Written by: Amanda Phillips

As the days shorten and temperatures cool, the simple comfort of warmth becomes, quite literally, essential to those of us living with chronic illness. Be it for joint pain, exhaustion, or a seven- or eight-hour hospital visit or infusion, warmth and comfort become paramount. For me, nothing does the trick quite as effectively as a soft blanket. But not just any blanket. The right blanket can do more than just keep you warm; it's a source of comfort and calm on those days when all your body is really fighting you every step of the way. Which is why, always and without fail, I find myself reaching for one of BeWell's Infusion Day Blankets. These are not typical blankets, having been designed with motivational sayings speaking to those of us living with chronic illness. They remind us that we are stronger than we think, even when we don't feel like that. Here is why having a high-quality blanket is a must this fall and how it can make a real difference in your daily life.

Comfort for Rest Days

Let's get real—rest days are not optional if you're living with a chronic condition. When you're in the midst of a flare or simply just too exhausted to function, your body insists upon some downtime. On those days, a cozy blanket is an essential member of your survival team. There's just something about being wrapped in a soft, comforting blanket that can make you relax just a little bit more, even when your body feels at war with itself.

I love using the Infusion Day Blanket whenever I need that little extra comfort. It's soft and warm, motivating you to go through even on the hardest days with messages. Knowing it was made with the chronic illness community in mind makes it feel so much more than just a blanket; like a gentle hug reminding me that I'm not alone in this fight.

Essential to Take Along to the Hospital

If you have ever been admitted to a hospital, then you will surely understand how cold and sterile that space can feel. The fluorescent lights, constant beeping of machines, endless waiting—it is a lot to take in when you're feeling vulnerable. The little extra comfort something familiar, like your personal blanket, can bring during those long hospital stays or appointments, makes quite a difference.

For me, this Quilted Comfort Blanket is ideal for a stay in the hospital. It's not just the warmth—albeit that most definitely can be welcome when those rooms get so cold—but it's like having a little piece of home with me. The weighted blanket and motivational messages sewn into the design lend me just a little more strength when I especially need it, or at least remind me that I have it within me already.

Infusion-Friendly

Let's talk about infusion days: very long, fatiguing sessions that leave you exhausted. The infusion centers are cold, and to sit for hour after hour can be very uncomfortable, if not to say the least. I have found that bringing a cozy blanket along can make this experience at least somewhat bearable. That is one small way of taking control of an otherwise overwhelming situation.

The Inspirational Muslin Blanket; this is for the infusions. It is so lightweight, warm, and the uplifting words printed on it remind me that though I might not feel that way right now, I am strong. I like to pair it with my IV Zip Hoodie because now I can be comfortable without having to consider how to access my IV line. Life is about the little things that make the crappy days a smidgen easier.

Immune Support with the Use of Warmth

Warmth is not only about comfort but also about immune support. Some of us have to put up with chronic ailments, especially autoimmune disorders, wherein it becomes very important that our body maintains the correct temperature. The cold may wreak havoc on our joints, fatigue our body, and make it suffer immensely in fighting off infections.

That's where something like the Infusion Day Blanket or the Quilted Comfort Blanket comes in. Not only do they serve to warm physically, but motivational quotes on them help provide emotional warmth. These blankets are designed to wrap you in comfort and remind you that you are resilient, even on the toughest days.

The Perfect Fall Gift

A blanket like this is never a bad idea for those who are trying to think of something to give to someone suffering with a chronic condition. They're practical but deep in personal meaning, offering warmth and comfort while delivering messages of strength and encouragement. Whether it's the Inspirational Muslin Blanket, the Quilted Comfort Blanket, or the Infusion Day Blanket, each one is designed with the chronic illness community in mind.

Sometimes, the littlest things help: the softness of a blanket, the comfort of a cup of tea, a kind word. Whoever one is buying for, be it oneself or a friend, a high-quality blanket does much more than comfort you on a physical level; on those chillier months, it provides emotional security.

In this case, living with a chronic illness is just about finding comfort wherever you can. Sometimes, it's the little things that get you through the day. Wrapping up in a soft blanket, especially one made with Spoonies in mind, might offer a feeling of safety, warmth, and belonging that is otherwise nonexistent.

So, as the days grow a little cooler, I would encourage you to take time to focus on your comfort—whether that be bundling up in the Infusion Day Blanket, the Quilted Comfort Blanket, or even the Inspirational Muslin Blanket. Of course, these are more than just functional blankets; they are there to remind one that they are not alone in this journey, nor must they be ashamed to sit at rest, recharge themselves, and take care of the self.

And with the fall chill setting in, be sure to take extra care of your body, mind, and heart. Take comfort in the little things and be strong for this next journey.