What is Brains and Spoons?

So you’re probably thinking, why Brains and Spoons? Don’t worry, we’re not talking about zombie recipes (mmmm brains) or anything from the Matrix. Brains and Spoons is based on the idea of mental health (brains) and chronic illness (spoons).

What is spoon theory?

Spoon theory is based on an explanation that Christine Miserandino gave to a friend to explain her chronic illness. She used spoons to represent the limited amounts of energy many ill people have and showed how much energy is required for everyday tasks. Say you start with 10 spoons and every task requires some of your energy. You shower, take away a spoon. Cook breakfast, take away a spoon. Walk the dog, 3 spoons. Answer emails, more spoons. By lunchtime you’re exhausted and you don’t have any energy left to finish the day. This is a fact of life for those of us with chronic illnesses.

Spoon Theory resonates with so many people with chronic illnesses and autoimmune conditions. We often refer to ourselves as “spoonies”. We recognize that tasks that average people don’t even think about can be extremely difficult for us. There are days where getting out of bed, eating, or showering may take all of our energy spoons. Some days we have more spoons, but just like pain and flare ups, our energy levels are unpredictable.

Magic Theory vs Spoon Theory

I’m a geek girl and a huge gamer. I was even a Star Wars guild master for several years. I’ve found that RPGs and adventure games offer a similar metaphor for Spoon Theory. In many games you have a limited amount of magical energy. Maybe it’s called magic, XP, HP, mana, or just energy. In order to complete tasks or perform spells, you have to have enough magic saved up. Without enough energy in that colored bar, you can’t complete your quest. Now imagine that quest is being a mom. Saving up enough magic to clean the house or organize an event can be impossible. I want to go on the adventure like everyone else, but I never seem to have enough magic energy.

Invisible Illness and Energy Levels

No matter what theory you use to explain the difficulties of everyday tasks, you still can’t see what spoonies are going through. Chronic pain conditions are called invisible illnesses for a reason; they’re hard to spot. We look normal. We’re not usually covered in bandages or writhing in pain or using a wheelchair. We have those moments, but often the world sees us quietly buying groceries like everyone else. So, the next time a spoonie says they can’t handle something or takes a day off, remember that their pain and fatigue is real, even if you can’t see it.

To read more on spoon theory click here

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