Getting good rest and relaxation is very important for those with chronic conditions as it allows your body to recuperate and your mind to heal. Resting while scrutinising the day is counterproductive, and that is why using visualisation techniques, breathing exercises, meditation or mindfulness can be helpful, but do your own research and work out what is best for you. Often complimentary medicine such as rest techniques are a useful way to help quiet the mind and rest the body and any additional benefit you get from the practice is a bonus.
There are many articles and mobile apps that you could use, below are a few useful techniques with links to websites. It might also be wise to talk to your health professional.
Visualisation techniques have been found to be helpful in reducing stress. Thinking about something relaxing could help with feeling more relaxed.
For more information see:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/imperfect-spirituality/201206/imagine-life-without-pain
Breathing exercises can help with becoming more relaxed. Controlling breathing has been found to influence heartbeat and so could help improve relaxation.
For more information see:
Meditation has been shown to be calming. For a person with a racing mind it can be hard to fathom slowing it down, but there are many types so you may be able to find one that’s useful for you.
For more information see:
https://soundcloud.com/painhealthau/painhealth-relaxation-exercise
https://www.headspace.com/blog/2017/04/07/headspace-for-chronic-pain/
https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/types-of-meditation#focused-meditation
https://paindoctor.com/meditation-for-chronic-pain/
Mindfulness can be relaxing as it allows us to focus on the moment. Focusing on the present helps let go of worrying about the past and stressing about the future.
For more information see:
Yoga encompasses breathing, mindfulness and meditation so may be a good way to relax.
For more information see:
https://www.healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/yoga-for-all-bodies#6
https://www.painaustralia.org.au/getting-help/right-care/other-therapies-strategies
Knowing when to rest is difficult and requires planning – talk to your specialist and read our tips about pacing yourself.