Through the looking glass

01/25/2025

https://youtu.be/DnMXmw1L1IY

Today I’m taking you through a tough but honest day in my life as I deal with my first fibromyalgia flare of the year. If you’ve ever struggled with chronic ...

12/17/2024

The woman in the mirror
Chronic illness taught me how to endure, to push through, to survive. But menopause? Menopause demanded surrender.
This isn’t a story about answers. It’s about living in the questions.

🔗 Read the full essay here:
https://open.substack.com/pub/ttlookingglass/p/the-woman-in-the-mirror?r=4chqbi&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

For Those Who No Longer recognize themselves

12/12/2024

After a few hiccups along the way, I’m absolutely thrilled to announce that Life of Mine is finally published and available on Amazon! 🎉
I’ve included links for most regions where you can grab a copy, but if you don’t see it, simply search Life of Mine Daniela Vasconcellos under the books section on Amazon.
This heartfelt collection is the perfect way to treat yourself or surprise someone you love this Christmas. 🎄💝
I’d love to hear your thoughts once you get your copy—let me know! 💬 And if you could take a moment to leave a review on Amazon, it would mean the world to me. Reviews help the book gain traction, and it’s a wonderful way to support my journey.
Thank you so much for being a part of this special moment with me! 💖

📚 Get your copy now:
Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1069053201
U.S. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1069053201
Australia https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/1069053201
The Netherlands: https://www.amazon.nl/dp/1069053201
Sweeden https://www.amazon.se/dp/1069053201
UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1069053201
Denmark https://www.amazon.de/dp/1069053201
France https://www.amazon.fr/dp/1069053201
Italy https://www.amazon.it/dp/1069053201
Poland https://www.amazon.it/dp/1069053201
Japan https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/1069053201

12/02/2024

10 days to launch!
Ten days to my book launch! Life of Mine is more than poetry—it’s a conversation with the heart, a reflection on resilience, and a companion for the journey. Each page holds a piece of my story, and soon it will become part of yours. Let’s begin this countdown together.

11/29/2024

I wrote a book! The moment is here, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this with you all! My book “Life of Mine: A Lifetime Journey Through Chronic Illness” will be available on Amazon on Dec 10 2024. This book is a labor of love, resilience, and inspiration. 💛

I’ve just posted a special behind-the-scenes video on YouTube, taking you through the incredible journey of bringing this book to life—from the first ideas to flying to Holland to meet the illustrator (my talented brother!). 🎥✈️

👉 Click the link in my bio to watch the video and get an exclusive sneak peek into the heart and soul of this project.

✨ Let me know in the comments what you think of the cover!
Together, let’s celebrate stories of hope, healing, and the strength we find in our journeys. 💪🌿

11/17/2024

What if the most radical, life-changing act you could take today is… to rest?

Not after your to-do list is done, but right now—exactly as you are.

In a world that glorifies busyness, living with chronic illness invites us to redefine what it means to be “productive.” Rest isn’t laziness or wasted time—it’s healing, strength, and resilience.

Like nature in winter, rest nurtures renewal beneath the surface. Choosing to pause is an act of courage, a way of saying, “I matter.”

🌿 This week, I’m challenging myself to embrace rest as a lifeline, not a luxury. Will you join me? Let’s celebrate the power of stillness together.

✨ Read more in my latest Substack Newsletter [Link in bio].

10/25/2024

It's peak fall here in Ontario, so enjoy a cozy fall vlog.

Hey friends! 🍁 Fall is full peak here, and I’m diving right in! I just signed up for a pottery class I’ve been dying to try, and I’m super excited to get st...

09/14/2024

Life with chronic illness is ever-changing, just like the river. We are constantly evolving, learning, and growing—becoming stronger in ways we never thought possible. 🌿

This quote reminds me of the strength that lies in change and how we evolve through every step of our journey.

If this resonates with you, I dive deeper into reflections like this in my newsletter, filled with insights, personal stories, and strategies for navigating life’s changing tides.

Subscribe to my Subsatac for more
LINK IN BIO

09/09/2024

Exciting News! 🌟
I’m SO thrilled to finally share with you all… 🥁 Musings of My Chronic Life has officially launched! 🎉
This newsletter is a way for us to stay connected, share personal reflections, and dive deeper into the topics that matter most to our community. From practical tips to community spotlights and a little inspiration to brighten your day, I’ve packed it with all the things we love to talk about here!
Whether you’re navigating life with chronic illness or simply looking for a little extra support and inspiration, Musings of My Chronic Life will be like a cozy chat in your inbox. 📝💛
🌿 What you can expect:
* Personal reflections & deeper insights
* Practical tips for daily life
* Uplifting community stories
* Inspiration corner for those tough days
* Yummy recipes and more!
PLUS, for those who want more, I’ve created a paid subscription option with exclusive bi-weekly content, behind-the-scenes videos, book reviews, and a private chat room where we can connect on a deeper level. 💬✨
Click the link in my bio to subscribe now—it’s completely FREE (unless you want all those fun extras!). I can’t wait to see you there!
Thank you all for your love and support. Let’s keep this beautiful journey going, and never lose touch. 💖

09/09/2024

Hi, friends!
I’m so excited to share that the Musings of My Chronic Life newsletter has officially launched! 🎉 After all the love and support we’ve shared on YouTube, I wanted to create another space where we can stay connected and dive even deeper into our journey together. This newsletter is my way of bringing you closer to my world and keeping our conversations alive—no matter what.

