Embracing the Indoors in My Later Years
As I've gotten older and developed multiple sclerosis (MS), I've found myself spending more time comfortably relaxing inside my home. When I was younger, I loved being outdoors and soaking up the sunshine. But now in my younger days, heat sensitivity and mobility issues make indoor activities preferable.
Adapting My Lifestyle
Getting diagnosed with MS in my 30s meant making major adjustments to my previously active lifestyle. I could no longer hike for miles or jog around my neighborhood like I used to. At first, it was really hard giving up these outdoor passions that brought me so much joy.
Over time, though, I learned new hobbies better suited for indoor living. I took up cooking, reading more books, doing puzzles, and hosting game nights with friends. These quieter indoor pursuits provided intellectual stimulation and social connections.
Why I Avoid the Outdoors Now
Spending time outdoors comes with challenges that make me uncomfortable and exhausted these days. The heat and sun negatively impact my MS symptoms, draining my energy.
I experience nerve pain, numbness, and severe weakness when I get overheated. My cognition gets fuzzy, making it dangerous for me to drive or be out in public without assistance. Being housebound protects me from facing these scary symptoms.
Plus, my mobility has declined enough that walking and standing for long periods is difficult. I need my cane or walker to get around safely, and I tire easily. It's much less frustrating adapting my home for accessibility than constantly struggling in public.
Discovering New Indoor Hobbies
While I miss hiking through nature and feeling the sun on my skin, I've learned to appreciate more tranquil indoor activities better suited for my abilities now.
I enjoy reading memoirs and historical fiction novels while curled up on the couch with my cat. On nice days, I'll roll my wheelchair onto the back patio to read outside and get some fresh air. But I'm just as content reading inside, no longer dependent on outdoor adventures for happiness.
Jigsaw puzzles are another new hobby providing hours of quiet entertainment without leaving my house. And on social media, I bond with other "spoonies" in the chronic illness community about our shared experiences.
Peace in My Winter Years
While getting older and having MS have forced me into a more homebound lifestyle, I've made my peace with slower indoor living.
I decorate my house to be cozy and uplifting year-round. I'm learning new recipes to try in my kitchen. And technology helps me stay connected with loved ones through video calls. I may not be as adventurous outdoors as I once was, but in my winter years, I'm keeping my mind and body active indoors.
Tips for Making Indoor Living Enjoyable
If you also find yourself spending more time at home these days due to health issues, discover fresh ways to fill your hours happily indoors. These tips can help you adapt.
Connect with Community Online
Online support groups allow you to exchange encouragement and advice with others facing similar challenges. You'll realize you aren't alone, despite being housebound.
Display Cheery Dcor
Surround yourself with colors, textures, artwork, and objects bringing you joy. Candles and flowers liven rooms too. Uplifting home decor boosts moods.
Experiment with New Recipes
Cooking nourishing, tasty meals provides a fun, productive way to pass time at home. Try complicated recipes you've always wanted to master.
Take Up Indoor Hobbies
Keep your hands and mind active with hobbies like puzzles, crafting, playing instruments, journaling, photographing nature out the window, or learning online. Rotate through different hobbies to prevent boredom.
Finding Peace of Mind Indoors
At my stage of life with MS progressing, days filled with adventures exploring outside bring more discomfort than delight. Instead, I'm rediscovering simpler joys inside my little haven, crafting a space meeting my needs now.
While I'll always have fond memories hiking mountains and racing 5Ks in my younger years, this season calls for gentler indoor living. I'm listening to my body and spirit, adapting how I spend time as abilities change.
Letting go of my past active identity wasn't easy but learning new "spoonie" hobbies gives me a sense of purpose. And being kind to myself - resting as needed - ultimately grants the most contentment. I'm at peace puttering around my house filled with comforting creature comforts.
My limitations taught me to see beauty in the seemingly mundane - bird songs out my sunroom, baking bread's aroma, my cat's soothing purr. In stillness I now discover profound joys. By tweaking your home environment and schedule, indoor living can nurture your soul too during life's changing seasons. The key is opening your heart to receive this unexpected grace.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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