chronic-illness – Sara's Writing Sanctuary

For a long time, I believed creativity looked one very specific way.

It was long writing sessions, daily word counts, consistent output, and momentum that never seemed to stall. Creativity, I thought, thrived on discipline and stamina. The more you pushed, the more you produced. The more you showed up, the more you succeeded.

Chronic illness gently—and sometimes painfully—unwrote that belief.

Living with chronic illness didn’t take creativity away from me.
It changed it.
It softened it.
It made it truer.

Here’s what it taught me.

Creativity Is Not a Performance

When your body has limits, you learn very quickly that you can’t perform creativity on demand.

There are days when the ideas are there, but the energy isn’t. Days when your mind wants to explore, but your body needs stillness. Chronic illness removes the illusion that creativity must always be visible, productive, or impressive to be valid.

Some of my most meaningful creative moments happen quietly:

A sentence written and saved for later
A scene imagined but not drafted
A character developed in thought while resting

Creativity doesn’t disappear when you stop producing.
It continues beneath the surface.

Rest Is Part of the Creative Process

This was one of the hardest lessons to learn.

Before chronic illness, rest felt like a break from creativity. Something that delayed progress or slowed momentum. But when your body demands rest, you begin to see it differently.

Rest becomes:

Incubation
Integration
Recovery

Some ideas only arrive when the nervous system feels safe enough to let them surface. Some stories need quiet before they’re ready to speak.

Rest isn’t the opposite of creativity.
It’s often the doorway into it.

Small Creative Acts Matter

Chronic illness teaches you to stop measuring creativity by scale.

Not every creative act needs to be big to be meaningful. Writing for five minutes counts. Editing a paragraph counts. Thinking deeply about a story while lying down counts.

Some days, creativity looks like:

Renaming a character
Rereading an old paragraph with compassion
Making notes instead of drafting

Small acts keep the connection alive. They remind you that you are still a creator—even on the days your capacity is limited.

Creativity Becomes More Honest

Pain, fatigue, grief, frustration—these things change how you see the world. Chronic illness strips away the pressure to be constantly upbeat, polished, or inspirational.

Your creativity becomes more honest because you become more honest.

You stop writing to impress.
You start writing to understand.
You create because it helps you process, survive, and breathe.

Creativity stops being about output and starts being about truth.

You Learn to Create With Your Body, Not Against It

One of the quiet gifts of chronic illness is learning to listen.

You begin to notice:

When your mind is sharp but your body needs rest
When short bursts work better than long sessions
When creativity flows best at unexpected times

Instead of forcing creativity into rigid routines, you learn to adapt it around your energy, pain levels, and emotional bandwidth.

Creativity becomes flexible.
Gentler.
More sustainable.

You Are Still Creative—Even When You’re Not Creating

This is the lesson I return to again and again.

Chronic illness can make you feel disconnected from your identity, especially if creativity is a core part of who you are. But your worth as a creative person is not measured by productivity.

You are creative when you:

Imagine
Reflect
Observe
Feel deeply

Even on the days you do nothing outwardly creative, the inner world is still alive.

A Gentle Reminder for Other Chronically Ill Creators

If you’re navigating creativity alongside chronic illness, know this:

You are not failing.
You are not behind.
You are not broken.

You are adapting.

Creativity doesn’t disappear because your body needs care. It simply changes shape—and sometimes, that new shape is quieter, deeper, and more meaningful than what came before.

Your creativity is still yours.
Even on the slow days.
Especially on the slow days.

Happy Writing ^_^

health, June 2025, Self Care, writing-tips

How I Slow Down at Month’s End to Avoid Burnout

June 29, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

(Especially for Neurodivergent or Chronic Illness Writers)

The end of the month can feel like a deadline in itself: wrapping up goals, meeting commitments, planning ahead. For neurodivergent or chronically ill writers, that pressure can hit even harder. If you’re like me, you might find yourself pushing too hard, then crashing right as you’re supposed to start fresh.

