I have been experiencing something really weird lately and I don't know if this is a symptom of Fibro or not. I feel like I can't relax, I am always tense, always on edge. I was just on a camping trip this weekend and I could not enjoy the setting around me because of the constant tension in my shoulders and back. I try to meditate and it doesn't seem to work. Is there anything anyone can suggest?
Hi Kitten, I can relate to this. My leg muscles often get really tense and I just can't seem to relax them. I do have a PRN muscle relaxer (Flexeril) that does sometimes offer minimal relief. I am getting ready to ask for a different muscle relaxer to try. I also take hot baths with Epsom when the muscles get super tense and that helps (I know that would be hard to do while camping - lol). The other thing I do is I use visualization and deep breathing. It didn't help at first but I kept trying it and as my mind got better at the visualization I do notice it helps. I imagine I am in a favorite place (something calming) and focus on deep breathing. Sometimes I also visualize my muscles are getting stretched on a "taffy puller" (from Willy Wonka). Also, another thing I've done which is helping is I started physical therapy a few months ago. The exercises I have been doing are helping with the muscle tightness. Hugs!!!
Hello,
I agree with suggestions Auburnm stated. Also, have you tried Chiropractic care? I carry all my stress and tension in my shoulders and upper back. Regular adjustments help with the muscle tension and help my muscles relax. Tension can be very painful and it can take the focus away from fun things in life, like camping, because it is painful. I also take a muscle relaxer when needed. Do you have anxiety? Anxiety can also contribute to muscle tension and cause tension build up, so my chiropractor told me. I've found that when my anxiety is under control along with reduced stress, my muscle tension is less. If I don't get regular chiropractor visits (once a week or every other week), my neck "pops" eventually and I'm unable to move it side to side. Massage is also super helpful with muscle tension. Have you looked into massage therapy? I hope you are able to find some relief.
Sending support your way,
Sara
meditation and visualization are good tools to use for anyone ill or healthy.. it is good if one can do it daily to try to set patterns in our brains. i have a playlist of healing music i play at night as sleep is an issue for me and many as well. It does help some but i also take ativan for anxiety and to help with the sleep.. i know that restless, weird feeling you speak of, I also drink calming teas most daily and just do about whatever i can to help. other folks take baths with epsom salts and such.i think we all try out as many relaxing things as possible. Stuff with lavender is also very healing and soothing. I bought some lavender leaves and have them in a cup by my bedside. smells good too. By the way the meditative, healing music i listen to at night is by Stephen Halpern. I llike him as he has studiied how certain sounds affect the brain in a very healing and postive way. You can look him up if you like, read what he is about and give a listen. HUGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGS
suzie
Thanks everyone for the suggestions, I really needed it.
I'll second the recommendation for the chiropractor. Any gentle exercise/stretching can also help.
Also, sleep can really make a difference. If you're not getting enough sleep (and who is these days?), you should try to get into better sleep habits. It can be hard when you have so much to do, but you need to remind yourself that you'll work better if you're well-rested.
Best of luck,
Liz