Flares and Chronic Pain

The recent flare was gone…

As I opened my eyes this morning, I knew the recent flare was gone. The low burning and ache that is always with me was still there, but the last three day’s assault to my body and psyche had dissipated.

It started three days ago. First the splotchy itchy arms, elbows and knees. Second the nausea set in. Third the pins and needles in my arms. Fourth the “oh crap” feeling. This is how Rheumatoid arthritis shows up for me.

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On days where I feel I might vomit at any moment, you will find me in the kitchen washing veggies, chopping, stirring, flavoring and cooking. I send all of my attention to the food and relish in the delight that my husband and son will feel when they taste my latest concoction.

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Those of us with chronic pain usually have times that are worse than others. We need the things that turn our focus away from our aches of the moment.

What helps dissipate your pain during flares?

Have you found yours? Make sure it is something that you have easy access to and that you like. You might garden, knit, cook, watch movies, read, talk with others, breath work, or meditation/mindfulness. The trick is that you are well-practiced in this and it brings you joy.

For a list of ideas, check out my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/thrivewithchronicpain/

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Gail Sinclair, MHt, CNC is a hypnotherapist who helps those living with chronic pain go from discomfort to thriving by using hypnosis, pain management tools and resources.

She is a Master Hypnotherapist, Nutritional Consultant, and a Reiki Master Teacher. She has over 20 years in healing work and is an international award-winning speaker.

Gail lives in Portland, OR with her delightful husband, son, and cat. She can be found cooking, knitting, writing, and figuring out new ways to thrive with Trigeminal, and Occipital Neuralgia.

You can reach her gailthriveswithchronicpain@gmail.com.