Over time, I’ve learned that I don’t have to sprint to the finish line every month. Instead, I’ve created a gentle, sustainable way to slow down at month’s end to avoid burnout—and to start the new month with more clarity, creativity, and energy.

Here’s what that looks like for me:

1. I Embrace a “Soft Landing” Week

Instead of trying to do all the things in the final days, I give myself permission to wind down.

In fact, I often take the last few weeks of every month off from writing. Right now, I work in the health industry, and the last five days are always the busiest at work. On top of that, I’ve been finishing my second-to-last term in college, which has taken a lot of focus and energy.

This combination means I need a real break. I don’t expect myself to keep writing or pushing creatively during that time. I block off my planner to rest, do minimal tasks, and remind myself that stepping back is healthy and necessary.

2. I Check in With My Body (Not Just My Goals)

As a chronically ill writer, I’ve learned that ignoring my body’s signals only backfires. So instead of focusing on unfinished goals, I ask:

How’s my pain, fatigue, or brain fog right now?
What do I realistically have the energy for today?
What would help me feel safe and calm?

Sometimes that means moving a deadline. Other times it’s taking a nap, reading something soothing, or just giving myself permission to stop.

3. I Reflect Gently, Not Critically

I used to audit my goals harshly at month’s end (“Why didn’t I finish everything?!”). But now, I aim for kind, gentle reflection.

What went well this month?
What was especially hard or surprising?
How did my health, work, or school demands affect my energy?
What needs more support next month?

This approach helps me see the real picture without self-blame. It acknowledges that needing rest—especially with chronic health issues—is human.

4. I Prioritize Rituals That Help Me Transition

Even though I take time off writing, I like having small, meaningful ways to close one month and start another:

Clearing my desk or work space.
Lighting a candle or making a cup of herbal tea.
Journaling about what I want to leave behind.
Reviewing my planner and gently sketching next month’s focus.

These simple rituals help me shift gears and honor the need for pause.

**5. I Schedule Rest Before the Next Push**

I know the first few days of the next month are often when I’m recovering from work’s end-of-month rush. So I intentionally block “recovery days” at the start of the new month:

No big deadlines or writing goals.
Lower word-count targets if I’m drafting.
Creative play or reading instead of forced productivity.

This planned rest makes the transition sustainable, so I’m not burning out right away.

6. I Give Myself Permission to Do Less

This is the hardest but most important part. For neurodivergent and chronically ill writers, energy isn’t infinite. Doing less isn’t failure—it’s wisdom.

If my body or brain says “stop,” I try to listen. I remind myself:

“Rest is part of writing. Recovery is productive.”

7. Looking Ahead

I’m excited to share that I’ll be completing my degree at the end of August! I’ll be graduating with a Bachelor’s in English and Creative Writing with a concentration in Fiction from SNHU. It’s something I’ve been working so hard toward, and I’m really looking forward to the freedom it will give me to focus more on my blog and business ideas for all the writers and readers who follow me here.

Needing a break—especially when you’re balancing health issues, work, and school—is not only normal but necessary. I want this space to be a gentle reminder that you don’t have to do everything at once.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a writer managing chronic illness, neurodivergence, or both, I hope this resonates. You don’t have to follow a hustle-culture model of productivity. You can honor your own cycles and limits.

Slowing down at month’s end isn’t laziness. It’s self-care. It’s what keeps us writing for the long haul.

How do you slow down at the end of the month? What helps you avoid burnout?

I’d love to hear in the comments!

Happy Writing ^_^

April 2025, health

Why Support Matters When Writing with Chronic Illness

April 5, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Living with chronic illness isn’t just about managing symptoms—it’s about holding onto who you are when your body tries to pull you in another direction. For writers like me, that means trying to stay connected to creativity even on the days when pain, fatigue, or brain fog make everything feel impossible.

I’ve been dealing with a lot of health issues that have deeply affected not just my body, but also my mental health. It’s hard to feel motivated or inspired when you’re overwhelmed by what your body is going through. Some days, just getting through the basics takes everything I’ve got. And yet, writing continues to call to me—because it’s more than a passion, it’s a lifeline.

