uplifting and inspiring because we will find ourselves in bed with a flare.
In order not to overdo it, we should follow these steps:
- Make a list of everything you need to do. Write it in a home book or journal.
- Plan to do no more than a few things a day or even every other day.
- Plan not to work for more than 30 to 45 minutes a day on yard work.
- Don’t judge yourself for being too slow. It’s important for you to be lower and more intentional.
- Keep track of how much you get done in a week. You may be surprised at how much you get done.
By taking these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the spring season and slowly get things done so that once the real warm weather comes, you can just sit and enjoy your backyard and garden.
Try it!
Living With Chronic Illness 