Axial Spondyloarthritis: A Lesson in Traveling With Intention

I’ve never been a massive fan of “traveling,” but I appreciate arriving at my destination. Before 2020, I used to travel quite often for work, but nowadays, I appreciate the joy of traveling from my office to my kitchen most days for work. That said, during a recent business trip to the vibrant city of New Orleans, I was reminded that fatigue is still a very present reality in my life.

Picture this – cobblestone streets, jazz melodies in the air, and a conference buzzing with knowledge. Exciting, right? It was until I learned a valuable lesson about pacing, energy, and the importance of not overloading our agendas.

Finding a balance

As you know, living with axial spondyloarthritis can present unique challenges every day. Navigating the world with axSpA requires a delicate balance between exploration and self-care. In the spirit of sharing experiences that can empower and enlighten you, let me take you through my enlightening journey in the lively streets of New Orleans.

The conference was everything I hoped for – informative sessions, networking opportunities, and the chance to soak in the culture of a city known for its soulful spirit. Eager to make the most of my time, I planned two walking tours for the first two days. The excitement was palpable, but my enthusiasm exceeded my body's capacity.

A great conference ended with pain and fatigue

After those initial days, reality hit me – hard. My joints were protesting, and fatigue had settled in like an unwelcome guest. I realized that I had neglected a crucial aspect of traveling with a chronic condition – pacing myself.

The following two days, wisely left without a set agenda, became my salvation. Instead of pushing through the pain, I embraced the opportunity to rest, rejuvenate, and reflect. Those days of calm allowed me to appreciate the city's beauty at my own pace, without the pressure of a tight schedule.

You might be wondering what my travel tale has to do with axSpA...

Well, everything. This condition demands becoming an expert in self-care, listening to your body, and acknowledging your limitations. It's about understanding that a flare-up doesn't equate to failure but rather a signal to recalibrate and proceed with newfound wisdom.

The key takeaway from my New Orleans escapade is considering the power of intentional travel. By intentionally planning rest days and leaving room for spontaneity, you're not just sightseeing – you're cultivating a holistic approach to health that promotes well-being and minimizes the risk of exhausting yourself.

In the world of axSpA, every journey – a literal trip to a new city or the daily navigation of our lives – is an opportunity for growth and transformation. My time in New Orleans became a metaphor for this ongoing journey, a reminder that our approach to life is as crucial as the destinations we aspire to reach.

So, dear friends on this shared path, I invite you to share your insights in the comments below. How do you approach travel with axSpA? What lessons have you learned that might resonate with others in our community?

Remember, our shared experiences can pave the way for a more informed, empowered, and connected community. Safe travels in your adventures worldwide and the remarkable journey of living with axSpA.