Little hello

[Bigbangnerd]

Hey

After a few down days I finally signed up for the forum. Hope everyone is safe and well during these tough times.

Life is a little stressful and just looking to find alternative ways to cope.

N x

[PainConcernProjects Partner]

Hi Bigbangnerd, welcome to the GGC PMP forum.

I think life has been a bit stressful for everybody recently, but hopefully you'll find people to help support you and vice versa here. If you have any questions about how to use the forum, then just ask, also have a look a the pinned posts as they should help to get you started.

The forum has been quite quiet recently due to Covid but it's good to see some new members joining and engaging.

[Fibroska]

Hi Bigbangnerd,

Firstly well done in taking the plunge, i know it's daunting(I had nothing to do with social media before this year, It has been awesome for me) but being on here, you know people can really empathise, they may not have the exact issues that you are dealing with, but we are all dealing with chronic pain/chronic fatigue, so believe, you will be understood; You are not alone.

Whether you have a query or just want to off load, this is the place for you.

So do you have a Fav. (Your name)? i change my mind every episode, I quite like "Burt"; would like to get to know him.

I am in no way medically qualified, so everything I share will be my opinion, or from my own personal research.

Personally what get's me through is: Breathing, Positivity, Mindfulness, Guided Meditation, Pacing Activities, Doing something enjoyable every single day(even if it means this is the only activity you are able to do in the day), focusing on ones values and setting Smart Goals; using temperature and bathing with Epsom Salts/Hydrotherapy to ease symptoms as well as spending time with friends and family really helps get me through.

Remember and communicate to those around you as to how you are feeling, people don't always know, but if they do, they can be more supportive of you.

I am quite an artsy/crafty person and just recently I was reintroduced to “Painting by Numbers”, I found this thoroughly relaxing and enjoyable(especially throughout a Flare Up), I think because you don't have the conundrum of which colours to put where, you are able to totally enjoy the experience.

You will find Guided Meditation for Stress Relief on 'You Tube', i'd suggest trying a short one to begin with, see if it is your cup of tea; sometimes it will take a few, to find someones delivery/voice that you like.

You might also want to look into CBT, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy; supposedly good for stress related issues.

I hope this has been of some use for you, sorry, I do tend to waffle; I am sure you will receive some wonderful support/advice from the fantastic people on here.

Remember and be kind to yourself.

Stay safe, keep well and be strong.

[Bigbangnerd in reply to Fibroska]

Hi Fibroska,

Thank you for the warm welcome and amazing advice, I follow some, others I will definitely explore further. I’m in middle of a flare up and sometimes get the sabotage head on, my friend helps pull me out of it. I like your idea of doing something you enjoy every day, will need to get my thinking cap on.

I love the Big Bang, I can have it on as background noise and focus in when I need a little distraction. I do love Amy as she progresses so well as a character. Tv and radio can frustrate me with the adverts so I can have this on and still be productive.

I recently been colouring in, this is a new thing that I’ve started as a way of helping. It’s enjoyable and I would like to explore my creative side more.

Lockdown has been different for me as my main support has had to shield. This has meant I’ve had to help with shopping etc and support my mum. It’s been good as it’s helped increase my activity however this has came with increased pain. Initially adrenaline had kept me going, just trying To take it day by day and pace but it’s had it’s challenges.

I recently found mindfulness on the Apple Music on my phone which was quite good. I’ve used the ones on you tube as well.

Great that your getting the most out of social media. It can be very good for connecting with people.

Hope to catch up again soon. Stay safe x

[Db74 Moderator]

Hey, welcome to the group👋. It's been a bit slow lately but it's always good to have new members on board.

[Bigbangnerd in reply to Db74]

Thank you, it’s been a good resource to tap into when things get on top me me.