What has kept me going, even during my hardest moments, is support.

For me, that support often looks like two furry faces and four paws each. My two dogs remind me daily that I’m not alone. They sit with me during the pain, nudge me when I’ve been at my desk too long, and offer silent comfort when words fail. Their love and presence ground me in ways nothing else can.

But beyond them, this blog has become a huge part of my support system too. Writing here has connected me to people who get it—who understand how hard it is to balance health, life, and creativity. I’ve met others who write through their own chronic struggles, and it’s reminded me that I’m not the only one fighting to hold onto my voice.

Support—whether it’s a person, a pet, a kind comment, or a creative community—matters more than I can say. It helps keep your spirit high. And when you’re writing through chronic illness, your spirit is everything. It’s what keeps you showing up to the page, even when everything hurts.

So if you’re reading this and struggling, please know: you’re not alone. Your story matters. Your pace is enough. And whatever form support takes in your life—lean into it. Let it lift you. Let it remind you that you’re still a writer, even on the days you can’t write.

Happy Writing ^_^

health, Holistic Health, March 2025, writing-tips

Incorporating Holistic Health Practices Into Your Writing Life

March 30, 2025May 13, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

As writers, we often find ourselves in the thick of deadlines, creativity struggles, and the pressures of managing both our personal and professional lives. For many of us, creativity can ebb and flow, and when it does, it can feel like a battle. But what if there were tools—tools that not only support your physical and emotional well-being but also nurture your creativity? Incorporating holistic health practices like meditation, energy work, and herbalism into your writing routine can make a world of difference, especially when managing chronic illness and pain.

The Power of Meditation: Clearing the Mind for Creativity

Meditation is one of the simplest yet most powerful practices you can introduce to your life as a writer. It is a way of calming the mind, reducing stress, and creating space for creativity to flow. By taking just a few minutes each day to meditate, you can find clarity, cultivate mindfulness, and refocus your energy.

For those with chronic pain or illness, meditation is particularly beneficial. The act of quieting your mind helps reduce stress, which in turn can lower pain levels and ease the mental strain that often accompanies chronic health conditions. Mindfulness meditation can also help manage anxiety and depression, both of which are common in people living with chronic illness. Regular practice can train your mind to stay focused, even during difficult times, making it easier to return to your writing with a fresh perspective.

Energy Work: Healing Through Intentional Practice

Energy work, including practices like Reiki, chakra balancing, and grounding exercises, can be incredibly beneficial for writers who want to connect more deeply with their creativity while nurturing their physical and emotional health. These practices focus on clearing blocked energy and restoring balance to the body and mind, which can make space for creative ideas to flourish.

For writers managing chronic pain or illness, energy work can provide relief in subtle yet powerful ways. Reiki, for instance, is a healing modality that works with the body’s energy system, promoting relaxation and helping to ease the discomfort caused by chronic conditions. Grounding exercises—such as walking barefoot on the earth or focusing on your breath—can help reduce feelings of fatigue, anxiety, or overwhelm, creating a calming environment for your writing to thrive.

Energy work also encourages a deeper connection with your body, which can be empowering for those dealing with the physical challenges of chronic illness. Understanding your energy and practicing balance can provide a sense of control and empowerment, which translates into your creative process as well.

Herbalism: Nourishing Your Body and Mind

Herbalism is a wonderful way to complement your holistic health practices, especially when dealing with the stress of writing and the physical demands of managing chronic health issues. Certain herbs can promote relaxation, alleviate pain, or boost your mental clarity, all of which are important for a writer’s creative flow.

For chronic illness or pain, herbs like ginger, turmeric, and willow bark can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. Adaptogens such as ashwagandha and Rhodiola are known for their ability to help the body cope with stress, balance hormones, and increase energy levels. A cup of chamomile tea or lavender essential oil can help calm anxiety and promote restful sleep, ensuring you wake up feeling rejuvenated and ready to write.

