I wake up each morning with an unpredictable level of energy shaped by chronic head pain, dizziness, and visual sensitivity from my vestibular disorder, caused by a stroke in 2021. Before my feet even hit the floor, I already know how much or how little I’ll be able to do that day. Although I’ve been committed to nurturing my physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness daily, it’s still difficult to communicate the invisible nature of my challenges to others.
That’s why Spoon Theory, created by Christine Miserandino, resonated so deeply with me. It’s a metaphor used to explain how people with chronic illnesses manage limited energy. Each spoon represents a unit of energy. Basic tasks, like recording my podcast, cooking a meal, or walking the dogs, can cost anywhere from one to four spoons, depending on how much they trigger my symptoms. Once I run out of spoons for the day, they’re gone until I get restorative rest.
Unlike those with abundant energy, “spoonies” must choose how to invest theirs wisely. Creativity, connection, and spiritual practices help me fill my emotional and spiritual cup, but even those take spoons. Spoon Theory gives me language to honor my limitations, to pace myself with purpose, and to protect the joy and serenity I need for healing.
Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and YouTube.
For more information, visit me at recoverydailypodcast.com or email me at rachel@recoverydailypodcast.com.
Visit my Etsy shop, Recovery Upcycling. https://www.etsy.com/shop/RecoveryUpcycling
For more information about vestibular disorders, visit https://vestibular.org.
Resource: https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/mental-health/spoon-theory
#SpoonTheory #ChronicIllnessAwareness #PaceYourselfWithPurpose #InvisibleIllness #VestibularDisorder #EnergyManagement #SpoonieLife #HealingJourney #EmotionalSobriety #FillYourCup
