Stress.
No matter who you are or what you do, it’s a part of day to day life.
And, unfortunately, it can make chronic pain worse.
Even though it is unlikely that you’ll ever get rid of all your stress, there are things you can do to help manage it.
Unplug
Take some time away from screens every day. TV’s, computers, phones – all of it. Even just for 15 minutes.
Do nothing. Let your mind wander.
Maybe you’ll get bored.
Maybe you’ll feel peaceful.
Try it and find out.
Exercise
Nothing strenuous.
Gentle stretching or rehab exercises could help.
Or spend some time learning yoga or tai chi.
Really, any form of movement could do wonders in terms of helping you relax those tight muscles.
Write It Out
Sometimes getting all your worries out of your head and onto paper is enough to make you feel tons better.
Talk It Through
Sharing your problems with a trusted friend, partner, or therapist can help you get things off your chest.
And even though it might seem weird, remember that pets can be good listeners too!
Meditate
Sit. Meditate.
Breathe.
Escape
Lose yourself in a book, movie, or video game.
These can be great options for leaving your worries behind, at least for a little while.
Connect with Nature
Go outside.
Watch the clouds roll by. Enjoy the sun, the breeze.
Take off your shoes and walk through the grass or get your hands in the dirt with a little light gardening.
If going outside isn’t an option, that’s ok.
Take a nap in a patch of sunshine. Listen to the rain fall.
Hopefully just reading this was enough to help you unwind a little. But if not, choose one suggestion from this post and give it a shot, even if only for a few minutes.
It’ll help.
