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Running away from the pain

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Fibromyalgia
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Posted 3/18/2017 12:50 AM (GMT -5)
I don't know about you guys, but I've realized I do this all the time: I don't set out to, but it's just so much easier to keep pain at bay by staying overly-busy than by stopping and having to fully feel it! I'm not talking about actual exercise or anything strenuous...mostly shopping, driving, and walking around the house bopping from one thing to another.

Right now I'm getting ready for a trip to Costa Rica. Our older daughter is getting married down there in 2 weeks, and we're very excited! So I'm going crazy trying to figure out what to bring to feel as good as possible (and I don't have to tell you how hard that is!) Pillows, pills, gel icepacs, a reacher, and on and on. But there's also the need to pare down as much as possible, and hopefully not have to check a bag.

My natural proclivity has always been to get things done by physically throwing myself into them, rather than thinking about them in a vacuum. Fibro has really cramped my style in this - I can't just spontaneously do things like I used to. Of course, none of us can.

But I really think the impulse to escape the pain is a strong motivator, too. I can put it on the back burner a bit if I'm out and about - being distracted, I guess.

What do you think?

Debbie
Posted 3/18/2017 7:14 AM (GMT -5)
Debbie, I agree but I don't call it running away from pain. I call it focusing on other things. It does work! The pain fades somewhat in the background because you aren't thinking about it. You are more preoccupied. It can become a habit and I now can ignore most discomfort. Our minds are a powerful thing!

When I traveled a lot I bought a Back Booster pillow. It comes in a small pouch that easily fits in your purse but four good breaths will blow this up into a lumbar support pillow. You might only need the support three breaths gives so this is adjustable to your type of back pain. I used this on flights, busses, etc. I checked it out a moment ago and there were quite a few "reviews" saying it started leaking but I bet these people didn't use the plug correctly and make sure it was securely in because I've had my pillow for over ten years and used it many times with absolutely no problems. (I can't begin to tell you about various negative reviews where people, who have written about products, didn't follow directions!). But this is a perfect pillow to take for your back. So this is an idea for you. You could request the fastest shipping.

You will love Costa Rica. I was there a few years back and it is quite beautiful. Enjoy yourself and have a wonderful trip and a spectacular wedding!

Sherrine
Posted 3/19/2017 12:13 AM (GMT -5)
Thanks, Sherrine! I'll definitely have to check out that pillow.

I feel like I'm running in circles, but very slowly I'm starting to get things decided.

You know, I haven't talked to one person who's gone who hasn't raved about Costa Rica. My hubby is ready to retire there, and he hasn't even seen it! A big thing for him is the fact that his retirement would go further...

Debbie
Posted 3/19/2017 8:51 PM (GMT -5)
One thing i would never travel without is a topical pain reliever..

Pain erase comes in a purse size..its awesome..

Very exciting wedding plans..😊 we had so much fun helping our kids plan their weddings.. We turned each step into a family event and had so much fun!!

Hope your family has a fabulous time !!! Lj
Posted 3/23/2017 11:49 PM (GMT -5)
Ljm,

Actually, funny you should mention a topical pain reliever - I very much depend on slinging a gel ice pack on my butt for the burning pain I get every time I lie down, and am planning to pack it in my checked bag. Who knows whether I'll have access to a freezer, though, so what you said interests me.

I'll have to check out Pain erase.

Thank you! Yes, it should be a great time smile

Debbie
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