Fighting the Flares of Fibro-Fall

As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves change color, many people look forward to the cozy comforts of fall. But for those with fibromyalgia, this time of year often brings more than pumpkin-spiced lattes—it brings pain, fatigue, and brain fog. Seasonal changes, especially the transition into colder months, are notorious for triggering fibro flares. Understanding why these flare-ups happen, identifying common challenges, and equipping yourself with strategies can significantly affect your well-being.

Why Fall Sparks Fibro Flares

Several factors contribute to fibromyalgia symptoms worsening in the fall. Cooler temperatures often stiffen muscles and joints, increasing discomfort and limiting mobility. The drop in barometric pressure can intensify sensations of pain, as the body becomes more sensitive to external changes. On top of that, shorter days and reduced sunlight exposure can lead to disruptions in circadian rhythms, triggering sleep disturbances and mood changes that exacerbate fatigue and cognitive fog.

Another challenge is the seasonal rise in respiratory infections and allergies, which can weaken the immune system and amplify fibro-related inflammation. Additionally, the back-to-school and pre-holiday hustle can bring heightened stress, adding a mental load that makes it harder to maintain healthy routines. All of these changes can create a perfect storm for fibromyalgia sufferers, leaving them physically drained and emotionally vulnerable.

Common Challenges of Fibro-Fall

1. Increased Pain and Stiffness – The cold air can make muscles feel tighter and more rigid, especially in the morning.

2. Fatigue and Brain Fog – With less daylight, the body produces more melatonin, leading to drowsiness and cognitive sluggishness.

3. Mood Shifts – Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can overlap with fibromyalgia symptoms, making it harder to stay positive.

4. Interrupted Routines – The unpredictability of flares can derail daily plans and add stress.

5. Social Isolation – It’s easy to withdraw when feeling unwell, but this can further impact emotional well-being.

While fall may present unique challenges, it’s crucial to remind yourself that managing fibromyalgia is about preparation, intention, and resilience. That’s where my battle strategy comes in.

My Daily Fibro-Fighting Routine: A Battle Strategy for Every Day

Even though fibromyalgia can be unpredictable, I’ve developed a personal strategy to ensure that every day is a good day—even when it’s not the day I originally hoped for. My approach is designed to empower both my mind and body, setting me up to fight through discomfort and reclaim control over my happiness.

1. Empowering Self-Hypnosis
   I start each day with a 10-minute self-hypnosis session. This practice isn’t just about relaxation; it’s about setting a powerful intention for the day. Hypnosis helps me focus my mind, regulate my emotions, and shift my perception of pain. By reinforcing positive beliefs, I anchor myself in a mindset that says, “I am in charge of how I feel today.”

2. Routine Stretching to Wake My Body
   After hypnosis, I gently stretch to activate my muscles and release tension. Stretching not only improves circulation but also keeps stiffness at bay. It’s a way of signaling to my body that, no matter what challenges lie ahead, I am ready to face them.

3. Hydration to Energize My Organs
   While my coffee brews, I drink a glass of water. This small but vital habit helps wake up my internal systems, flushes out toxins, and gives me the energy boost I need to start the day mindfully.

4. Engaging in Creative Activities
   Since fibro can cause both physical and cognitive challenges, I’ve found that creative activities are perfect for foggy, ache-filled days. One of my favorite activities is painting rocks with positive messages. This simple task has multiple benefits: it allows me to engage in brain training, reduces the intensity of pain sensations by putting me in a “flow state,” and provides a sense of accomplishment. I often set up my painting table outside on the balcony to soak in some fresh air and natural light—both of which lift my mood and help manage pain.

5. Creating an Enjoyable Environment
   To keep the momentum going, I play YouTube videos or listen to soothing music while I paint. Background noise keeps me engaged and prevents my mind from wandering to negative thoughts. I firmly believe that the atmosphere I create around me has a direct impact on how I feel.

Reclaiming Control and Living Well

This fibro-fighting strategy allows me to remain in control of my quality of life, even when symptoms try to derail my plans. Yes, fibromyalgia can make it challenging to stick to routines, but I’ve learned to be flexible. If today doesn’t unfold exactly as I imagined, I adjust my expectations rather than letting frustration take over.

The most important lesson I’ve embraced is that I am a warrior. I refuse to let fibromyalgia hijack my happiness or define my experience. Through intentional practices—like hypnosis, stretching, hydration, creativity, and mindfulness—I’ve discovered that I have more power over my well-being than fibro does.

Every day may not be perfect, but with the right mindset and strategies in place, it can still be good. Fibro-fall might bring extra challenges, but I am prepared to meet them head-on. As long as I remain dedicated to my routines and focused on joy, even the foggiest, achiest days can be transformed into victories.

Let fall bring its cool air, dark nights, and changing rhythms—I’m ready. Because when Fibro wants to flare it’s menacing self – I AM PREPARED! I am a FIBRO WARRIOR!

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