Chronic Illness, Work, and the Power of Slowing Down

There’s something about late fall that reminds me of hibernation.

The days grow shorter, the air cools, and everything in nature slows down to conserve energy for the renewal of spring. But slowing down doesn’t come naturally to me. Like so many of us, I’ve been taught to measure my worth by my output—how much I can do, produce, and achieve in a day.

Living with chronic illness has forced me to reimagine that relationship with work.

Work Looks Different Now

For a long time, I thought “working hard” was the ultimate way to show up for others and myself. Chronic illness flipped that idea on its head.

Now, work has to be more intentional. My calls are shorter, my focus more practical, and my energy more precious than ever. Every task is weighed against the question:
Will this deplete me, or will it serve me and the collective in the long run?

This shift hasn’t been easy. It’s isolating at times. Chronic illness forces you into rhythms that the world around you doesn’t always understand. While others are pushing forward, you’re learning to sit still, conserve, and listen to your body’s needs.

And that loneliness? It’s real.

The Lessons of Slowing Down

But late fall reminds me that slowing down isn’t just necessary—it’s part of the natural order.

Trees drop their leaves. Animals retreat into burrows. The earth itself takes a pause. Chronic illness has made me realize that I am no different. I can’t pour into others—my family, my community, my work—if I don’t take time to replenish myself.

This slowing down isn’t about failure; it’s about care. It’s about honoring the seasons within us and preparing for the spring, when we can show up for the collective with energy, clarity, and purpose.

Hibernation and Self-Care

Slowing down has changed the way I think about self-care. It’s not just about bubble baths or naps (though I’ll never say no to either). It’s about making peace with less.

Less output.
Shorter calls.
More quiet.
And permission to prioritize my needs without guilt.

But here’s the truth: that kind of radical self-care can feel lonely. When the world moves at a relentless pace, pausing feels isolating, as if you’ve been left behind. Chronic illness often pulls you out of step with the world—and that disconnection can be hard to sit with.

Preparing for Spring

What I’m learning, though, is that hibernation has a purpose. Just like in nature, this season of rest is an act of preparation. By slowing down now, I’m rebuilding the energy I’ll need to bloom later.

For me, spring looks like:

• Showing up for my community in meaningful ways.

• Having the capacity to hold space for others.

• Moving from a place of rest, not burnout.

And this rhythm, while new, is teaching me to trust that rest is not just resistance—it’s necessary.

We’re Not Meant to Hibernate Alone

If you’ve ever felt isolated while slowing down, I see you. Chronic illness can make you feel like you’re moving through life in a different key than everyone else. But hibernation doesn’t have to mean hibernating alone.

Let’s hold space for one another during these slower seasons. Share the quiet. Honor the pause. And remind each other that rest is a collective act—one that ultimately allows us to show up for the people and work we care about most.

As we move through these late fall months, I’m learning to embrace this quieter, more intentional version of work. It’s not always easy, but it’s necessary. Because when we care for ourselves deeply, we’re better able to care for the collective.

Here’s to slowing down, conserving energy, and trusting that spring will come.

With love and gratitude,

myisha t hill

How You Can Walk Alongside Me

If you’re wondering how you can support me during this time, here are a few ways to walk alongside me in this next chapter:

💸 Donations or Financial Support – Managing life while recovering from illness is no small task. If you’re able to give, your support will help me ease back into work without feeling overwhelmed by expenses. No amount is too small—it all makes a difference. Support HERE

📝 Spread the Word – If you know someone who might want to support or share a resource, passing this along would mean the world to me.