THE SPOON THEORY w/Fox Rigney

Stride one, stride two, stride three, toe stub, legs wobble, arms spin, feet planted, and recovered. Time to catch up. Stride one, stride two, stride three, legs of molasses, gravity winning against my upright poster, maximum effort to raise my knees, and I stop. Watching first-time runners outpace me was unbelievable. Stride for stride, matching their jog was beyond my capability. Why!? The running skills I developed over a decade should easily match pace with new runners.

That was the first day my spoons were notably depleted in the moment. I hadn’t yet been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis or exposed to spoon theory. Months later, while reading a magazine article, much like this one, I was introduced to Spoon Theory. That article taught me more than a concept, but a shared language and terminology commonly used between groups struggling with a consistent deficit of energy, like me. This article aims to inform those unaware of “Spoon Theory” about its concept and origin.

What are Spoons?
Spoons are a metaphor describing the finite energy we have to navigate our day. Each morning, we wake up with a certain number of spoons, and every activity, no matter how small, depletes our spoons. Activities could include:

     Physical tasks: showering, dressing, exercising
     Mental tasks: making decisions, concentrating, studying
     Emotional tasks: having difficult conversations, dealing with stress or anxiety

Why Spoons?
The term “spoon theory” was coined by Christine Miserandino, who lives with lupus. In a conversation with her friend, she used spoons on a table to illustrate how her chronic illness affected her energy levels. This simple, tangible analogy resonates with many people facing similar challenges.

Chronic illnesses, disabilities, and mental health conditions can significantly reduce the number of spoons we have. It’s like starting the day with a smaller set of silverware than someone living without a chronic illness. Furthermore, tasks that might cost those absent of a chronic illness one spoon could cost someone with a chronic illness many spoons.

When We Say, “I’m Out of Spoons…”
This phrase signifies we have reached our limit. We have used up our available energy for the moment or day and can no longer function at our usual capacity. It’s a way to communicate our needs and boundaries without explaining the complexities of our condition.

Spoon Theory as a Tool for Understanding
Spoon theory is a powerful tool for fostering empathy and understanding. It provides a simple, yet effective way to explain the impact of invisible illnesses and disabilities. It can also help those of us with chronic conditions communicate our needs and set boundaries with friends, family, and coworkers. Please remember:

     Everyone has a different number of spoons.
     Some days we have more spoons than others.
     It’s okay to say “no” when we’re out of spoons.
     Respecting our spoon levels and limitations is critical.

Years of trial and error passed before I had a commanding grasp of how many spoons I have and how to use them. It’s important to respect and give grace for each spoon we use at events, activities, and situations. Thoughtful consideration makes participating in the world a deeper, richer, and more fulfilling experience. 

A phenomenal spoon necklace can be purchased, at the below link, to show our shared spoon endeavors and support AwareNow Magazine & Podcasts, in their beautiful efforts to raise awareness for causes one story at a time:

     The Spoon Life Necklace
     www.thespoonlife.org 

One stride, two strides, done. ∎