Herbalism also has a long history of supporting emotional health. Herbs like lemon balm, passionflower, and valerian root are known for their calming effects, which can be particularly helpful when chronic illness or pain leads to emotional strain or fatigue. By incorporating these plants into your routine, you can create a more balanced, nurturing environment for both your mind and body, enhancing your creative process.

Writing and Chronic Illness: A Holistic Approach to Health and Creativity

Managing chronic illness or chronic pain is no easy feat, and it can often feel like an ongoing battle. However, embracing holistic practices can not only improve your quality of life but also support your writing career in ways you may not have expected. Meditation, energy work, and herbalism are just a few tools that can make a tangible difference, helping you cope with physical pain, emotional stress, and creative blocks.

The key is to find what works best for you and to listen to your body. When you’re in tune with your needs—whether it’s through a calming meditation session, a healing energy practice, or a soothing cup of herbal tea—you’re more likely to approach your writing with renewed inspiration, creativity, and resilience. And that’s a gift not just to your creative life but to your overall well-being.

If you’re living with chronic illness or pain, I encourage you to experiment with these practices and see how they support you. They’re not a cure-all, but they offer a compassionate approach to living with illness while fostering your creative spirit. After all, as writers, we are not just creators of stories—we are creators of our own journeys, embracing each step with mindful presence, healing, and creativity.

This holistic approach to writing offers both physical and mental support, promoting a balanced life that nurtures creativity and well-being. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you’re not only enhancing your craft but taking charge of your health and your life as a writer.

Happy Writing ^_^

March 2025, Writing Challenges, writing-tips

When Inspiration Strikes but Pain Holds You Back

March 20, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

As writers, we live for those moments when inspiration hits—when the words flow effortlessly in our minds, characters come alive, and stories beg to be told. But for those of us who deal with chronic pain, that creative fire can feel like a cruel tease. The ideas are there, vibrant and waiting, yet our bodies refuse to cooperate.

I know this struggle all too well. Writing through physical pain is not just about pushing through discomfort—it’s about navigating exhaustion, brain fog, and the frustration of knowing that your body can’t keep up with your creative mind. It’s about balancing self-care with the need to express yourself.

The Frustration of Wanting to Write but Not Being Able

Some days, I wake up with a head full of scenes and dialogue, ready to pour onto the page. But before I can even start, pain creeps in—stiff joints, aching muscles, or that all-too-familiar fatigue that makes even sitting at my desk feel like a battle.

Writing is already a mental challenge, but when pain takes over, it becomes a physical one too. The focus that normally fuels creativity is diverted to managing discomfort, making it difficult to string words together in a way that makes sense.

Finding a Way to Write Through the Pain

Even though chronic pain makes writing harder, I refuse to let it silence my creativity. Over time, I’ve found ways to work with my body instead of against it:

Adjusting My Writing Setup – An ergonomic chair, a wrist rest, or even dictation software can make a huge difference. Writing on my phone while lying down or using a voice-to-text tool lets me capture ideas when sitting at a desk isn’t an option.
Setting Small Goals – On bad days, I might only write a few sentences. And that’s okay. Every word counts. Breaking tasks into manageable chunks helps me avoid burnout.
Listening to My Body – Some days, pushing through the pain only leads to more exhaustion later. Learning when to rest and when to write is an ongoing process, but I’ve realized that forcing productivity doesn’t always lead to better writing.
Using Mindfulness and Movement – Gentle stretches, deep breathing, or even stepping outside for fresh air can help reset my focus. Sometimes, a short walk or a warm cup of tea is enough to bring me back to the page.
Allowing Myself Grace – This is the hardest one. The frustration of not writing as much as I want to can lead to guilt, but I remind myself that creativity isn’t just about word count—it’s about the process, the ideas, and the passion behind them.

Embracing the Slow Process

Writing with chronic pain means adjusting expectations. It means accepting that some days will be better than others. But it also means recognizing the strength it takes to keep going, even when progress feels slow.

