
A bunch of tulips signals springtime!
Day One of my 5 day Think Spring series is to bring a bunch of fresh, colorful tulips home to brighten the spirits. Wisconsin is in the midst of a cold-snowy-try-the-nerves bad weather period on top of an unseasonably cold spring to begin with. This is trying all our patience here in the Upper Midwest. After a long winter, we are so ready for warmth, sunshine and all the signs of spring. When they don’t show up, it is time to get creative and bring some home!
Since my rheumatoid arthritis (RA) diagnosis I have become tuned into the sensitivities of my mind and body. I have learned to do what I can to prevent little things blowing up into big things. My frame of mind is really important as I fashion the best quality of life I can with all the limitations a chronic disease like RA throws at me.
So ready for the winter to end, a few “mind games” if you will, is in order. Although we are getting dumped on with a lot of blowing snow, a simple bouquet of vibrant tulips remind me to hang in there for a few more days until spring, in all it’s glory, arrives. This simple bouquet brings a small slice of spring into my kitchen and it does lift my spirits.
Emotional and mental health are closely correlated with how well rheumatoid arthritis is managed. Depression and RA have a known connection. It makes sense. When a person is in pain, fatigued and unable to function normally, it is a challenge to do the day-to-day basics needed to just get by. According to the MayoClinic Health Library, rheumatoid arthritis and depression commonly occur together. Treating the depression helps to treat the rheumatoid arthritis. Knowing this, I pay attention to where I am mentally and emotionally. At least to the best of my ability. Self assessment can be tricky. But, the awareness of this connection between RA and depression is always in the back of my mind.
It would be lovely to go to the florist and enjoy being surrounded by the beautiful plants and blooms, but I often do not have the time or energy, so I am happy to grab a bouquet at the supermarket when I pick up groceries. The RA diagnosis has simplified my life by necessity. And that is a good thing!
I wish you a good Day One of Think Spring! Enjoy the fresh flowers and think on the sunny side! It’s good for your body! Take good care. I look forward to your visit tomorrow. Remember, this is using Arthritis Wisdom! What are your Think Spring suggestions? Please leave a comment below!
Hint for Day Two of Think Spring: Asparagus, a springtime harvest!
XXOO Cathy
Photo Credit: Annie Spratt of Unsplash