Do you listen to your body? Do you slow down or stop when you need to? Recently, I have been working on finding that balance. I deal with chronic pain and ongoing fatigue. If I am being honest, there are days that I really struggle in this area. I am 21 and want to do it all.

I have an inherited peripheral neuropathy called Charcot Marie Tooth Disease (CMT). This disease causes damage to my peripheral nerves and in turn, leads to muscle atrophy. CMT is progressive, and my body has continued to get weaker. I only received my diagnosis a few years ago, and I am still learning how to adjust.

If you have a chronic illness or pain, you know exactly what I am referring to. There is a balance that I have to work on every day. Do I work on tasks or do I rest? If I ignore the need for rest, I overwork my body and become severely fatigued, sometimes for days. 

Struggles Of Finding A Balance 

Almost a year after being first diagnosed I started going to physical therapy sessions. This happened twice a week during my first year of college. 

I remember being asked by my physical therapist about the amount of exercise that consisted in my weekly schedule. I went on to explain that I dance, and continued to take several classes as well as teach a ballet/tap combo class. 

When it came to learning and understanding about my CMT, I knew that without strengthening my muscles my body would continue to get weaker. In my perspective, I thought dancing and exercising more would help. 

However, instead of seeing the positives of exercising more, my physical therapist at the time felt concerned because of the progression of my CMT. If I were to overdo it through exercise and dancing then this could cause permanent damage. On the other hand, if I choose not to strengthen my muscles, then this would lead to further difficulty in mobility. 

This is why I’m having to live with a balance every week. I’m having to prioritize my time spent on college assignments, dance, and time with family or friends. As years have passed since the diagnosis, my CMT has progressed. I am having to limit myself with dance and exercise because of fatigue. On most days I face discouragement because what I want to accomplish is not always possible.  

 Encouragement And Support

In my life, I’m blessed through the encouragement and support from family and friends. Having a chronic illness is not an easy journey and I’m thankful for those who are there for me. Even if most of them cannot relate, I appreciate their support and prayers. 

My prayer is that you are able to reach out to family and friends when you are suffering. This chronic illness or pain may seem overwhelming, but you are not meant to walk through this alone.

 When it comes to finding a balance, I have been comforted through conversations with others who have similar struggles. Knowing there are many communities and groups out there for support, brings a sense of relief. I hope you will continue to be encouraged and find the support that you need. It is a blessing to find others that can relate. 

What You Are Doing Is Enough

I want to encourage you to know that what you are able to do today is enough. Remember to take one day at a time, and it’s okay if you need to rest more. God sees it as enough. He knows that you are trying your best. Living with a chronic illness is a struggle, but in our Father’s eyes, we are enough, because we are His children. 

Even at this moment, whether it may be getting up, talking to a friend, or resting, God will help you through the day. He doesn’t see it as a weakness, but as a strength because you are accomplishing what you are able. I encourage you to look to the one who is always with us. He will be there guiding you through every day as you are continuing to find that balance. 

I wanted to leave you with a verse from Scripture that has helped me in seasons of struggles. I hope this encourages you today. 

but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. 

Isaiah 41:31