Illness doesn’t just impact your body—it shakes your rhythm, your confidence, your daily flow. I had a half-colectomy. Then, flare-ups of fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis followed. Even simple routines like morning coffee or brushing my hair felt monumental. But rebuilding a routine—on my terms—became one of the most healing acts of self-love I’ve ever embraced.
🌞 1. Start Soft, Not Strong
Forget “go big or go home.” When you’re recovering physically or emotionally, the best routines start with softness. A gentle stretch in bed. Five slow breaths. A glass of warm lemon water. These tiny rituals are like seeds—small, but full of potential.
🗂️ 2. Use Anchor Moments
Anchor your day with fixed moments you can build around, like:
- Morning medication
- Afternoon tea
- Evening skincare
Even if everything else changes, these anchors keep your day from drifting.
✍️ 3. Let Go of “Perfect”
On the hard days (and they will come), your routine will look different. That’s okay. Progress doesn’t always look like onward motion—it often looks like rest, or simply choosing one nourishing thing. Watching my favourite show or listening to soothing tunes are my preferred choices for downtime.
📋 4. Keep a “Grace List”
This is a list of 3-5 simple, soul-lifting things you can do when everything feels overwhelming. Mine includes:
- Listening to a comforting podcast
- Laying under a heated blanket
- Watching the clouds for five minutes
It’s not about being productive—it’s about being present.
💡 5. Celebrate Tiny Wins
Made your bed? That’s a win. Did you wash your hair today? Another win. Routines after illness aren’t about hustle—they’re about healing. Each tiny act is a declaration: I’m still here. I’m still trying.
💖 Final Thoughts
Reclaiming your routine after illness isn’t about recreating who you were. It’s about honouring who you are now. Let each gentle habit whisper to you: You are worthy of care, even when life is messy. Especially then!. 🌞
Aimée
Fiftyandmore 
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