Ever felt your heart race, hands shake and a sense of shame wash over you during an anxiety attack? Our guest, Brian, bravely takes us through his personal journey, beginning with his first encounter with a panic attack on a date at 17. Brian's story underscores the importance of sharing personal experiences and having an open discourse about mental health.

As we journey further, we’ll discover how we can identify our own anxiety triggers and take control of these situations. From a holistic approach to life, to the transformative power of mantras and the practice of mindfulness, Brian offers an abundance of strategies to fit diverse individual needs. We'll also discuss the significant role of relaxation techniques and how something as simple as sipping chamomile tea can be a game changer.

But, it’s not an easy or quick fix. Brian emphasizes realistic expectations when dealing with anxiety and depression. He reminds us that healing is a process, and it's okay if it doesn't happen overnight. So, join us for a conversation that's as compassionate as it is enlightening, filled with personal experiences, practical insights, and a strong message of hope for those grappling with mental health struggles. Let’s foster understanding, inspire change, and shatter the stigma surrounding mental health, one chat at a time.


https://linktr.ee/getoutofyourhead?fbclid=PAAabA-Kcq7-rp0xMzclmCZeepn5U7awVNBo5qEzqZdC27KeQHfGTShwhesVM_aem_Aa5_67-aS-yp5Pb1d6y27tqfsh8ix9qhSwtqqkt95Clr_rkirJg58j6NzvOrWB-c2vs

https://www.amazon.com/Get-Out-Your-Head-Vol-ebook/dp/B09KQ4FLBW?nodl=1&dplnkId=f1c2c67c-4357-4904-8ae8-aaf960040bcd

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Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

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🎙 Living with a rare disease or chronic illness can feel isolating—but you are not alone. Find Your Rare is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. From empowering apparel to real, raw conversations, they’re here to remind you that your story matters. Because being RARE its your superpower. Explore, join & wear your rare with pride at FindYourRare.com

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Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Feeling the holiday pressure? Can't seem to find that festive joy amidst the chronic illness challenges? Hold on to your spoons, my wonderful warriors, because this Wow This Podcast episode is a heartfelt guide to finding joy in the holiday season irrespective of your physical constraints. I, Gracefully Jen, your ever-enthusiastic host, am here to take you through seven simple yet effective strategies to unapologetically prioritize your well-being and embrace the holiday spirit on your own terms. 

We're going to talk about embracing simple traditions that resonate, setting realistic expectations, and understanding the power of virtual connections. Let's not forget the importance of self-care amidst the holiday hustle and why it's okay to celebrate in your own time. Together we'll explore the idea of a gratitude journal and how to adapt traditional holiday activities to your abilities. And remember, the joy is in the experience, not perfection. As we wrap up, our podcast family extends a wish for a joyful and peaceful holiday season. So, tune in, be inspired, and remember, don't you dare forget your spoon!

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https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
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https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Wake up and smell the authenticity! Your host, Gracefully Jen, is getting personal and sharing her insights on why being true to oneself is essential, especially for those battling chronic illness. She's putting a spotlight on how chronic conditions can often blur our identities, and she's here to remind us of the power of authenticity - a tool that deepens connections, empowers through vulnerability, and inspires a positive mindset. 

You'll hear Jen's take on embracing individuality and the freedom it brings to not just accept but celebrate each spoonie is unique journey. Relish in her wisdom as she highlights the importance of self-care for maintaining mental and emotional health and how being true to oneself lays the foundation for prioritizing joy and fulfillment. So, spoonie sisters, get ready to feel empowered, embrace your uniqueness, and harness the power of your voice and story in the chronic illness community. Remember, your spoon is your emblem of strength!

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https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

How does one maintain an active lifestyle while battling osteoarthritis? Robin Robertson, a seasoned advocate for the Arthritis Foundation, shares her inspiring journey from a rare knee condition at birth, numerous surgeries, and an ultimate halt to all impact sports at 24 to leading a vibrant life despite her limitations. It's not simply a tale of resilience and courage but an exploration of alternative forms of exercise that can help maintain a healthy lifestyle while dealing with osteoarthritis.

As a coach and author of the 'Healthy Knees book series, Robin walks us through the nuts and bolts of osteoarthritis care in knees, hips, and feet, extolling the virtues of strength training and cycling. It's a fascinating look into her journey to become a 'Healthy Knees' coach, driven by her own experience with knee issues. Robin's mantra, "rest is rust" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of movement and proper exercise for joint health.

