In this post
Living with and finding ways to manage chronic pain can be really difficult. But there are ways to make it easier.
I am writing from a place of experience. Read my pain journey here.
My condition is rare and if I can find ways to cope, I want to share them with you.
Learning how to cope with pain can help you feel better and live a fuller life.
Here are the top 5 skills you need to help manage chronic pain.
Enjoy and don’t forget to comment at the end, I love hearing from you and subscribe to get access to FREE printables, newsletters, the latest posts and more.
How to Do It:
– Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.
– Close your eyes and take a slow, deep breath through your nose.
– Hold the breath for a moment, then slowly breathe out through your mouth.
– Repeat this a few times until you feel more relaxed.
1. Deep Breathing
I bet you have heard this more times than you can count. However, our breath really is our best tool to manage chronic pain.
Deep breathing is a simple way to help calm your body and mind.
When you feel pain, your muscles might tense up, which can make the pain worse. As I often find, your muscles will also tense when you laugh, watch an exciting film or even read a book.
Deep breathing helps relax your muscles and can ease the pain.
I prefer meditation but you can do this in whatever way works for you.
Read How to use meditation to feel better when in pain.
Read Beautiful meditation for sleep and pain relief.
Try this FREE app, it is my go-to and I have used it for a long time.
2. Staying Positive
There will be days when you are more positive than others. This is okay and very understandable.
It’s easy to feel down when you’re in pain, especially in a flare-up.
Take a look at my Flare-up post for more.
Positive thinking can help you focus on the good things in your life instead of just the pain.
For me, the hardest time to be positive is at bedtimes and in a flare-up.
When is your hardest time? Maybe make a note.
I created a pain journal which has become my best friend and I urge you to use it too.
I am sharing this with you so that you too can gain more information about yourself and reduce your pain levels.
How to Do It:
– Think about things that make you happy, like a favourite hobby or spending time with loved ones.
– Try to find something to be grateful for every day, no matter how small.
– Remind yourself that you are strong and can handle tough times.
How to Do It:
– Plan your day with rest breaks in between activities.
– Don’t push yourself too hard, even if you feel okay.
– Spread out your tasks over several days instead of doing them all at once.
3. Pacing Yourself
This took me more time to learn than I care to admit. However, this has made my life so much easier!
Sometimes, when you’re having a good day, you might feel like doing a lot of activities. I know I do but how long can you keep it up?
If you do too much, it can make your pain worse later. Does this sound like you?
Not to worry, like I said, I did the same thing for many years.
Pacing yourself means doing a little bit at a time and taking breaks when you need them.
4. Getting Support
You don’t have to go through chronic pain alone.
I know it feels like you are alone and no one really understands what you are going through.
I feel the same way sometimes and it is true.
Talking to others who understand what you’re going through can help you feel better.
Whether it’s family, friends, or a support group, having people to talk to can make coping easier.
Try things like CBT. Perhaps talking about different medications to your doctor or pain management team.
Acupuncture, Massage therapy, Steroid treatments and hot or cold therapy.
There are lots of things to try.
It doesn’t always mean they will work but never give up trying to reduce your pain levels.
How to Do It:
– Share your feelings with someone you trust.
– Join a support group where you can meet others with chronic pain.
– Ask for help when you need it, whether it’s with chores or just someone to talk to.
How to Do It:
– Start with simple exercises like walking, stretching, or yoga.
– Do activities that you enjoy, like swimming or dancing.
– Listen to your body and don’t overdo it. It’s okay to take it slow.
5. Staying Active
It might seem hard to exercise when you’re in pain, but gentle movement can actually help.
Staying active can keep your body strong, reduce stiffness, and even improve your mood.
It’s not always that simple though, is it?
My favourite is swimming and pilates.
What helps you? Leave me a comment.
Try walking, yoga or Tia chi.
Bee's Final Thoughts
To manage chronic pain isn’t easy, but with these skills, you can make it a little bit easier.
Remember to breathe deeply, stay positive, pace yourself, get support, and stay active.
With practice, these skills can help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life.
We are not destined to spend our lives miserable because we cannot do the things we used to do.
Being grateful for the things and people in my life makes me rich. Cheesy, I know.
I have two beautiful girls and a loving husband. Together we can do anything and so can you!
Thank you for reading.
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The person behind it all
I am a Mumma of three, a Wife, a Home Educator, a Blogger and lastly a Chronic Pain Sufferer.
The most common questions I get asked are “How do I get my hair curly, is it natural?” “
“How are you so organised?”
“You must be really smart to educate your children, are you a teacher?”
and lastly “What is CRPS?”
I have suffered from chronic pain since the age of 10, it has been a daily struggle ever since.
I know thousands of people suffer as I do and I want to share what helps me and my expertise in CRPS, chronic pain and more.
So, I started this blog to share my answers to those questions, journey and experiences with you. I have always been passionate about health, personal growth, and creating a balanced lifestyle for myself and my family.
Searching for ways to enjoy life in a minimalistic way, be part of my children’s education and reduce stress and pain as a whole is important to me.
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