Living with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) means dealing with changing symptoms. On tough days, it can feel like you're at the mercy of your body. But symptom-heavy days can be opportunities to tap into creativity and mindfulness.
Embracing at-home creativity is my way of coping. It helps me stay productive, mentally engaged, and, most importantly, connected to a sense of joy.
For me, creativity is a form of therapy. When my muscles feel like they’re on strike, crafting is my go-to escape. One of my favorites is making book nooks—those miniature, intricate scenes that nestle between books on a shelf. The process of designing and assembling them transports me to another world, where my imagination runs wild, even though my body can’t.
I also channel my inner kid and build LEGO models, which give me the satisfaction of following steps and achieving something. Plus. it’s an excuse to buy toys as an adult without judgment!
I’ve also tried macramé, framed prints, painted pottery, and dabbled in diamond and scratch art. Crafting is a gift when your body needs rest but your brain is begging for something to do.
Honestly, it’s magical how something as simple as creating can make you feel grounded on the days you’re feeling far from it.
While I don’t dive into jewelry or candle making, knitting, or sewing, these can be just as fulfilling. They offer a chance to make something beautiful with your own hands from the comfort of your sofa. They’re great options when MG leaves you with little energy to spare.
Another hobby that’s instrumental for me is writing.
In addition to my crafty adventures, writing is an essential way I process and reflect on life with MG. I write about my condition, experiences, and thoughts. It helps me make sense of everything. But writing doesn’t have to be confined to journaling. Whether it’s writing a blog, poetry, or a novel (hey, might as well dream big!), putting words on paper is an emotional release. You’re creating something meaningful, even if you’re not physically active.
Music is another creative outlet. I had a ukulele for a while, but it wasn’t until I was homebound during tough MG days that I learned to play. I used the Yousician app to guide me, which is perfect because it allows me to learn at my own pace, without the pressure of formal lessons.
Music is incredibly uplifting. Learning an instrument, even if it’s just a few simple chords, gives me something new to focus on when I can't leave the house.
In fact, learning anything new can be a great way to pass the time during difficult symptom days.
Learning a language or a new skill, like coding, could be an exciting and productive way to challenge your mind. Podcasting is another fantastic option. I didn’t create my own, but I spent a lot of time listening to self-development and mindset podcasts, which help me stay motivated and mentally strong during my toughest days.
There's something about hearing other people's stories of resilience that helps you find your own. Audiobooks are also a great companion, allowing me to absorb new ideas without the strain of reading.
Even when I’m not feeling my best, tidying up around the house or going through old belongings is surprisingly therapeutic. Sorting through old clothes, getting rid of things I no longer need, and even selling some items help me feel productive, even if I can’t leave the house.
There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from decluttering, especially when living with a condition like MG, where so much feels out of your control. For added creativity, you could turn to upcycling old items, turning something worn out into something fresh and new.
On a more introspective note, I turn to meditation and yoga as ways to connect with myself and calm my mind. On days when I’m not physically up for much, sitting quietly and focusing on my breath has been a lifesaver.
Yoga, when my muscles allow it, is a way to feel in tune with my body, even when it feels like my muscles are playing a game of “who can be the weakest today?” These practices are all about mindfulness, which is invaluable in helping me manage the mental side of living with MG.
And then there’s cooking and baking. Thanks to my autoimmune condition, I had to experiment in the kitchen more than I ever thought possible. When you want to make something that tastes good but it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and low in inflammatory properties, you basically become a kitchen scientist—minus the lab coat. But with plenty of failed experiments.
Experimenting with new recipes gives me a creative outlet that’s both challenging and rewarding. Plus, the end result is nourishing my body in the best way possible.
Living with MG isn’t easy, but it’s given me the opportunity to rediscover creativity in ways I never thought possible. Whether crafting, writing, playing music, organizing, or cooking (mostly) edible meals, these activities help me cope on hard days.
They’ve also helped me find joy.
Whatever your creative outlets are, the key is finding what brings you joy and makes you feel a little more in control of your world. Because when you live with MG, those small moments are worth everything.
Photo Credit: Collection Mix/Getty Images
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