Hear the story of the fear, the despair, and the monumental shift in lifestyle after a diagnosis of osteoarthritis. But also hear the hope, the resilience, and the adaptability that leads to strength training and a cycling adventure across America. Discover how we’ve refused to let arthritis limit our lives and find inspiration in the pursuit of a path that's right for you. Dive into our conversation about knee health, managing knee pain, and the upcoming Jingle Bell Run. Tune in, listen, learn, and be inspired by the relentless pursuit of life despite the challenges.

Healthy Knees Books: https://www.healthykneescoach.com/Shop   

Healthy Knees for You (YouTube): https://www.youtube.com/@healthykneesforyou

Healthy Knees Coach: https://healthykneescoach.com/

Ride Across America Coast to Coast (Travel Journal): https://www.healthykneescoach.com/C2CList

Healthy Knees News email signup (and get the “Save Your Knees” Cheatsheet!): https://www.healthykneescoach.com/save-your-knees-cheatsheet

Bellingham Training & Tennis Club (information about the Healthy Knees Strength & Cycle program):

Send us a text

Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

🎙 Living with a rare disease or chronic illness can feel isolating—but you are not alone. Find Your Rare is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. From empowering apparel to real, raw conversations, they’re here to remind you that your story matters. Because being RARE its your superpower. Explore, join & wear your rare with pride at FindYourRare.com

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

You may face each day battling a chronic illness, but do you truly realize your immense strength, resilience and worth while doing so? Welcome to another episode where I, Gracefully Jen, acknowledge your daily struggles and take you through seven significant reminders that underscore your inherent worth and uniqueness. We'll explore the unique journey you're undertaking, your significant contributions to a community that understands what it's like living with chronic illnesses, and how every little effort you make is a testament to your strength.

Don't underestimate the power of self-compassion! As you navigate through the turbulence of invisible diseases, it's crucial to be kind to yourself. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can, your worth isn't defined by your productivity. You are making a difference, inspiring others with your courage and authenticity. Remember, your journey is unique, you are resilient, and every small effort matters. So, warriors, listen in, embrace your worthiness and continue to inspire. And yes, don't forget your spoon!

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Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Today's conversation promises to provide solace, strategies, and a beacon of hope for all those grappling with a chronic illness that confounds the medical world. I, Gracefully Jen, assure you that navigating this web of complexity is not a journey you have to walk alone. I'll be your guide, offering wisdom on advocating for yourself, building robust support networks, seeking varied opinions, empowering yourself with knowledge, prioritizing mental health, staying abreast of medical advancements, and cherishing small victories. 

In this heart-to-heart, we discuss the potential of maintaining a detailed health journal, the magic of online communities, and the significance of staying informed about your condition. We emphasize the indispensability of mental health care and the transformative power of openness to medical possibilities. The celebration of small victories along this journey is not only encouraged but also regarded as crucial to personal growth. Remember, you're not just a medical mystery, you're a person with strength, resilience, and a community that supports you through all the uncertainties. Tune in and let us journey together.

Send us a text

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Imagine finding yourself in a whirlwind of chronic pain and being told by the medical world to just lose weight and follow a keto diet. Picture the emotional turmoil that comes with such advice and the relief of finally finding a medical professional who listens. This is the narrative of our guest, Kayla, a brave individual who faced chronic conditions head-on. Her journey from diagnosis, mental health struggles, the empowerment of finding the right medical team, to finally being diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis, is nothing short of inspiring. The resilience and determination she displayed in the face of prognosis will inspire listeners who might be in a similar situation or simply need a story of triumph against adversity.

With her unique toolkit of coping strategies for managing chronic pain, Kayla offers listeners a wealth of practical tips, from the utilitarian—like ice packs and ergonomic keyboards—to the emotional—such as building a supportive network and harnessing the power of faith and social media. Kayla underlines the necessity of self-care, drawing strength from devotional readings, prayer, and inspiring individuals who candidly share their own journeys. As a writer, she brings a fresh perspective on the themes of ability and disability and how they shape one's sense of self. Join us for a tale of hope, resilience, and the power of community in the face of chronic pain. This episode promises to stir, educate, and empower.