Each month, I’ll be sending personal reflections, practical tips, and a community spotlight right to your inbox. Expect uplifting stories, helpful advice for navigating life with chronic illness, and, of course, some of my favorite recipes to make life just a little easier.

What to expect:

Personal insights and reflections on life with chronic illness
Practical tips and tricks to make each day a little smoother
Community stories to remind us we’re never alone
Inspiration corner for those days when we all need a little extra light
Delicious, easy recipes for nourishing meals
Plus, fun recommendations of what I’m into lately—books, shows, podcasts, you name it!
And for those who want even more, I’m also offering a paid subscription with exclusive bi-weekly content, in-depth articles, and a private chat room where we can connect on a deeper level.

Whether you stick with the free version or decide to join me for more, I’m so grateful to have you with me. This community has been such an incredible support, and I’m beyond excited to take this journey with you in a new way. 💛

You can sign up now through the link below! Let’s keep growing, supporting, and inspiring each other—no matter what life throws our way.

Thank you all so much for being a part of this incredible journey. I can’t wait to see you in your inbox! ✨

Sign up for Musings of My Chronic Life

With love and gratitude,
Daniela Magalhaes

https://open.substack.com/pub/ttlookingglass/p/season-of-change-embrace-adapt-thrive?r=4chqbi&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

08/26/2024

You know those embarrassing things that happen because of your chronic illness—the ones you don't want anyone to know about but feel bad thinking you might be the only one? Well, today I'm taking the hit and sharing it with the world so you don't feel so alone.

https://youtu.be/F3xn7hDQ4ZQ?si=C3cYc1qkRBUEXMRw

You know those embarrassing things that happen because of your chronic illness—the ones you don't want anyone to know about but feel bad thinking you might b...

08/09/2024

If you suffer from migraines you should check this video out.

My Journey to Medication-Free Migraine Relief: How HeadaTerm 2 Changed My Life
https://youtu.be/eThiHLAgSGI

Discount code: TTLG20 for 20%offStruggling with migraine relief? 🧠🤕 Discover the medication-free solution with HeadaTerm 2, powered by eTNS technology. Th...

07/02/2024

Hey friends, it’s Daniela! 🌟 Today's vlog is all about shaking things up as I venture into something a bit unconventional—Tired of waiting for answers and solutions from the medical world, I’ve decided to take matters into my own hands and explore alternatives that might ease my back pain. Find out what I’m up to in this vlog.

Hey friends, it’s Daniela! 🌟 Today's vlog is all about shaking things up as I venture into something a bit unconventional—I’ve bought an inversion table! Ti...

06/14/2024

My Battle With Back Pain: A Health Journey Update

Hey guys! I've got a health update for you all – it's been a long time coming since my trip to Brazil to see my rheumatologist. This is a very low-key inform...

05/27/2024

50 lessons from 50 years on this earth.

Hey everyone, welcome back to the channel! Today, I’m taking you on a special journey right from the heart of Brazil, specifically the stunning Jurerê Beach ...

05/06/2024

Spring has sprung, and while I’m thrilled to be planting herbs and enjoying the vibrant blooms, I'm also gearing up for a journey that's stirring a mix of emotions. I'm headed to Brazil soon, not just for the adventure but to seek some crucial medical insights for my fibromyalgia and ankylosing spondylitis. This trip is more than it seems—it’s about managing pain, navigating healthcare hurdles, and facing the memories of past experiences. Join me as I share the real, raw side of living with a chronic condition. Ready, Let’s go!
https://youtu.be/hjml2Z4e9jo?si=qBjO8D11QMrWwtd7

Hey everyone, Daniela here! Spring has sprung, and while I’m thrilled to be planting herbs and enjoying the vibrant blooms, I'm also gearing up for a journey...

05/06/2024

Once upon a time, I was known for my stylish wardrobe. From blazers to dresses, I loved expressing myself through fashion. But then fibromyalgia changed everything. Now, comfort is my priority. No more tight clothes or high heels—I can’t stand anything against my body. Even a single clothing tag can ruin my day. My wardrobe is all about ease now, chosen for comfort rather than style. It’s a big adjustment, but I’m learning that beauty isn’t just about what we wear—it’s about facing each day with courage, even when things are tough.

05/04/2024

Every morning, as the first light creeps through the curtains, I’m greeted not by the promise of a new day, but by the familiar grip of pain. Ankylosing spondylitis, a relentless companion, ensures that my awakening is not gentle but rather a jarring confrontation with pain. It’s as if my body has been forged from rust overnight, each joint protesting as I attempt to rouse myself from slumber.
The simple act of rising feels like a monumental feat, a battle waged against stiffness and soreness that seems to have woven itself into the very fibers of my being. Yet, despite the heaviness that weighs me down, there’s an unspoken understanding that I have no choice but to begin moving. Each day demands it—a relentless cycle of resilience in the face of adversity.
With each tentative step, I navigate the delicate balance between pain and perseverance. It’s a dance with invisible adversaries, where even the slightest misstep can send waves of discomfort cascading through my body. Yet, there’s a quiet determination that drives me forward, a stubborn refusal to let the limitations of my condition dictate the course of my day.
As the morning progresses and the stiffness begins to relent, there’s a sense of triumph in the small victories. Every stretch, every flexion, becomes a testament to resilience—a reminder that despite the challenges that each day may bring, I am capable of finding strength in the face of adversity.
And so, with each sunrise, I confront my reality anew, knowing that while the pain may be constant, so too is my resolve to keep moving forward. For in the quiet moments of struggle, I find a resilience that runs deeper than any ache—a reminder that even amidst the rust, there is still strength to be found.