Stress is a killer

I have to aggree with you!

Stress aggrevates my fibro along with my other conditions...it is so important for me to keep my stress level down...I don't need the added adrenaline or cortisol corsing through my bloodstream.

I know most of you must be sick of me talking about relaxation therapy...deep breathing, meditation and visualization...but it does work. ...it helps improve circulation, reduces muscle tension and helps calm the body...it also helps lower my anxiety.

Going for a walk or soaking in the tub helps too.  Taking relaxation breaks has helped with my pain levels...and that a great thing!

Hugs, Robin

Yes, yes. I am learning to say no and am focusing on taking care of myself. Much of the pain, I am experiencing is exacerbated by my stress.

Yesterday was just a fount of bad moments at work, which all just stressed me out. When I got home, my muscles were knotted, my jaw was flaming, my head was pounding, and, though fatigued, couldn't sit still.

All due to stress. I sat down, did some deep breathing, and took a stronger than usual painkiller, and watched a movie. I still had some trouble getting to sleep but finally managed...

Myself,

Thanks for the reminder. This is SO true. Since my surgery in March, I'm very aware of stupid mistakes (like tripping over things) that happen when I don't take the time to do things in a mindful way.

My most consistent stressor is not allowing enough time to get ready and drive places. I feel like that Joni Mitchell song, "...always running behind the time..." It's a lifelong problem...both of my parents were the same way. I used to try half-seriously to blame it on them, but when I got to be about 35, my mom informed me (rightfully so) that the statute of limitations had run out :)

I just suck at time, and don't know how to cure it.

Talk about stress - I'll bet it's taken 5 years off my life! Even going on a plane trip, I'll get every blasted 3-oz bottle ready days ahead, every detail planned to the last nanosecond, and yet I'm rushing around at the end to get out the door on time.

I'm glad you finally got over your stressful day and got to sleep.

Debbie

Thanks, all, for your thoughts.

Today has been an easier day, for the most part. I made some appointments, and am looking forward (I Guess) to seeing the big rheumie in the big city hospital on Monday morning! I have been waiting for this appointment for almost nine months, so am ready to get in there and see what she has to say. I fired my rheumie here and refused my PCP's request to go back to her, until she finally agreed to send me on to the big guns.

The biggest residual from yesterday's flare/stress is my TMJ. My jaw gets really tight in meetings... and then I have a hard time letting the tension go. Some sounds today are a bit slurred because of it.