Pastimes

[sylvi]

I'm looking for something to do that will keep me interested. My hands have ra in them and i can't stand or walk for long. Any ideas please.

Sylvia

[Beeper]

Hi

Beeper here I find a good book or a film helps me. I have a scooter which gets me to the pub. I write poems and would like to write a book. I have started to write down my life story, I'm not famous or anything so you may say why both. But I found when you sit down a type all be it one fingered my hands are bad too that there are a great deal of things I haven't told my children just because I haven't go round to it or thought it was unimportant. But when they have read my first few chapters they were amazed what it was like when I grew up and they simple things we did then.

Hope this helps.

Beeper

[Hidden]

well blogging on here an option.. tai chi quite gentle and good for arthritis and relation. go to college do french conversation or painting or whatever you fancy.. evening class?.. or if you dont work may be a day course? x

[sylvi]

My college is in nuneaton,as i don't drive at moment can't get there.I have trouble holding a book and the concentration at moment is shot to bits. Painting is not a bad idea though. Will have to think about that.

Thanks. x

[Hidden]

How about local pool water aerobics.. or village hall tai chi .I battle with concentration.. potentially dangerous in my job and hand pain and fatigue! so work part time

[cathie]

I've taken up art, mainly drawing and painting. If your hands are well enough to hold a pencil or stick of charcoal it's a really good way of getting the mist out of life. Just looking and seeing more in things than you thought.

There's an iPhone/pad application called brushes which just involves using your finger to draw so you don't need to hold anything if you can put the phone on a suitable surface. You can email yourself the finished masterpieces and print them out.

I'd also really recommend a gentle form of tai chi. There's even a DVd tai chi for arthritis.

Good luck

[AMDP]

Hi Sylvi, I am an artist and I have had to change my technique somewhat to accommodate this horrible disease. One thing I would recommend is photography. You can take photos at home, from a park bench anywhere and it gives you a reason and excuse to get out and about a bit. You could also manipulate the photos on your computer and then have them printed on to canvas which would make great presents and or decorate your own home.

All the best, Ax

[sylvi in reply to AMDP]

Thanks for that. Thats one i hadn't thought about. I will give that one some consideration.

Sylvia.x

[Hidden]

I am considering looking at a short college course but one that can be flexible due to me being so up and down don't want something that I can't pick back up on quickly if I miss a week x

[Hidden]

Hi Sylvi

I started doing Pilates shortly after being diagnosed which is gentle and a good teacher understands limits of RA - this has helped me feel as though I am back in charge of my body (well as least to some extent). I also potter in the garden and walk when I can as I find being outside is better for me mentally. Neither need much concentration either which I agree reading does when your full of pain and drugs.

Good luck with finding something that suits. x

[Hidden]

I have been doing some tapestry using a plastic type of AIDA and wool. You can get it in many hobby shops. I found the exercise has helped my hands, but you need to build up slowly. If the concentration is poor ( been there) start with magazines.

Sorry can't be more help

take care Sue x.

[juliep]

I also have it in my hands but despite that i have just completed a cake decorating level 1 course and i passed with 2 credits and a distinction so was thoroughly chuffed. I found it very theraputic so maybe that could be something for you to do too. Good luck with whatever you choose. Jules x