As I reflect on my own journey with migraine, I’ve come to realize that self-care is far more than just a luxurious treat. It’s an essential tool for living well – especially when you’re dealing with the unpredictable and debilitating effects of migraine.
I used to think of self-care as a one-size-fits-all approach, but as someone who lives with migraine, I know that’s not the case. For me, self-care needs to adapt to my ever-changing energy levels and physical state. That’s why I divide my self-care into three categories: preventive, acute, and rescue.
Preventive Self-Care: The Daily Grind
In a typical day, I focus on habits that help me feel my best – like taking a daily walk, spending time outside, eating nutritious food, and getting enough sleep. I also prioritize quality time with loved ones, whether it’s a phone call or an in-person visit.
Of course, life can get in the way, and some days I don’t succeed. But when I do manage to keep up with my preventive self-care, I feel the benefits – fewer migraine attacks, more energy, and a better overall sense of well-being.
Acute Self-Care: Riding Out the Storm
When I’m experiencing frequent migraine attacks or feeling overwhelmed by stress, I shift into acute self-care mode. This means being more intentional about listening to my body and giving it what it needs in that moment. That might mean:
* Taking a break from work or responsibilities
- Simplifying meals to reduce stress and discomfort
- Prioritizing rest and relaxation
- Adjusting exercise routines to accommodate my energy levels
Rescue Self-Care: Just Being
In the midst of an active migraine attack, I often find myself in rescue self-care mode. This is when I prioritize my well-being above all else – even if that means canceling plans or skipping responsibilities.
For me, this looks like:
* Creating a comfortable and calming environment
- Engaging in gentle activities, like crosswords or solitaire
- Indulging in comfort food and drinks
- Simply being present and allowing myself to be
The New Normal: Adapting Self-Care During Unprecedented Times
As we navigate this challenging period of social distancing, stress, grief, and anxiety, I’ve found that my self-care needs have changed. Instead of having a clear distinction between preventive, acute, and rescue self-care, I’m often blending these categories together.
Right now, my daily life feels like one big rescue self-care effort – trying to cope with the uncertainty and chaos while also taking care of myself. And you know what? That’s okay. It’s essential to acknowledge that nothing is normal right now, and our self-care strategies need to be flexible and adaptable.
Your Turn: Share Your Self-Care Strategies
How do you approach self-care when living with migraine? Do your strategies vary depending on whether you’re experiencing an attack or not? Please share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