If you’re struggling with pain while writing, know that you’re not alone. Your words still matter, even if they take longer to get onto the page. Creativity isn’t a race—it’s a journey. And whether you write a little or a lot, every step forward is worth celebrating.

Do you struggle with writing through pain? What helps you push through? Let’s support each other in the comments.

Happy Writing ^_^

March 2025

March Journal Prompts for Writers with Chronic Illness: Finding Creativity and Healing Through Writing

March 11, 2025March 10, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Living with chronic illness can be an overwhelming experience, affecting both your body and mind. As a writer, it may feel frustrating when pain, fatigue, or brain fog make creativity difficult. However, journaling can be a powerful tool for navigating these challenges. Not only does it offer a therapeutic outlet for emotions, but it also helps keep your creative spark alive, even on tough days.

Below are journal prompts designed to support both your writing and well-being. These prompts encourage reflection, self-expression, and storytelling, helping you embrace both your creative journey and your experience with chronic illness.

Journaling for Self-Reflection and Emotional Healing

How does my chronic illness shape my daily life, and how can I show myself more compassion?
Write a letter to your body—thanking it, forgiving it, or simply acknowledging it.
What are three small victories I’ve had despite my chronic illness?
Describe a day when you felt strong and accomplished. What made it special?
What does self-care mean to me, and how can I incorporate more of it into my routine?

Creative Writing Prompts Inspired by Chronic Illness

Write about a character who discovers an unexpected superpower due to a health condition.
Imagine your pain or fatigue as a character. Describe their personality, appearance, and how they interact with you.
Rewrite a day from your life as if it were happening in a fantasy or sci-fi world. How does your chronic illness manifest in this new setting?
Create a poem that captures the contrast between a good health day and a difficult one.
Write a story where the main character’s biggest strength comes from their ability to adapt to adversity.

Prompts to Stay Motivated as a Writer with Chronic Illness

What drew me to writing, and how has it supported me through difficult times?
Describe a writing routine that fits my energy levels and needs.
Write about a fictional mentor who helps you navigate your writing journey despite challenges.
What are three things I can do to be kinder to myself on low-energy days?
Imagine a future where you’ve finished your dream writing project. How does it feel? What did you overcome to get there?

Using Journaling as a Healing Practice

Journaling is more than just a way to document experiences—it’s a tool for emotional release, self-discovery, and creativity. Whether you use these prompts for self-reflection or to generate new story ideas, they can help you stay connected to your writing while honoring your body’s needs.

Have you tried journaling to support your writing and well-being? Let me know in the comments or share your favorite prompts that have helped you.

Happy Writing ^_^

About Myself, February 2025

Writing Through Chronic Illness – Balancing Health and Creativity

February 2, 2025July 27, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Writing through chronic illness isn’t easy. I live with chronic pain and other long-term conditions caused by trauma and prolonged stress from events in my twenties. I don’t share this for pity but to show that even in the hardest times, some things can still bring joy.

For years, I struggled to be believed—by both family and doctors—about what I knew was wrong with my body. Eventually, I found the help I needed and learned how to live with my illness. While I still have bad days, I do my best to make time for the things I love. Unfortunately, writing isn’t something I can do every day, but I’m always thinking about stories and planning how they will unfold.

When I’m not able to write, I try to read. I’m working toward getting a new Kindle so I can get back to reading more books. I usually listen to audiobooks while working, but I think it’s time to go back to reading and allowing myself a break from my phone, free from the distractions of social media and other apps. Growing up, long before e-readers existed, I always had a paperback book or two with me. Even now, I carry a notebook wherever I go, just in case inspiration strikes. I don’t use my phone for notes—I guess I’m a bit old-fashioned when it comes to jotting down ideas. However, most of my stories are written on the computer, with my handwritten notes serving as a place to store ideas I can always revisit.

Fatigue and pain make it difficult to sit and write, especially after a long day of work and full-time studies. Still, I’m determined to pursue my passion. I’m also working on creating and selling digital tools for writers, which excites me. Helping other writers bring their stories to life would be incredibly rewarding. Writing has always been my escape, and when I do get the chance to write for hours, it’s pure joy.

