We Are #MightyTogether

Had the pleasure to see his Lt. Dan Band play a twilight gig for thousands of veterans yesterday. Famous for "CSI New York" and Lt. Dan in "Forrest Gump," Sinise was caregiver for both his wife and son going through cancer at the same time. Mac Sinise passed away in 2024 at 33 years old.

Gary Sinise reads Romans 5:3-5. www.youtube.com/shorts/YCbL-WlOM9M

#MultipleSclerosis #MightyTogether #Caregiving #ChronicIllness #newlydiagnosed #autoimmune #Disability

Lately, I’ve been getting outside more.

Which sounds simple, but for me, it hasn’t always been that easy.

More often than not, there is something within me that sees even simple things as a hassle. If I go outside, that means I have to stop whatever it is that I’m doing and make time for it. And when I’m hyperfocused on work, writing, or a project, I rarely want to do that.

It’s strange how I tend to neglect the things that would probably help me the most. I’ve never really understood why I do that, especially when I know that once I actually get outside, I’m happy.

I feel lighter, more focused, and more motivated.

The problem is always getting there.

I’ve always been someone who loves being comfy at home. I don’t really like to go out if I don’t have to. I like being in my own space.

And my safe space just so happens to be my room.

I’ve usually got my fan going because I overheat easily, my TV on in the background, and my computer right in front of me.

What can I say? It’s my little bubble of happiness.

But I’ve also realized that when I stay in that comfort zone for too long, my energy drops, my motivation disappears, and my world starts to feel a little smaller.

The other day, I decided to take advantage of my townhouse’s pool.

I love swimming. It’s always been my favorite form of exercise. But somehow, being comfortable inside often keeps me from it.

As a caregiver, my mom wanted to get some movement and therapy in by doing a little swimming. And honestly, doing that requires a lot of energy from both of us.

This was our first attempt at getting her into the pool, and long story short, it was exhausting—mentally and physically.

But once things settled and I got her back inside, I decided to stay by the pool for a little while.

I brought my portable speaker, some ice water, and a hat because my face burns ridiculously easily.

And honestly?

Just lying there on the chaise lounge, listening to my music and feeling the warmth of the sun against my skin helped re-center me.

It was peaceful.

There were no racing thoughts. No anxiety. No pressure to be productive.

I was simply there.

And it made me realize that I want—and deserve—more moments like that.

Moments that make me feel alive.

I think we sometimes put too much pressure on self-care.

We think going outside means we need to go on a long walk, hike a trail, or do some intense workout.

I used to think that way.

But going outside can look like different things:

Drinking your coffee on the patio.

Sitting in the sunshine for ten minutes.

Reading a book outside.

Gardening.

Taking a slow walk.

Eating a meal outdoors.

Sitting by the pool and doing absolutely nothing.

Those moments count.

I think that for many neurodivergent people, life can feel like a constant stream of stimulation.

We’re dealing with noises, screens, responsibilities, and thoughts that never seem to slow down.

Creating moments of quiet and connection can really help us reset.

For me, I’ve learned that sunshine, fresh air, and slowing down help me feel more grounded. They help me reconnect with myself.

You don’t have to spend hours outside every day, either.

Sometimes five or ten minutes is enough.

Enough to step away from everything for a little while.

I’m learning that some of the most meaningful things are often the simplest.

Sometimes self-care is stepping outside.

Feeling the sun on your skin.

Taking a few deep breaths.

Doing absolutely nothing.

Just being there.

And honestly?

I think I need more of that.

What is one simple habit that helps you feel more like yourself?

#MentalHealth #selfcare #Neurodiversity #Anxiety #ADHD #Autism #Mindfulness #MightyTogether