THE FIBROMATES JOURNAL

by Breanna Gehln, Guest Blogger

My writing program has always had a lot of wonderful writers in it. I feel overjoyed and honored to write along with them. After an info session, I usually have a few writing/sharing sessions each time. During such times, I have witnessed so much great writing and authentic reflections.

Below, is an example of the great writing and sharing that takes place in the Writing Through Chronic Pain Program. I wanted to showcase it on the blog because it is so well written and authentic.

During the last session, I shared a writing prompt with the group. Then I asked the people in the group to write for 20 minutes about the journal prompt (see below), after which time we’d have a sharing session.

Below, I will share what Breanna shared with the group (with her permission).

Thank you Breanna for allowing us to showcase your beautiful writing and heartfelt reflection.

Writing Prompt: What are a few ways you can change your life for the better?

  If I said life was challenging, I‘d be preaching to the choir here. Most of us would agree that times are hard and pain is an annoying enemy to fight. Pain is like a boxer out of your league. He dodges every counter, he takes aim at your weakest points, and he will certainly cheat at every opportunity! Still, I wonder how many people give themselves enough credit for all they’ve accomplished, regardless of their struggles. Even when Pain is chasing you down the street, or finds you at your house, or decides you’ve had enough sleep for today, we’ve learned to look him in the eyes and accept the challenge. 

  Perhaps our annoyance is power as well. After so many years of WHAM! BAP! POW! I’ve grown bored of Pain’s games and learned to accept living with it. I went to university and got a degree regardless of Pain. I started making felted wool and crochet as my counter, and I’ve learned when to tap out and when to fight through. Maybe I dream of a life where things were different, but I’m thankful for what I’ve experienced in life regardless. When Pain is having one of his big-talk, big show moments, I leave the ring and let a new challenger combat him. Pain, this is CBD oil and his good friend Big-Hot Teapot. These are their neighbors, Courage, and Determination. In the last corner is Mr. Persistence and from the sidelines cheer Acceptance and Pride. Perhaps Pain no longer fancies his chances against such a large group, but if he’s going to cheat, then I will too.

~ Breanna Gehl

by Irene Roth, Blog Editor/Writer

Living with fibromyalgia can be a daily battle, filled with physical discomfort, emotional strain, and the frustration of limitations. However, just as the seasons change, so too can our mindset.

Spring, with its vivid symbolism of renewal, growth, and transformation, offers a powerful metaphor for those navigating chronic illness. By embracing the themes of spring, fibromates can cultivate hope, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose in their journey.

After the cold, dark months of winter, spring arrives as a breath of fresh air, bringing warmth, longer days, and the reawakening of life. In much the same way, hope can emerge from even the most difficult times. While fibromyalgia may feel overwhelming, spring reminds us that renewal is always possible.

Just as flowers bloom after lying dormant, you too can experience moments of renewal. Whether it’s through small lifestyle changes, new treatment approaches, or a shift in perspective, embracing the idea that positive change is always within reach can be incredibly empowering. Progress may be slow, just like the first buds of the season, but with patience and care, growth happens.

Spring teaches us that growth often follows struggle. The rain that nourishes the earth may seem inconvenient, but it is essential for the blossoming of new life. Similarly, challenges with fibromyalgia—pain, fatigue, and emotional ups and downs—can be stepping stones to personal growth.

Consider how difficulties have shaped you. Perhaps you’ve developed greater resilience, a deeper appreciation for the good days, or a newfound ability to listen to your body’s needs. Each challenge can be reframed as an opportunity to learn and grow, much like a tree strengthening its roots to withstand the storms of life.

With spring comes longer days and more sunlight, which can be a natural mood booster. Exposure to sunlight increases serotonin levels, which can help improve mood and energy—something many fibromates struggle with. Symbolically, spring invites you to step into the light, both physically and emotionally.

Finding joy in small victories can be a transformative practice. Celebrate the good moments, whether it’s a pain-free morning, the ability to enjoy a walk in nature, or the simple pleasure of feeling the sun on your skin. These seemingly small moments are like the first blooms of spring—tiny but significant signs of life and hope.

Just as trees shed old leaves and animals emerge from hibernation, spring is a season of letting go. This can be a time to release what no longer serves you—be it negative self-talk, unrealistic expectations, or the guilt of needing rest. By shedding these burdens, you create space for self-compassion and new beginnings.

Letting go also means embracing change. Perhaps it’s time to explore new self-care routines, connect with supportive communities, or set gentle, achievable goals. Change doesn’t have to be dramatic; even the smallest shifts can lead to a renewed sense of hope and motivation.

Spring is also a time for planting—both in the garden and in our own lives. Consider what seeds you want to plant for your future. This could be a commitment to prioritizing self-care, learning more about managing your symptoms, or setting boundaries that protect your well-being.

Remember, seeds take time to sprout. Be patient with yourself, knowing that the efforts you put in today—no matter how small—will eventually lead to growth. Trust in the process, just as a gardener trusts that their efforts will yield beauty in time.

Spring is a season of transformation, reminding us that hope is always within reach. For those living with fibromyalgia, its symbolism offers encouragement to embrace renewal, celebrate small victories, and trust in the gradual process of growth. By adopting the mindset of spring, you can navigate the challenges of fibromyalgia with resilience, hope, and a renewed sense of possibility.

No matter how long the winter, spring always follows. Let its lessons inspire you to move forward with hope, one day at a time.

By Irene Roth, Blog Editor, Book Reviewer

Like all of her books, this one is very organized and easy to reference later. She makes the steps in the guide so easy to understand and feel doable in real life. The examples are relatable and the advice is customizable. There are many prompts that will have you truly evaluating your lifestyle and inspire you to make changes that are important to you.

I really enjoy her writing because it’s easy to digest and at times, quite humorous. Everyone who is into minimizing, de-stressing, or just prioritizing their life could benefit from this book. I believe it’s a book that can change your life. I don’t say this often about a book. But I think this book merits that kind of compliment.

Shira Gill’s book provides a practical framework for a more intentional life. She presents tools and systems that are small, actionable prompts to help you create the life you want. The key takeaways for me are:

• It is never too late to start decluttering and organizing. Even a small amount can help us feel freer and less overwhelmed.
• Consistency is key. Small habit shifts can compound over time, resulting in progress.
• We must try to reframe our mindset. We should complain less and be more grateful for a happier and more fulfilled life.

This book is a refreshing combination of beauty, practicality, and lighthearted inspiration to up style your life. The tone is uplifting and fun, making it feel like a personal invitation to transform your life and environment without the stress. Every page sparks some new ideas, and it’s clear that the author put a lot of thought into making it approachable for everyone.

Plus, there are these beautiful personal therapy moments woven throughout—gentle reflections that allow you to not just organize your space, but also nurture your mind. It’s like the book is a little wellness retreat in printed form, offering both practical and emotional support for a harmonious home life.

If you’re looking for a home decor and organizing book that strikes the perfect balance between beauty, efficiency, and personal growth, this is it! Fibromates can also find this book useful as they will be inspired to start organizing and decluttering in as little as a few minutes a day. Since all our efforts add up, if we’re consistent, we’ll have a tidier and less cluttered living space in no time. It’s just the book for the spring season.