May 25, 2025

Today was a necessary rest day after overdoing it yesterday. I knew I had pushed too hard, and my body made sure to remind me of that fact. So today was all about damage control. I did everything I could to manage the flare-up before it got any worse.

My daughter and I spent the entire day curled up watching Netflix together. Sometimes the best medicine is just giving yourself permission to do absolutely nothing productive except heal and spend time with the people you love most.

Despite feeling rough, I did manage to get some posts scheduled for Chronically Hustling from bed (thank goodness for laptops and the ability to work horizontally!). I also completely revamped my Patreon – you should definitely head over and check out what I’ve put together. Even on flare days, sometimes those little bursts of creative energy surprise you.

My Flare Day Dream Team

Today my lifelines were:

• My daughter (who also happens to be my best friend) – nothing beats quality time with your favorite person
• My puppies – because cuddles from furry friends always help more than any medicine
• My husband – who continues to be amazing by handling almost all the cooking (seriously, what would I do without him?)
• My trusty neck massager – during flare-ups, my worst pain always settles in my neck and shoulders, and this device is worth its weight in gold

The Reality of Chronic Illness Management

This is what living with chronic conditions actually looks like. The constant balance between pushing yourself when you feel good and paying for it later. Yesterday felt manageable, so I did more. Today, my body is asking for that energy back with interest.

But here’s what I’ve learned: rest days aren’t failures. They’re part of the management strategy. They’re investing in tomorrow by taking care of today.

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is recognize when your body needs you to stop and listen. Today was one of those days. I’m grateful I had the support system and tools to make it through reasonably comfortably.

Here’s to hoping tomorrow brings a little more energy and a little less pain. For now, I’m signing off from my cozy Netflix nest.

Living with chronic illness means some days are for doing, and some days are for healing. Both are equally important.

The dogs are snoring. I’m signing off. See you tomorrow. 💜