By Dr. Jane Guttman
About Spoons
“This is an example of pacing when shopping. Break shopping into multiple steps: 1) rest at home before driving the car to the store, 2) drive to the store, 3) rest, lying down in the car after driving to the store, 4) shop for 30 min in the store, 5) rest lying down in the car before going home, 6) drive home and 7) rest at home.” ― Alison C. Bested
Most of us think of spoons for soup or ice cream. Those with serious chronic illness have another view on spoons. Do you know someone with a chronic illness? Maybe they have shared about the spoon theory as a metaphor for disability. Every day she or he begins with a set of spoons. Each activity, or even a portion of each activity takes a spoon. There is only an allotted number per day so use of spoons is wise and calculated. Some suggest keeping one on hand for something unexpected. When the spoons are used up, the day is done…or possibly to borrow from tomorrow. Yet tomorrow has its tasks and needs. See how it works firsthand. Give it a try. Start with a dozen spoons and when you complete a task, remove a spoon from your daily spoon count. This can give an idea of the harsh realities for our loved ones living the spoon life. Spoons direct their lives. At the end of a day, one may want to do a few things, just a few. And yet there are no spoons. Not for making a snack, folding clean clothes, making a call, sending an email or even doing the self-care practices that could bring improved health. Empathy is nurtured through our recognition of those living with spoon concerns. We may want to offer help, a kind ear, offer to bring groceries, cook a meal, take the trash out or clean a cat box. Small gestures for spoonies are cherished. Bring a meal. Wash the dishes, give a hug and deliver comfort in the ways that resonate with you and the other. Spoonies live with immense hardship. Your warm smile will go a long way in lifting a heart. Your comforting tone will ease worries and discomfort. Some folks living with chronic illness prefer to handle their spoon rations on their own. Watch for a cue so you can give what is most needed. Privacy and autonomy may be preferred. Those living with spoon banks are often invisible in terms of an illness. You may not notice the disability… Keep a watch so you can help. Mr. Rogers said to look for the helpers in life. If you’re not in the spoon club, join the club of helpers…a noble gesture to give to someone living with chronic illness. As you walk in the door, or connect on a call, announce your supportive presence to conserve spoons. Possibly there could be enough for a shared meal, a lovely visit, a walk or a favorite activity. Invite the spoonie to a local eatery for soup and enjoy the everyday use of spoons together.
All guidance is educational and not given as medical advice or treatment., nor is it meant to take the place of qualified medical professionals. Please check with your physician for all medical concerns.
Jane Guttman is a bio-energetic practitioner, workshop presenter, educator, retired holistic chiropractor, Life-Wellness doula, and practices focused hearing. Her practice includes Soul Sound, energetic tapping, writing for wellness, memory release, pet hospice care, and crystal well-being. Her process invites deep reflection, self-love, and well-being; her healing work invites the presence of inner peace, an essential energy to sustain wellness and wholeness. Her work with focused hearing and intuitive guidance have helped many to redirect their lives. Jane’s process has evolved over thirty years of study/practice with the late Dr. M.T. Morter, D.C. and the late Dr. Lucille Edwards, an eminent and recognized metaphysical healer, clairvoyant and energy healer. Jane is committed to assisting people and pets of all ages in attaining wellness goals.
Educational and Related Services: (Non-medical)
Crystal Well Being – EFT Tapping – Emotive Memory Release – Energetic Balancing – Intuitive Guidance/Focused Hearing – Pet Well-Being – Sound Healing – Wellness Doula – Writing for Wellness
Contact Info: Drjane4wellness@gmail.com (909)436-9500
I think she did a great job with the spoon theory – with one exception. She states “normal” people have unlimited spoons. NO ONE has unlimited spoons, not even hyperactive toddlers. Virtually everyone gets to the end of the day and is tired. The difference is that tiredness for others isn’t debilitating, and they can begin the next day will all their “spoons.” Those of us fighting something may take several days to recover.
I think of it more like a daily allowance. Every thing we do in the day costs – Fifty cents to get out of bed and $2 to take a shower. $25 for a full day of work and $7 to get the kids off to school. Etc., etc. So, everyone will be different in what they start with, but most people probably have between $75-80 at the start of a day. If my allowance is $5-10, you can see how quickly i’ll run out and be broke.