Less is More : 5 Minimalist Habits to Manage Chronic Pain/Illnesses

Less is More : 5 Minimalist Habits to Manage Chronic Pain/Illnesses

Maria Aloysius

I believe minimalism is not something trendy, it's practical and necessary for pain management. Minimalism is survival for me. Less is more, less means less movement or pain and more rest and relaxation. I find minimalism means less stress, less clutter and not worrying about cleaning or constant organizing of wardrobes or household items in my home/room/kitchen. Minimalism makes my life easier. 

1. Less clothing

I find owning less clothes (dresses, garments) including a fewer bedsheets and pillow cases are rewarding in the long run. Laundry, then becomes easier when there are less clothing and I feel a sense of accomplishment when I can successfully wash and dry laundry in a short period of time. Since I love fashion too, it is easier to pair my clothing. An example would be dresses with cardigans or sweaters. That way I know exactly what to wear and all clothes get to be worn. I'm maximizing my minimalist clothing! 

2. Less food 

I love knowing the exact number of items that are in the refrigerator or freezer or my kitchen counter. It's easier to keep track of what I have, what I need to finish fast and what needs to be stocked up on. Making food lists help to decrease wasted food and can be economical. This habit goes along with meal prepping and planning when I need to cook while managing chronic pain. Example, I have 3 tomatoes, 2 onions and a bottle of olive oil left. Fruits in the fridge need to be finished by the end of the day/week. Items such as berries, yogurt and dark chocolate need to be finished. 

3. Less household items 

Books that have been read could be shared with others who have not read it yet. I believe in decreasing unwanted decorations, or household items. I make it a point to know the items I have. Book shelves should have limited amount of books, neatly arranged and more organized. Easy on the eyes and easy to get to. That's a plus for managing chronic pain, as I don't have to stand for a long time to look for a book I want. I have easy access. I believe in more space in the hall and in rooms, so I can move easier and not get knocked down and stumble upon any sofas or stools. Believe me, just moving or walking can be a huge challenge when you have chronic pain. I believe in an organized table. A minimalist table is once again accessible and easy in the eyes and mind.

4. More Mental Space : Bedroom

Having an organized bedroom or dressing table is helpful. I do most of my reading, writing, lecturing on the bed as I am still managing my pain. Hence, I need a clear bedroom with less stuff or things so I can have increased mental space. I feel free mentally to think, generate ideas and to create lectures or courses or just to read when I practice minimalism. Less clutter in my brain! Less worry! Less stress! I organized my room so I can easily access my hot water bottle, ice pads, vitamins and medication and water. I believe in having a little pantry in the room for making drinks or having a snack when I wake up or feel light-headed. 

5. More Mental Space : Balcony

Finally, my most favorite, the balcony. I am still currently working on this. I want a minimalist balcony with a few chairs and a table and a little art studio, to set up my paintbrushes and canvas to enjoy the wind, clouds and skies as I just paint! Painting helps alleviate pain and not to mention enjoying Vitamin D from the sun and practicing breathing exercises! 

GIVE MINIMALISM A TRY! YOU WON'T REGRET IT!