In a recent reflection, writer Carrie Classon shares her experience of illness while in warm Mexico. Although battling a common cold, she finds solace in the sunny environment, allowing her to enjoy fresh-squeezed orange juice while contemplating her recurring pattern of illness linked to periods of intense productivity.
Understanding the Cycle of Illness
Classon describes her tendency to fall ill after completing significant projects. She notes that each time she pushes herself to meet a deadline, her body responds by succumbing to illness shortly after she achieves her goal. Whether it involves finishing a demanding presentation, tackling school finals, or, in her latest case, submitting a book draft to her agent, the aftermath typically leads to a period of recovery characterized by fatigue and discomfort.
Her metaphor of transforming into a “grumpy gecko” encapsulates the frustration and lethargy she experiences during these times. Despite her efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle—monitoring sleep, exercising moderately, and consuming nutritious foods—she remains unaware of her limits until it is too late. “My body says, ‘OK! I did that for you. Now it’s my turn!’” Classon writes, reflecting on her stubbornness.
In her pursuit of success, she often feels euphoric immediately after completing a task, which quickly turns into physical discomfort. “Well, if I can do that, I can do ANYTHING!” she states, only to be met with a sore throat and other symptoms that halt her momentum. Classon finds herself enveloped in the familiar routine of illness—swollen glands, difficulty swallowing, and an endless supply of tissues.
A Lesson in Self-Care
Although her experience does not warrant medical intervention, Classon acknowledges the limitations of her health during these periods. She emphasizes that her illness is not severe but rather a tedious reminder of the importance of self-care. “I wish I could end by saying, ‘Then one day, I discovered what my problem was!’” she notes. The lack of a straightforward solution to her dilemma leaves her searching for ways to mitigate this cycle.
Classon concludes with practical advice for herself and others who might experience similar challenges: find a warm spot, rest as much as possible, and be kind to oneself. She reminds readers that it is acceptable to embrace moments of vulnerability and that everyone deserves to take a break, even if it means temporarily adopting the demeanor of a gecko. The warmth of the sun in Mexico offers her a gentle reminder to allow herself moments of respite and recovery.
This introspective piece serves as a reminder of the intersection between creativity and well-being, highlighting the necessity of balance in the pursuit of one’s goals.
