Shake It Off: How Taylor Swift’s Music Helps Me Fight Lyme Disease

Finding Strength in Taylor Swift's Music: My Journey with Lyme Disease  

Living with Lyme disease is like walking through life with weights strapped to your body and an ever-present cloud over your mind. The constant fatigue, pain, and mental struggle can make even the smallest tasks feel like mountains to climb. In the midst of this, I’ve found an unexpected ally: Taylor Swift. Her music has been my constant companion, my motivator, and my source of positivity through some of the darkest days of my journey with Lyme. 

"Shake It Off": Fighting the Physical Challenges with Movement 

One of the biggest battles with Lyme disease is staying physically active. On bad days, getting out of bed feels impossible, let alone finding the energy to exercise. But exercise is crucial—it keeps my body moving, helps reduce pain, and keeps my spirits up. This is where Taylor’s music comes in, particularly upbeat anthems like Shake It Off, ...Ready For It?, and You Belong With Me. Her songs fill my room with energy, and suddenly, moving my body feels a little bit easier. 

When I hear those beats and her confident lyrics, it’s like she’s cheering me on, pushing me to keep going. Her songs are more than just background music; they’re a soundtrack to resilience. Each song motivates me to get up, go outside, and push through the barriers that Lyme disease puts in front of me. 

"You Need to Calm Down": Finding Peace in the Lyrics 

One of the hardest parts of living with a chronic illness is managing the mental and emotional toll it takes. Anxiety, frustration, and even hopelessness are constant companions. But Taylor’s lyrics often remind me that it’s okay to pause, breathe, and take things one step at a time. Her lyrics in songs like You Need to Calm Down or Clean remind me to stay grounded and positive, even on the hardest days. 

When I’m feeling overwhelmed or anxious, these lyrics remind me to slow down, take a breath, and reset. Taylor has a way of putting complex emotions into simple phrases that just click. Hearing her words feels like having a friend who understands the struggle and knows just what to say to lift me up. 

"22" and Finding Joy in the Little Things 

One of the greatest gifts Taylor’s music has given me is the ability to find joy in the small moments. Songs like 22, Style, and Starlight are like mini celebrations of life. They remind me that, despite the challenges of Lyme disease, there are still moments of happiness, fun, and laughter to be had. When I listen to 22, I let myself forget about the pain —if only for a moment—and I just let myself feel young, free, and alive. 

These upbeat tracks help me escape the weight of my illness. Whether I’m dancing around my room or singing along in my car, they remind me that life is still beautiful, that joy is still possible, and that I’m still here. 

Taylor Swift’s Music as a Lifeline 

Taylor Swift’s music has been more than just entertainment for me—it’s been a lifeline. Her songs motivate me to keep moving, her lyrics remind me to stay positive, and her upbeat tracks give me moments of pure joy, even when things feel bleak. Living with Lyme disease is a constant challenge, but with Taylor’s music in my ears, I feel like I have a friend by my side, pushing me forward and reminding me that I am stronger than this illness. 

Thank you, Taylor, for being my inspiration and helping me find the strength to keep going. For anyone out there who might be struggling—whether it’s with Lyme, another illness, or just the challenges of life—don’t underestimate the power of music. It can be a source of strength, hope, and even joy.

For me, Taylor Swift’s songs are exactly that, and I am endlessly grateful for it.