life turned upside down!

[Calchick]

learning how to adjust to living with chronic pain and autoimmune disease doesn’t always have to be negative. I have been suffering for over 5 year and at some times thought I was going mad.

I could not believe the relief of getting a diagnosis it was such a relief to know I was dealing with autoimmune issues at least now I had a direction in which I could best help myself.

One of the most enlightening developments for me has been to enjoy a slower paced lifestyle and learning how to not get wrapped up in unnecessary tasks. My mornings used to be like lightening and now are such a better way to start the day. Looking back I think I was in fight or flight mode from the moment I woke. This probably caused my body immeasurable stress on a regular basis. These days I wake up and take notice I am here to enjoy my life and the world I live in. As a rule I always make time to enjoy a coffee first thing every day.

I have recently been exploring different breathing techniques which is not as easy as it sounds it takes discipline and practice on a regular basis. This is my main way of getting pain relief.

[CagneysMum]

I can so identify with your post and agree about the importance of taking time to slow down and actually listen to your body. Then you can start to better control some elements of your body like breathing to help manage pain. Yoga and meditation helped me so much with this. Unfortunately floor exercise are no longer an option for me (dodgy RA knees) but I have recently found a great seated yoga class locally.

I’m fortunate that my RA is well controlled for now but yoga still helps me be more mindful in my daily life. Good look with your journey 👍