Life with Lupus and what I do to feel better (a list)

I'm all about a list even thought it's been awhile since I've done one here.  I was reflecting on some of the downsides of lupus yesterday as I got through my little "fever in the afternoon" thing I have daily.  However, this morning's meditation (disclaimer--I forced myself to meditate begrudgingly and it's really afternoon) inspired me to make a list of what helped, because that forced meditation really cleared my mind!

Lupus--things that help

1. Heat -- bath, electric blanket, warm clothes, etc.
2. sleep -- my first few months of treatments I needed (and got!) so much.
3. stimulants -- I mean caffeine, but whatever your body best tolerates, I am really sensitive to it so I only take in a small amount
4. fruits and veggies -- a nice green smoothie feels very soothing on my system
5. comedy -- stand up on you tube or netflix, memoirs by comedians, funny clips
6. self-help books -- I have enjoyed an endless supply with my kindle unlimited subscription
7. the practice -- some great habits I learned from one of those books
8. independent kids -- I have expected a lot out of my kids since I found out my oldest had Celiac disease and I wanted her prepared for the ways she'd need to take care of herself out in the world.  Thankfully my kids can all prepare some of their foods, do laundry, etc.  It has helped SO much when I've been super sick, although I still have to really relax my standards when they are helping :).
9. Make-up -- I try to use nourishing products like BB Cream so I can cover the red lupus face at the sun time as I am applying sunscreen to protect myself from the sun, which can exacerbate lupus symptoms
10. Haircolor -- this is not for everyone, but find something fun that puts a smile on your face each day.  My crazy colors did this for me.
11. Meditation -- it yields new but always congruous direction each time.  Most of all it brings peace, but it also grows my love for myself, which has been really hard to do in any other way.  Changing my appearance is fun but does not bring confidence.  Knowing my inner soul makes me feel worthy of love and feel respect for who my soul is.
12. my family -- I have learned the usefulness of asking for what I want from them and being grateful for what they do.  When I do both things I can see how loving and giving their souls are.  People do not read minds.  And their intent is almost always good.  My pride has to be put away to voice what I need, but it sure brings us all closer when we are honest in that way.