by 6 people |
Are you trying to deal with Fibromyalgia?
Six years ago, I had a minor accident, causing my neck muscles to go into spasm and my neck was stuck stiff to the right-side. I made it into the emergency room, where the doctor prescribed some anti-inflammatories, and a course of physiotherapy.
Little did I know that this was the beginning of all my problems I still suffer with today.
I, like many others I read about, have been to so many doctors and health professionals, looking desperately for someone to tell me what was wrong with me.
A year or so after my accident, I knew that it had to be more that just my injury annoying me, as I had widespread pain, a constant tightness in my muscles, in particular my neck and shoulders. My job as a teacher was beginning to become impaired too. This was the point I knew I really had to find out what this was. I was having trouble marking my students' books, and if I did get through all 30, I would ache all over and I just couldn't get any relief. I felt tired all the time, was finding it hard to stay motivated at work (and I love my job), and everyday life was becoming a struggle.
I've been to almost every health professional around. Several doctors, accupuncture, naturopath, osteopath, physiotherapist, massage therapists, even a strange chiropractic-type therapy (can't remember what it was called). I would hate to think about the thousands of dollars I've spent on all that stuff over the years. And all the promises and hopes broken each time the therapy didn't work, and then i'd move onto the next one, and this would go on and on and on.
Finally I got to a point when it couldn't get any worse. I could hardly move, wasn't able to sleep because of the intense stiff pain in my muscles, and a general feeling of dispair. I went into my doctor and demanded something to help. I said i'd had enough, and was in tears as he tried to figure out what to do. He explained a drug called 'amitriptyline', which is basically a low dose anti-depressant which can help deaden the nerve cells and 'turn this ship around' he explained. I felt better that I felt someone was finally on my side and I didn't feel like I was imagining things and that people thought I was crazy! I also got some other pain killers, and while I'm very much into natural therapy, sometimes there is a time and place for traditional medicine. This was it, as I wasn't sure what i would have done without it at that stage.
From that point, I have improved a lot, and most days I can operate normally. I have normal energy levels, and while my muscles still hurt at times (especially after long periods on the computer - like now :) ) I feel that my condition has come a long way.
I wanted to reach out to others who have fibromyalgia and other related conditions, and offer 10 great ways to help 'combat' this condition. I say 'combat' as i'm not entirely convinced that there is a cure yet, but we are at least on our way of coping with something which can take over your life if you let it.
Good luck everyone, and please send me some feedback, I'd love to know what you do to help and if any of my suggestions give you relief well then I'm so happy for you!
Top 10 ways to help you deal with Fibromyalgia!
All products endorsed are under $20 - Yay!
So suffering from Fibromyalgia can easily and quickly become a very very costly experience. There are so many products out there... who knows what works and what doesn't?
That's why I've put together my top 10 list of things I do to help you too! I wanted to share what works for me, and show people lots of great products that I use to help me - ALL (except the Thera Cane) are all priced under $20! So it can finally be affordable to help yourself to better health!
New Table of Contents
- Top 10 ways to help you deal with Fibromyalgia!
- Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
- How good could you feel?
- What helps you the most?
- 1. Trigger point therapy
- Best products for Trigger Point Therapy
- 2. Buy A Theracane
- The Original Theracane
- 3. Arnica Massage Oil
- Weleda Arnica Massage Oil
- 4. A Trusty Heat-Pack
- Get yourself a Thermalon Heat Pack
- 5. Eat Well!
- Books to help you cook healthier meals
- 6. Gentle Exercise
- Great Yoga Accessories
- 7. Specialised Natural Supplements
- Get your Fibromyalgia supplements now!
- 8. Get some 'You' Time
- Music to help with 'you-time'
- 9. Positiveness goes a long way!
- Buy Louise Hay Books, DVDs and Music
- 10. Get enough sleep
- Get your Natural Calm
- Build a positive information web with people
- CHECK OUT MY OTHER WORKS OF ART!
- Please stop by and say Hi!
Diagnosing Fibromyalgia
While I'm not going to go into great detail, here is some information if you are new to the idea of having Fibromyalgia. Perhaps you have heard of it, and wonder whether you have it. This excert comes from the Mayo Clinic website.
Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of fibromyalgia can vary, depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day. Common signs and symptoms include:
Widespread Pain
Fibromyalgia is characterized by pain in specific areas of your body when pressure is applied, including the back of your head, upper back and neck, upper chest, elbows, hips and knees. The pain generally persists for months at a time and is often accompanied by stiffness.
Fatigue and Sleep disturbances
People with fibromyalgia often wake up tired and unrefreshed even though they seem to get plenty of sleep. Some studies suggest that this sleep problem is the result of a sleep disorder called alpha wave interrupted sleep pattern, a condition in which deep sleep is frequently interrupted by bursts of brain activity similar to wakefulness. So people with fibromyalgia miss the deep restorative stage of sleep. Nighttime muscle spasms in your legs and restless legs syndrome also may be associated with fibromyalgia.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
The constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating associated with IBS are common in people with fibromyalgia.
