kate galea

Chronic pain and Mental Health connection

Being outdoors can feel like a genuine lifeline, but when you're managing chronic pain from EDS and Fibromyalgia, just getting out the door takes immense physical and mental energy. Balancing hypermobility, fatigue, and flare-ups means the simple act of being outside on some days takes real planning, so finding ways to make it gentle and restorative is important and this is awareness that just sitting outside on days that your body is too sore is ok too, because when you can go for a walk, PT, Gym, you must to keep your mental health in check.  I have a list of different ways you can connect to the outside below. 

Low-Impact Ways to Connect with Outdoors

• Passive Nature Exposure: Sit near an open window, on a porch, or in a quiet park spot with supportive seating. You get the benefits of natural light and fresh air without placing stress on hypermobile joints.
• Micro-Doses of Fresh Air: Limit outings to 5 or 10 minutes. Short, intentional moments outside still help reset your circadian rhythm and release gentle endorphins without triggering a post-exertional crash or joint strain.
• Prop and Cushion Support: Use portable cushions, lumbar supports, or ergonomic outdoor chairs to protect your joints and prevent muscle guarding while seated outside.
• Sensory Focus: Practice simple grounding—focusing on the sound of birds, the feeling of the sun on your skin, or the rustle of leaves—to help shift your nervous system out of a chronic pain response.

It is incredibly powerful that you are turning your own lived experience into support for others. Raising awareness around mental health when you are navigating chronic illness yourself takes tremendous heart.

How are you planning to structure your fundraising effort, or is there a specific way you're looking to share your story?