Chair Exercises Tape

Living With Fibromyalgia

I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia almost 9 years ago. It was both a blessing and a curse. I was glad to be able to put a name to the myriad of symptoms I was having, but I knew from that moment, that my life would never be the same again.

It’s been a long journey and I’ve learned a lot since that time. I’d like to share with you a few things in the hopes that it will make you feel less alone or just to know someone understands.

· Trust your instincts. Don’t let a doctor tell you it’s all in your head, you’re depressed, just an overworked mother, or anything else you may be told when your symptoms can’t be explained. It may take years to get a diagnosis, but keep searching until you find a doctor that listens to you. There is no scientific test to determine this condition. It is a chronic condition that is generally diagnosed by ruling out all other conditions such as arthritis, lupus, Multiple Sclerosis or Lyme Disease. I was lucky enough to find a wonderful doctor who leaves no stone unturned. He takes everything I have to say seriously and has found things other doctors have missed. Find one you trust. He can be your greatest ally should you find yourself fighting for disability.

· Depression is a normal part of Fibromyalgia. It’s hard to be positive when your life has changed in ways you never imagined. The fatigue can be overwhelming, you hurt in places you didn’t know you had, and you may lose interest in things you once enjoyed. Falling or staying asleep is also part of the symptoms. You wake up feeling just as tired as when you went to bed. You may also find you struggle to concentrate. Who wouldn’t be depressed? It’s a vicious cycle that seems to never end.

· Expect to have feelings of worthlessness or a sense of loss for the person you used to be. If, like me, you are unable to work, you may also experience a loss of identity or self-worth. I loved my job and took pride in my work. Without that, I felt I had no focus and felt a huge sense of loss. This also put a big strain on our finances because my income was reduced by more than half. I was now not only too tired to do anything, but felt like I had failed my family.

· You will lose some friends. There are no outward, visible signs of Fibromyalgia, other than the bags under your eyes, so it’s hard for people to understand. I stopped making plans because I had no idea what I would feel like from day to day. I cancelled so often that friends just stopped asking. I looked perfectly normal. I still got dressed and put on make-up just to feel like I was still in the land of the living, and because I looked fine, I was told I was just lazy, depressed, or to snap out of it. Friends like this, I didn’t need! I have a few that are very supportive and understanding. If I cancel plans, they know I’m having a bad day and it’s nothing personal. Hang onto them. You need a support system. Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty and don’t beat yourself up for something you have no control over. You didn’t ask for this.

· Exercise. I know. You’re thinking “are you kidding? I can’t even move.” Believe me, I feel your pain. I resisted for years and only felt worse. Even a few minutes of walking outdoors will do you a world of good. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the birds chirp, and feel the sun on your face. Visualize your body getting stronger. There are exercises geared for people with this condition that can be done in a chair. Find some books or tapes at the library to see which you like. Give it a chance. The first few days or weeks you will feel sore and tired, but I promise if you keep it up you will feel so much better. The best thing I ever did was to join Curves. The program is only ½ an hour, no exercise is too repetitive, and you can choose not to do ones that may be difficult. This also gives you a chance to meet other women. After going for 2 weeks, I was hooked. I started to have more energy, sleep better and most of all I wasn’t as stiff or have as much pain as I did before. When I didn’t go for a few days, I could feel the pain and tension returning. It felt so good to have control over some part of my body. The longer I went, the better I felt. My family noticed a big difference in my attitude and self-confidence. Do it for yourself. You deserve it.

· Join a support group or go for counseling. I did both. It helps to speak with others you can identify with how you are feeling. Friends and family try to be supportive, but unless they have something similar, they have a hard time relating. I made some great friendships and got good advice. It’s also where I found the doctor that has helped me so much. Many groups have guest speakers on many subjects and it gives you a safe environment to express your feelings.

· Find a creative outlet or something you truly enjoy or have always wanted to do and give it a try. Don’t just sit in the house and wallow in self-pity. That gets old, and pretty soon even you don’t want to be around you. There’s not much to say when you do nothing all day besides watch television. Think about something you enjoyed as a child or something you’ve had no time for before. Join a book club, write, paint, take a dance or cooking class. Volunteer, or learn a new language. Whatever it is, do it just for you. It will take the focus off your problems and keep you from defining who you are by your condition, because you are so much more than that. Find your passion in life again. I started working from home at something I love and it has made such a difference in my life. It gives me a focus, connects me with people, brings me joy, and a feeling of accomplishment. I feel good knowing I can make a difference in people’s lives. My family and friends have noticed the change. I’m so much happier. Don’t you deserve to be?

I hope one of these tips has motivated you to get some help, find a support group, and make some changes in your life. If I’ve helped one person to feel someone understands or inspired you to change you life and find some passion again, then I will feel like I’ve achieved my goal. I hope I’ve touched your life in some way. I’ve been where you are and hope and happiness are there if your open your heart to them.

I wish you peace, joy, happiness and above all health.

About the Author

Angela Thompson has been the owner of a cleaning company, a Realtor and has been involved in several Networking Marketing and home-based businesses. She and her daughter are currently successful independent distributors and coaches for Mia Bella Gourmet Soy Candles. Their goal is to help others achieve their dreams, reach their goals, and have choices in life. Read their story at http://www.4TheLoveofSoy.com

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