Stress Management what’s best for you?

[jenniferBSc]

Beyond the yoga, breathing techniques and mindfulness that seem to be trending these days, I’m interested in how people with chronic illness like MCAD EDS & PoTs (and others) cope with stress that is such a big precursor and trigger of flares for us all? I sometimes listen to music as a temporary distraction, but it’s really difficult not to think about illness when it effects your quality of life, so apart from hoping for better days when we feel more in control of the symptoms what do you all do? TIA

[Jess-UKMasto Partner]

That's a great question. I'm a patient (as well as helping lead The UK Mastocytosis Support Group) which means that I'm thinking about the condition during my workday as well-- something that can sometimes add to my stress. My own strategies are to meditate, do brief breathing exercises (slow breaths in through my nose and out through my mouth seem to work best-- hate "box" breathing) when I notice my shoulders are up around my ears from tension, distraction with reading or a podcast or audiobook (particularly helpful during other mindless activity like tidying up and laundry folding if my thoughts are unwelcome). I also was lucky and had the chance to speak with a counselor back in the early years after my diagnosis, and that gave me some tools as well. (It's been 30 years now.) I think some of the techniques used in cognitive behavioural therapy can be accessible to people even without a therapist, and can be a help in managing unproductive thinking. (That wasn't a common approach back 30 years ago but it could have been helpful!) I hope some others will chime in!

[JW50]

Hi, I'm very lucky as I have dogs and horses which I've found to be amazing stress relievers. After a nightmare day at work the last thing I feel like doing this time of year is heading back out in the dark but I genuinely believe it keeps me sane. The right clothing is very important as extreme temperatures (hot or cold) and windy/ stormy conditions upset my MCAS but the exercise keeps me strong so reduces HEDS problems. Having high energy dogs helps as they don't let you slack off, I'm a German Shepherd fan x

[jenniferBSc in reply to JW50]

Wonderful, horse riding must be great for core strength. I have a dachshund and she feels like therapy for me, I cover my loungewear / pyjamas with a long coat and take her for short walks

[Irene3a]

I like to listen to the 'sleepcasts' on the headspace app