Reflect Your Inner Peace

Dealing with insomnia, migraines, concussions, whiplash, hyperthyroid, and other things that come with having a rare chronic illness is not something I ever expected.

And though people may think the physical challenges are hard, in my opinion, the emotional toll is much harder.

Especially as someone who’s used to being a “high-achiever,” the trajectory of my life went from a promising career in healthcare to barely getting out bed for an entire year.

The underlying nervous system issues, anxiety, ADHD, and depression symptoms as a result was worse than the pain.

And even though I relate to others’ experiences, I feel like I don’t actually belong in the chronic illness space.

It can feel overly focused on the negatives (I’m talking to you, depressing “support” groups)…or promote the unrealistic “my illness is my superpower” stuff.

I don’t want to feel overly sorry for myself but I also don’t want to be unrealistic.

Nor do I think our unique journeys are accurately represented by a ribbon, or a zebra, or a spoon.

Instead, I want to appreciate the beauty in the nuances, the inner peace we can still find in our daily life, and the strength in vulnerability.

I do this through creative mental reframing, a practice that I’ve worked on over the last 10 years.

It’s stopped me from looking at life with a sense of despair, but instead with a quiet, unwavering hope.

Instead of thinking “I can’t…” I think “how can I?”

And there’s no conflict of interest because I respect my body’s limitations without guilt.

And it doesn’t mean I’m lazy, lack ambition, or am not working hard enough.

I can work hard, be a good spouse, love my family, take care of my mental health, and have deep friendships.

And SO MANY of us with chronic illnesses can say that, but nobody has said that to us because they’re too busy calling our illness either inspiring or a tragedy.

Creative mental reframing is not about extremes, but true inner balance, harmony, and peace.

It’s not about “trying harder” because guess what, you already are trying harder than most people.

It’s not me telling you what to do, it’s about revealing the options you already have.

You discover when you should take control and when you should let go of it.

It’s also not another box to be put in, because it is centered on individuality.

Adapting and changing perspectives

on living with a chronic illness

is what I do best

Reflecting that in art as a forever reminder is my gift.

I would love to share that gift with you, and the beautiful practice behind it.

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