I’ve been disabled or semi-disabled with CFIDS since late 1996. Allopathy wasn’t getting me much of anywhere, so in late 2003 (a few months after getting really good health insurance at long last) I carefully selected a local naturopath. She put me on a regimen of supplements that includes a whole lot of antioxidants. (There’s some interesting research going on in that area.) She also counseled me about my activity levels, persuading me to avoid crashes as much as possible; I mentally labeled 2004 the Year of Not Being An Overactive Idiot.

I’m not saying I’m healed – there is no magic bullet – but I’m having many more good days and my good days are getting better. I can do the laundry now and can usually take the bus around town without getting unduly exhausted.

In early 2004 I found a “Slow Beginners” yoga class that doesn’t involve a whole lot of standing up. After a few months of that, I was ready to start doing some gentle Pilates. Cautious but steady is the ticket. I’m loving having more strength and flexibility.

My CFIDS-related tasks now are to build a more consistent home practice, to avoid useless drama, to eat healthier food, and to enjoy and develop the abilities I have.