Every day is a struggle but then again every day is a victory. It may not feel like it or even look like it when you’re going through it but if you’re waking up for another new day, you’re winning.
Chronic pain may be intermittent or may be ongoing. Either way the effects of chronic pain are exhausting to say the least. Feeling depressed and isolated is quite common but believe me, you’re not alone.
In fact the CDC reviewed the 2016 National Health Interview Survey, which includes responses from more than 17,000 adults, and found that 1 in 5 Americans, or about 50 million people, suffer from chronic pain. Of those, 8%, or about 19.6 million, suffer from pain that interferes with their daily lives.
Living with chronic pain has a significant impact on your mood, your appetite and eating habits and it certainly impacts your level activity as well as your motivation to be healthy.
You have to fight for the best possible quality of life that you can attain because while you’re fighting for that better quality of life you’re actively living life itself.
As a chronic pain sufferer myself I know that there’s no magic bullet, rather there’s only moments of relief if you’re lucky. As someone who chooses to avoid pain relieving prescription drugs I rely heavily upon these five natural interventions.
ONE… I exercise. I do so as regularly as possible to the extent that I can without making things worse.
TWO… I reasonably pace myself. Whether it’s exercise, traveling or any activity I know my limits and I honor them. Like a veteran athlete, I play it smart by making wise choices.
THREE… I eat as healthy as I can. Food impacts mood and that’s a fact. Food also impacts the efficacy of meds that you may be taking. Do not underestimate the power of food and what I can do for you and the quality of your life.
FOUR… I created a maintenance routine. I know what makes me feel better and what helps me cope. It took some time but I found a great massage therapist and I go for a massage once every two weeks. I found stretches that I like and I stretch every night before bed. I spend at least 15 to 20 minutes in the sun just about every day.
FIVE… I feed my mind. The power of positivity can’t be overstated. I read and listen to music and things that motivate me, things that give me those good vibes.
These five strategies may work for you as is. More importantly I hope you’ll search and never stop looking for a better way everyday.
