Living with fibromyalgia means every day begins with how my body feels. There are no pain-free days — only medium pain days and high pain days — so I’ve learned to move slowly, gently and with intention.
This is what an ordinary day looks like for me.
Restless Nights
Sleep is never deep or peaceful. Pain wakes me many times through the night — in my hips, knees, back, shoulders and neck. I shift and turn constantly, looking for a position that doesn’t hurt.
By the time morning comes, I’m usually exhausted.
Waking in Pain
My alarm goes off at 7am.
I’m stiff, but more than that, I’m usually in agony. Every joint and muscle protests the idea of moving. So I don’t — not straight away.
I reach for the remote and switch on the diesel heater. It takes the edge off the cold and gives my body time to warm up before I get out of bed. And sometimes I will have to take my pills again.
Only around 8.30–9am do I finally rise.
Starting Slowly
The morning begins with the animals.
I feed the cats and Dory, my dog. She is always happy to see me, tail wagging, eyes bright. Her presence grounds me.
Then I make a coffee and sit quietly. I don’t rush. I sip slowly, letting warmth soften the pain. I use this time to journal my thoughts and feelings. This gentle beginning sets the tone for the day.
Listening to My Body
What I do next depends entirely on pain levels.
If I’m in a medium pain day, I might:
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do some work online
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write
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edit video
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answer messages
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or work on the lorry build
If it’s a high pain day, I stay indoors, do less, rest more.
I’ve learned that pushing through pain doesn’t work. If I don’t pace myself, I pay for it over the next few days.
Eating Well
Breakfast is late — usually 10.30–11am — and almost always cooked.
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sausages and eggs
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a sausage sandwich
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or something warm and satisfying
Lunch is optional and only if I’m hungry, usually around 2–3pm.
Dinner is around 6pm — simple food, comfort food, something hot.
Resting Regularly
Fibromyalgia demands rest. Not just once a day, but regularly.
If I stand too long or walk too far, pain floods in. I’ve learned to stop before I reach that point. Resting isn’t laziness — it’s survival.
Evenings Are Quiet
Evenings are my favourite time.
Dory usually curls up on my lap — she’s my emotional support, my little heartbeat. The cats find warm spots near the log burner or on my bed as it is always warm up there
The lorry feels safe and cosy.
I read, watch a DVD, or simply enjoy the quiet. Pain softens a little with warmth and stillness.
I’m usually in bed early, resting my body for the night ahead.
Living Slowly, With Care
A day in my body is not fast and it’s not easy. But it has become gentle.
Fibromyalgia has changed the way I live, but not the way I see the world. There is beauty in slow mornings, warm blankets, cooked breakfasts, quiet nights with animals, and the small victories each day brings.
This life is lived in careful steps — but it is still a good life.
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