Soothing tricks and habits?
I attended a lovely gathering online last night, a remote version of Ceilidhs (Scottish/ Irish social tradition). We listen to few turns of tunes, stories, songs or poems, then we go to breakout room to meet one another and and have a chat about a theme. One topic was about what soothes us, what we do to feel calmer, relaxed, to ease our pain (in whatever shape it manifests).
I think this is such a good question, because the focus is usually on the good treatment, the adapted therapy, the exercise that is designed to make our joints function better. And all this is useful. Yet, there's more that can be done about self care, to look after our nervous system, our mood, our mental health and general wellbeing.
What soothes me is being in nature, going for a walk, listen to the birds, and spending time with horses. Every time I do that, I go back home with a deep sense of peace.
If I need a quick fix and balance my energy level, particularly after a full on day of work, sitting in front of the computer, then I put on an upbeat tune and I dance! I shake out all the thoughts, worries, other people's energy out of my body, out of my system. It's like a quick cleansing session and I feel light and free after that.
I also shared that attending these gatherings, witnessing and sharing artistry and life experiences soothe me as it feeds my soul deeply.
What do you do then? What soothes you?
Hi
,
Love this article. I been doing the same as back to work remotely. I made a favorite play list with some upbeat music to listen to every time I need a pick me up. Just dance away love it. I also love nature and to take walks, as it brings me this peace in mind much needed.
Take care,
Nicky (Community Member)
Hi
,
This is such a great topic as I think it is so important that we do all we can to look after ourselves mentally as well as physically with conditions like these.
I love how you have found your methods of soothing yourself, the Ceilidhs part sounds very interesting - how did you get into that?
This probably sounds quite strange but I have found lately that I find it very relaxing going for walks and listening to music in languages that I don't understand. I guess not knowing what the lyrics are helps my mind go a bit blank and I can just listen to the vibe of the song.
Another thing is definitely exercise, I always feel a lot more relaxed and good about myself after getting a work out done. The only problem is that sometimes it is hard to beat the fatigue to get myself started! I would love to start doing some kind of group class but with the pandemic I'm a bit hesitant to gather with strangers. Maybe when things calm down a bit I'll give that a go too!
All the best,
James (Community Member)Hi!
Thanks for your reply and for sharing your tips 😉
I particularly like the fact that you listen to music in languages that you don't understand, that's inspiring! Among other hobbies, I sing in a Choir and every term we learn songs in different languages, I love it! The Ceilidhs are also another way to share my music with people and discover new sounds and new cultures as well. They are run by a famous Scottish artist who is also a friend of mine 😀
Now I hear you about exercise and the difficulty to get on with it when you tired. Exercising with people is key! I have been attending one of the NASS branch for exercise for the past 6 years and the sessions are great! Most groups still meet online so you could join a group and feel safe by exercising with the people on zoom. These sessions are led by physiotherapist so they are tailor made for us. Have a look at NASS website to find a group near you. I attend the London Camden one on Monday night, but there are other in London as I think this is where you are based right? If you have any question about these sessions, drop me a line.
And by the way, I have been doing the short exercise videos made by Versus Arthritis and well done for doing them! These are great.
Take care,
Julie.
I'm glad you don't think I'm weird for doing it haha! Wow that sounds amazing, what languages do you guys sing in?
I'll definitely have a look at that website, I am indeed in London too so I shall see if they run any similar events south of the river!
So pleased that you liked the videos, I hope they help you! It was a lot of fun filming them although very tiring to get them all done in the same day!Wishing you well,
James (Community Member)
