Self-Care with a Chronic Illness: Step Away From the Computer

It's Arthritis Awareness Month! This month I am challenging you to take a little time each day and practice better self-care. Each day in May, I plan to share one simple way you can show yourself some love and appreciation.

Step Away From the Computer. For so many of us, social media is a place of friendship, community, and support. We have found others like us who completely get what it is like to live with a chronic illness. However, sometimes it is good to just step away. 

I recently wrote a piece for Creaky Joints titled Self-Care with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Take a Break From Social Media. I shared how my mind was too wrapped up in the thoughts and opinions of others and just needed a break to find quiet again. A weekend break turned into a month long break. During this time I woke up and chose to meditate in my favorite chair and read a book that nourished my soul rather than check in on others. I found myself calmer and happier. My eyes were focused on my family and all the wonderful things around me rather than buried in Facebook or Instagram. It was wonderful. 

For today, try it! Take one day or even one hour where you step away from it all. Let the happenings of your friends and family go unnoticed for a period of time. During my break I found it refreshing to actually hear about what was happening to others from their own mouths.