I'm constantly working on taking care of my IBS and learning it's not all about how much water I drink or the sort of foods I eat. I am recognizing that my anxiety, which often I try to ignore and/or work through, is responsible for my discomfort and sickness.
I need Spiritual support, which I can easily receive through meditation, prayer and reading. I just have to move and do these things. I also need exercise and a hobby. Gardening and cleaning my house gives me satisfaction in both areas. However, if I don't feel physically able, I curl up with a blanket and watch tv. This is how I baby myself.
When things happen or are happening in my life to make me anxious and physically sick, I will take the occasional anxiety medication my doctor prescribed for me. I don't take it all the time because I don't want to feel relaxed all the time either. I do enjoy doing some things.
Life is not perfect, but it's not hell either. I've accepted I have a condition and tools to help me cope. Other people have far worse health problems. I am thankful for the good days and work through the tough. What else can a person do?