Stress affects me severely. It affects my muscles and my memory. My muscles tense up and cause more pain. My brain turns to mush and I cannot remember things.  Everything is magnified.

How do I deal with stress? I go outside, weather permitting, and sit on my patio first and watch nature. I let my mind drift and think of positive things. I force myself to watch the birds, the clouds, the leaves of the trees and sometimes I close my eyes and just listen. I do deep breathing. 

I then walk. Sometimes I just walk around my property. Sometimes I take a walk. While walking I notice things on the way such as people, nature, etc. Exercise helps with pain provided I do not overdo it.

During times of stress I limit the noise in my home. I will turn off the TV or radio. The quiet soothes my stress and calms my soul.

If my stress is caused by a situation due to procrastination, then I jump in and make myself complete the job or situation. I face it head on and complete it and thus have eliminated the stress. 

My animals help with stress. Playing ball with my dogs or just petting my cats. These are great stress relievers for me.

Leaving the place of the stress helps me. Since I am home all the time, a drive in the car somewhere helps. It can be just a sightseeing adventure or shopping. I live in the mountains so getting out of the house and around civilization sometimes helps me.

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This article was originally published in FMOnline. This free online newsletter is only available to registered members. Click here to register!
 
View other articles in vol. 8, no. 12 of FMOnline:
 
In the Spotlight
Stop and Smell the Roses
Anti-Stress Tips
Fibromyalgia and Meditation
The Stress-Relief Schedule
Stress Management Techniques
Easing Stress
Calm Down--Listen Up

In the News
Watch Out for FDA Impersonators
Health Benefits on the Job
Author Seeks Interview Subjects
 
NFA News
Vol. 18 of Fibromyalgia AWARE Available
Beat the Holiday Crowds--Support the NFA
Johns Hopkins and NFA Launch FM Educational Initiative
Website Highlights

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