Links:

• Website/Blog: https://theunicornwriter.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunicornwriter93 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theunicornwriter 
• Newsletter: https://bit.ly/theunicornwritersnewsletter 
• Find Aivan: The One Truth on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3nFEBB5
• Find Metamorphosis on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LIqoLN
• Hope Amid the Pain devotional journal on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3SCtNkp
• Hope Amid the Pain Facebook support group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hopeamidthepain/ 
• Follow Daphne Self on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authordaphneself 

Send us a text

Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

As we journey together through the challenges of chronic illness, there's a recurring phrase that rings oh-so-very true — it's okay not to be okay. You've probably heard me chant this mantra on Instagram; in this empowering podcast, I bring the same spirit to uplift my beautiful Spoonie Sisters, who battle daily with various ailments. I speak candidly about the pain, the fatigue, and the emotional toll that comes with chronic illness. However, I also emphasize that your experiences are valid, your feelings hold importance, and it's perfectly okay to acknowledge that some days are harder than others.

The secret weapon here is self-care and I'm not talking about the occasional bubble bath or chocolate treat. I'm talking about serious, intentional self-care that forms a crucial part of managing your overall well-being. It's far from being selfish; it's about giving yourself permission to rest, recharge, and put your health above all else. So, grab a cup of something warm, find your coziest blanket, and join me as we explore what living with chronic illness truly means and how you can navigate it without losing yourself. And before we wrap up, remember, don't forget your spoon.

Send us a text

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Imagine waking up to find your body in a revolt against the change in weather. Sounds crazy, right? Yet, it's a reality that we've grappled with, alongside life's unexpected roller-coaster rides and the influence of modern fashion trends. This episode is an honest, heartfelt conversation about dealing with chronic illnesses, adapting to medication, finding the right doctor, and even coping with the stress that positive changes can bring. 

Buckle in as we share some laugh-out-loud moments discussing the world of hats and the pressure to be stylish even when our bodies are in a flare. We've got some invaluable insights to share about the power of self-care, rest, and the underrated role of sleep in managing chronic illnesses. Most importantly, we address how to turn life's challenges into opportunities and find support during testing times. So sit back, relax and tune in for an episode filled with candid advice, laughter, and shared experiences.

https://www.instagram.com/perfectlyimperfectlinnea/#

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Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off

Have you ever wondered about the battles that those living with autoimmune diseases face every day? Join us as we listen to the compelling journey of Joshua, a retired army veteran who faced this reality when he was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune conditions - Myasthenia Gravis, Small Fiber Neuropathy, and Hashimoto's. Joshua offers a unique perspective on battling these conditions, from chronic fatigue and muscle spasms to debilitating migraines.

We follow Joshua as he navigates the challenging medical world, advocating for himself in the quest for a proper diagnosis. His story is a testament to resilience, as he battles chronic pain, the inability to exercise without needing multiple days of recovery, and the constant adaptation to a new reality of health. Joshua underscores the life-changing role his wife played in supporting him during these difficult times. He also offers intriguing insights into how weather changes affect his conditions and unveils helpful management strategies like regular chiropractor visits, journaling, and breathing exercises.

In the heart of our discussion, Joshua sheds light on his journey of being medically separated from the army due to his health issues, emphasizing the importance of finding a community for support and connection. He generously shares valuable resources for those dealing with autoimmune diseases, such as Military Disability Made Easy and Myasthenia Foundation of America. His story is a remarkable display of the human capacity to find positivity amidst life's biggest challenges. We invite you to join us and be inspired by Joshua's journey, and maybe even glean some insights for your own.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-thompson-veteran/

https://militarydisabilitymadeeasy.com/

https://myasthenia.org/About-Us

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Are you living with a chronic illness and want to make your voice heard? Rare Patient Voice connects patients and caregivers with research opportunities—so you can share your experiences and get paid for your time! Your insights help drive real change in healthcare.

Let's Get Started - Rare Patient Voice

🎙 Living with a rare disease or chronic illness can feel isolating—but you are not alone. Find Your Rare is more than just a brand—it’s a movement. From empowering apparel to real, raw conversations, they’re here to remind you that your story matters. Because being RARE its your superpower. Explore, join & wear your rare with pride at FindYourRare.com

Support the show

Support:
https://rarepatientvoice.com/Myspooniesisters/
https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySpoonieSisters
https://www.graceandable.com/?bg_ref=980:nzTyG6c9zK (Use code GAJen10)

Website:
https://myspooniesisters.com/

Discount Codes:

GIANT Microbes | Gag Gifts, Teacher Gifts, Doctor Gifts, Gifts for Girlfriends and Boyfriends code SPOONIE20 for 20% off