Lately, life has been hectic—family drama and major changes have kept me from having many writing days. With an upcoming move to a different state, my writing has taken a backseat. Despite these challenges, I’ve been fortunate to meet people who encourage and support me. My friends, especially, are my greatest source of motivation when it comes to my writing.

Balancing health and creativity is a challenge, but writing remains a part of me, even when I can’t physically put words on the page.

Happy Writing ^_^

About Myself, January 2025, writing-tips

Balancing Writing with Health Challenges: My Personal Tips

January 22, 2025March 23, 2025 Sara's Writing Sanctuary

Writing can be such a fulfilling and creative outlet, but when you’re dealing with chronic health challenges like fibromyalgia, chronic inflammation, chronic pain, or mental health issues like depression, it’s not always easy. These challenges can make even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. I know firsthand how tough it can be to keep going when your body or mind feels like it’s working against you. That’s why I want to share some simple, personal tips that have helped me balance writing with managing my health.

1. Go Easy on Yourself

Some days are harder than others, and that’s okay. Instead of pushing yourself too hard, try to:

Write when you feel your best, whether that’s early morning or late at night.
Set small, doable goals, like writing for 10 minutes or just a few sentences.
Remind yourself that every little bit counts. Progress is progress, no matter how small.

2. Make Your Writing Space Cozy

Your environment can make a big difference when you’re dealing with pain or fatigue:

Use a comfortable chair and set up your desk so you’re not straining.
Add things that make you happy, like a favorite candle, a soft blanket, or photos you love.
Keep it simple and clutter-free to reduce stress.

3. Take Breaks and Move

Sitting too long can make pain and stiffness worse, and it can also make you feel more down:

Set a timer to remind yourself to get up and stretch every 30 minutes.
Do some light stretches, take a short walk, or even just stand and shake out your arms.
Use these moments to reset your mind and body.

4. Be Kind to Your Mind

When you’re struggling with depression or anxiety, writing can feel overwhelming. Try to:

Break tasks into tiny steps. If starting feels hard, focus on just opening your notebook or document.
Keep a journal to let your feelings out—sometimes writing about what you’re feeling can be freeing.
Take the pressure off. Your writing doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours.

5. Listen to Your Body

It’s easy to ignore pain or exhaustion when you’re in the flow, but it’s important to:

Drink plenty of water and eat foods that make you feel good.
Rest when you need to. Writing will still be there tomorrow.
Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness to calm your body and mind.

6. Celebrate Small Wins

Chronic illness and mental health struggles can make it hard to feel like you’re accomplishing anything, but:

Celebrate every small step, like finishing a sentence or even just sitting down to write.
Remind yourself of the progress you’ve made over time.
It’s not about perfection; it’s about showing up.

7. Use Tools That Make It Easier

When your energy is low or your body’s hurting, let technology help:

Try voice-to-text if typing is hard.
Use apps to organize your notes and ideas so you don’t have to rely on memory.
Editing tools like Grammarly can save you extra effort.

8. Lean on Your Community

You’re not alone, and there are people who understand what you’re going through:

Connect with other writers online who deal with similar challenges.
Share your journey with friends or family who can support you.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether it’s feedback on your writing or just a listening ear.

9. Write What Feels True

Sometimes, your health struggles can inspire your writing in unexpected ways:

Use your experiences to create characters or stories that feel real and relatable.
Explore themes of resilience, growth, or hope—or just write to process your feelings.
Your voice matters, and your perspective is important.

A Final Thought

Living with chronic conditions or mental health challenges isn’t easy, and neither is writing. But together, they can create something beautiful. Be gentle with yourself, take it one day at a time, and remember that every word you write is an achievement. You’re not alone, and your story is worth sharing.

What about you? How do you balance writing with health challenges? I’d love to hear your tips and experiences in the comments!

Happy Writing ^_^