Headaches and facial pain
Many people who have fibromyalgia also have headaches and facial pain that may be related to tenderness or stiffness in their neck and shoulders. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction, which affects the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, also is common in people with fibromyalgia.
Heightened sensitivity
It's common for people with fibromyalgia to report being sensitive to odors, noises, bright lights and touch.
Other common signs and symptoms include:
- Depression
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the hands and - feet (paresthesia)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Mood changes
- Chest pain
- Dry eyes, skin and mouth
- Painful menstrual periods
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
Fibromyalgia Diagnosis
Diagnosing fibromyalgia is difficult because there isn't a single, specific diagnostic laboratory test. In fact, before receiving a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, you may go through several medical tests, such as blood tests and X-rays, only to have the results come back normal. Although these tests may rule out other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and multiple sclerosis, they can't confirm fibromyalgia.
The American College of Rheumatology has established general classification guidelines for fibromyalgia, to help in the assessment and study of the condition. According to these guidelines, to be diagnosed with fibromyalgia you must have experienced widespread aching pain for at least three months and have a minimum of 11 locations on your body that are abnormally tender under relatively mild, firm pressure. In addition to taking your medical history, a doctor checking for fibromyalgia will likely press firmly on specific points on your head, upper body and certain joints so that you can confirm which cause pain.
Not all doctors agree with these guidelines. Some believe that the criteria are too rigid and that you can have fibromyalgia even if you don't meet the required number of tender points. Others question how reliable and valid tender points are as a diagnostic tool.
Here is a diagram showing the tender points the doctor may look for:
How good could you feel?
Imagine... how easy your life would be if you could just do all the things you want and love to do WITHOUT the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia...
Imagine... how easy your life would be if you could just fall asleep when your head hits the pillow and feel rested and ready to get up and go in the morning...
Imagine... not having to take handfuls of expensive pain medications and anti-depressants that don't work, can make you feel like you're someone else, and often have deadly side effects....
Imagine... having your old job or career back, the one you were forced to quit because you were too tired or hurt too much to make it through the day...
Imagine... being able to play with your kids without having to spend the rest of the day on the couch...
Imagine ... having romantic feelings again...
What helps you the most?
1. Trigger point therapy
I'll explain a little more about trigger point therapy to help.
What is Trigger Point Therapy?
Trigger point therapy is a bodywork technique that involves the applying of pressure to tender muscle tissue in order to relieve pain and dysfunction in other parts of the body. Sometimes massage and trigger point therapy are performed together.
Trigger point therapy is also called myofascial trigger point therapy. It was developed by Dr. Janet Travell in the United States in the 1940s.
What are trigger points?
Trigger points are areas of tenderness in a muscle. There are two basic types of trigger points: active and latent.
Active trigger points cause muscular pain and will refer pain and tenderness to another area of the body when pressure is applied. Latent trigger points only exhibit pain when compressed, they do not refer pain to other areas of the body. Latent trigger points are believed to be one of the causes of stiff joints and restricted range of motion of old age.
Trigger points may be associated with myofascial pain syndromes or fibromyalgia. Trigger points are very common. They are also referred to as muscle knots.
Trigger points differ from acupressure points. Acupressure points are concentrations of energy or blockages of the body's energy pathways. Trigger points are physical phenomena that can be felt by touch.
The pain caused by trigger points may be the biggest cause of disability and loss of time in the workplace.
Here is a diagram to help you understand how muscle tension and stress are related:
Best products for Trigger Point Therapy
The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook: Your Self-Treatment Guide for Pain Relief, Second Edition
This is the Number 1 Best-Selling book about how to treat your self with Trigger Point Therapy. This book makes the same techniques that therapists use available to you at home with instructions that are easy to follow, and abetted by an extensive collection of charts and corresponding illustrations. It is an invaluble resource.
Amazon Price: $15.61 (as of 12/17/2009) 
Davinci Tool
The DaVinci Tool is a simple, easy to use, and the perfect travel companion. I use mine EVERY DAY! Adjust the position of it as you lie on it until you find effective spots. Position the tool anywhere there is tension, muscle spasms or soreness and lie back and relax. Let the tool do the work for you. Each side of the Da Vinci Tool has a different application. Turn it and try all sides for the one that is best for you. I use it when I wake up if i'm a bit sore and stiff, and also before I go to bed to help muscles relax so I can sleep easier.
Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 12/17/2009)
2. Buy A Theracane
A friend introduced me to this invaluable piece of equipment about 6 months ago. After trying it for the first time, I was immediately hooked!
Closely related to Trigger Point Therapy, I've put the Theracane 2nd on my list of must haves.
It is similar to the DaVinci tool, and is endorsed by most doctors, chiropractors and therapists.
I've done my research, and the cheapest I can find is on Amazon, and I know I said everything here was less than $20, I just had to put this in here!
On the main Theracane website, the tool retails for more than $35, and it's only $28.95 on Amazon. If you combine it with some other stuff you get free shipping too. You can't go wrong can ya?
