So you’re probably thinking, why Brains and Spoons? Don’t worry, we’re not talking about zombie recipes (mmmm brains) or anything from the Matrix. Brains and Spoons is based on the idea of mental health (brains) and chronic illness (spoons).
What is spoon theory?
Spoon theory is based on an explanation that Christine Miserandino gave to a friend to explain her chronic illness. She used spoons to represent the limited amounts of energy many ill people have and showed how much energy is required for everyday tasks. Say you start with 10 spoons and every task requires some of your energy. You shower, take away a spoon. Cook breakfast, take away a spoon. Walk the dog, 3 spoons. Answer emails, more spoons. By lunchtime you’re exhausted and you don’t have any energy left to finish the day. This is a fact of life for those of us with chronic illnesses.
Spoon Theory resonates with so many people with chronic illnesses and autoimmune conditions. We often refer to ourselves as “spoonies”. We recognize that tasks that average people don’t even think about can be extremely difficult for us. There are days where getting out of bed, eating, or showering may take all of our energy spoons. Some days we have more spoons, but just like pain and flare ups, our energy levels are unpredictable.
Magic Theory vs Spoon Theory
I’m a geek girl and a huge gamer. I was even a Star Wars guild master for several years. I’ve found that RPGs and adventure games offer a similar metaphor for Spoon Theory. In many games you have a limited amount of magical energy. Maybe it’s called magic, XP, HP, mana, or just energy. In order to complete tasks or perform spells, you have to have enough magic saved up. Without enough energy in that colored bar, you can’t complete your quest. Now imagine that quest is being a mom. Saving up enough magic to clean the house or organize an event can be impossible. I want to go on the adventure like everyone else, but I never seem to have enough magic energy.
Invisible Illness and Energy Levels
No matter what theory you use to explain the difficulties of everyday tasks, you still can’t see what spoonies are going through. Chronic pain conditions are called invisible illnesses for a reason; they’re hard to spot. We look normal. We’re not usually covered in bandages or writhing in pain or using a wheelchair. We have those moments, but often the world sees us quietly buying groceries like everyone else. So, the next time a spoonie says they can’t handle something or takes a day off, remember that their pain and fatigue is real, even if you can’t see it.
To read more on spoon theory click here
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This is so very true. I had never heard of the term “spoonie” until this article, even though I have heard of and have myself utilized the spoon theory. Thank you for the info!
I love this idea!
Very interesting topic. It’s new information for me and would live to know more.
I absolutely loved this article and your blog! I struggle with a few chronic health issues myself and this is the first time I am reading about the spoon theory. It certainly feels like that waking up everyday and can even be isolating as a result. Keep up the good work!
spoon theory! what a great idea!
This is such a good way of explaining this. Love it!
What you’re saying is so true. I suffer from Psoriatic Arthritis. Most people see me on my good days because I don’t go out on my bad days. For the fact that they only see me when I’m feeling good, they never understand how painful it can be at times. the spoons are a good analogy.
Thanks for sharing. Definitely makes sense to take away a spoon after every task…it must be so exhausting!
This is such an interesting topic to research and learn about! Thanks for spreading the word!
I’m familiar with the spoon theory as my d-in-L suffers from Lupus. Thank you for sharing your story.
This is so so on point. Thank you for sharing such a great way for those without chronic illnesses to understand just how exhausting and hard each day can be.
This is such an important topic. We need to talk more about mental illness. Thank you so much for having this amazing blog!
I love this post. With psoriatic arthritis and a compromised immune system, it’s hard because nobody else can see what I’m going through. It’s draining. I appreciate this post so much!
I like this idea of magic power stores. This resonates more with me. My problem is I just haven’t been able to nail down what my “norm” energy level is on any given day. It seems like a crap shoot. Sometimes I feel like I’ve gobbled up all of those energy building bonus prizes and then other days, I’ve started the day totally depleted. I just try to listen to my body, resting even on those days that I have a lot of energy in between activities. Mostly, though, I use what I have and accept it when I just can’t play the game.
Thanks for sharing this post! This is the first time I’ve heard of the Spoon Theory. I like how it represents and how it helps. I’ll be sharing this among families. ♥
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