Ahh, just to lean back in a comfy chair, book in hand- all's well with the world.....relax, nod off to sleep , feel the warmth of the warm summery day. Not a care in the world. So it would be in our utopia! Our Higher Power at the helm, there would be no pain, no discomfort, no loss of energy...utter contentment.
The bubble bursts too soon for each of us. Just how do we relax? As time allows, more will be added .....until then PEACE to each and everyone.
It seems that as time passes, more and more doctors are joining different "managed care" companies. As this happens, many times in order to be cost effective, a doctor may have to make cost effective decisions. In so doing no doubt many of us may suffer because the doctor has to be able to manage CARE (meaning not necessarily a health condition or illness). It is important to find a doctor that will be able to help, but it is also important to be able to help yourself.
One way each of us can help ourselves is through learning to relax. We live in a fast-paced society. Much is expected of us both physically and mentally. For the sake of our own health we must learn to think of our own wellbeing first, taking steps to assure that we don't bring on further pain. Take a look at your lifestyle. If necessary, even write down what you are doing for several days - even a week. The time comes when any of us would have to decide just how important some aspects of our daily lives are to us. How can we effectively change them to allow more time for rest (or less stress). Surely by now you have learned or noticed that when the pain is the worst you are exhausted.
Day one in the pain clinic; lesson one: Do not dwell on any physical symptoms of pain. They will always be there. Do learn to focus on living as normal life as possible - become a person, not a patient.
There are many ways of learning to relax and lead less stressful lives. One of your greatest comforts is a friend or acquaintance to whom you can talk freely about pain and the way it controls your life. Speaking out loud about yourself (not with pity) helps to begin a healing process. Look for good relaxation audiotapes to relieve the pain and stress. Soft, flowing music is good to listen to as you rest. Exercise actually takes away the pain. With doctor's approval look for classes geared for your type needs. I find my best mode of exercise is in the water if it is not too cold. It takes all pressure off the tender joints.
Try making a contract with yourself. One that you will stick with and carry out the things that you pledge to do!
For example:
I PLEDGE THAT THIS WEEK I WILL:
*****Eat nutritious foods according to my diet plan.
*****Eat three meals each day.
*****Avoid snacks unless they are in the planned diet and a part of it for the day.
*****Eat all food slowly, savoring the taste of each food.
*****Eat in a special "eating place" each time. That means away from the TV, reading, etc.
*****Eat because you are hungry. Do not eat to relieve stress, anger, or boredom.
*****Exercise regularly.
*****Keep a positive self image of yourself.
Of course the contract does not have to be about food. It may be about other aspects of your lifestyle. Something that may be increasing your stress.Something NOt to feel guilty about!
Once you are able to assert yourself and take control of situations, it is easier to be relaxed. The stress is less and you realize just maybe you feel a little better than before.
Then at the end of the week chose a special reward for keeping the contract. Something that you really enjoy.
Or, what is the penalty for slipping?