The Original Theracane
It's super easy to use, but if you want extra help, they offer a DVD for an extra $6.
TheraCane
The original Thera Cane is green. Make sure you get the original! The additional owner's manual will help you find points quickly and make you feel more confident with your Thera Cane.
Amazon Price: $30.92 (as of 12/17/2009)
3. Arnica Massage Oil
I can't live without my Arnica Massage oil. There are lots of brands but I will only use Weleda Massage Oils and products, as Weleda is the World No. 1 trusted brand for homeopathic remedies and natural products. When I lived in New Zealand, we had a Weleda centre in our town, Havelock North. They had special nurses who trained in natural therapy, and I would go there and have an oiling (which is similar to a massage, except they rub you with certain Weleda oils, wrap you up like a Mummy, and leave you to nap in totally peaceful surroundings). It's just amazing. But back to the topic... Check out their website here for more info on Weleda:
Weleda Arnica Massage Oil softens and tones the skin. It contains pure sunflower seed and olive oil, which, when combined with extracts of Arnica flowers and birch leaves, stimulates the skin's natural functions. It's ideal for use before sports or physical exertion, as massage helps warm the body. After exercise, a relaxing massage with Arnica Massage Oil helps soothe and comfort tired muscles. Rosemary and Lavender essential oils provide a warming, powerful fragrance. Free of synthetic additives, including fragrance, color and preservatives and raw materials derived from mineral oils. Not tested on animals.
In my opinion you can't get any better than this. I take a travel size with me when in the car on long trips, or when on long plane trips (like between NZ and USA!). I always have a full-size bottle by my bed, and I always put it on before I go to sleep. It would be even better if you husband or wife would do the honours as mine does sometimes!
Weleda Arnica Massage Oil
Body Care-Arnica Massage Oil Trial Size - .34 oz. - Liquid
Same great product, travel size.
Amazon Price: $1.12 (as of 12/17/2009)
Weleda - Arnica Ointment, 1.1 oz cream
Weleda Arnica Ointment is useful if you want something a little less 'fragrant'. Arnica Ointment works much the same as massage oil, just rub on anywhere. It also doubles as a great remedy for bruises, sprains and bumps, as it is an excellent anti-inflammatory and soaks into muscles quickly.
Amazon Price: $7.99 (as of 12/17/2009)
4. A Trusty Heat-Pack
There are many different kinds of heat treatments that it is easy to get confused with which is best. It is really important that you have heat therapy that:
- Has moist heat (i.e dry heat can dehydrate muscles and make them feel worse, not better)
- Is able to be put in the freezer, if you prefer cold therapy
- Is washable (so that it is hygienic and stays free from mold and germs)
- Has 'sections' sewn into it, so that all the beads don't go to one end or the other.
- Is natural (doesn't contain perfumes etc).
Thermalon products are in my opinion the best for easing firbomyalgia pain, and meet all the above standards. Designed to deliver a moist heat treatment when it's convenient to just lie back in bed or sit in a comfortable chair. They work well for treating shoulders, lower back, and abdomen and have a range of products depending on your preferences.
What I like most about them is that they aren't made of rice or barley, like some traditional heat packs are (meaning they can't be washed, and are a more dry heat). They are made of 'medibeads' instead, providing a moist and even heat to areas of the body. They also hold their heat well, so your heat-pack should stay hot for at least 30 minutes of relaxation.
I personally prefer the pads with straps, as it is easier to leave them in place, but it's up to personal preference. Amazon has a great range of Thermalon products, click here!
Get yourself a Thermalon Heat Pack
Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heat-Cold Therapy Wrap with Ties for Back, Hip, Shoulder, 7" x 12"
My favourite item! Covers your whole back and shoulders, which is where most of my pain comes from. Can be moved to cover one shoulder or the other if that's where the trouble is! Best of all it's natural and easy to use.
Amazon Price: $18.99 (as of 12/17/2009)
Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heat-Cold Neck Wrap for Neck and Shoulder, 21"
Amazon Price: $18.99 (as of 12/17/2009)
Thermalon Microwave Activated Moist Heat-Cold Compress for Neck, Jaw, Head, Wrist, 4" x 22"
Amazon Price: $17.63 (as of 12/17/2009)
5. Eat Well!
We all know how important it is to eat right! But easier said than done, especially if you are feeling tired and sore, you won't want to be slaving away in the kitchen all day!
I've found the key to balancing a busy life with eating well is simple - only buy healthy things! When my husband and I go food shopping, we try to buy lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. If we don't have junk food in the house, we can't eat it!
We also try to buy our fresh food at the farmer's markets, and most towns have these every weekend. The produce is really fresh, sometimes organic and very cheap compared to the supermarket.
We try to buy whole-grains rather than processed white grains. We eat whole or multi-grain pastas and rice, and buy wholegrain bread and bagels. It means we can still enjoy comfort foods like bread and bagels, but it feels great to eat healthier!
My favourite easy and healthy snacks:
- Fresh fruit and pro-biotic yogurt
- Multi-grain crackers and hummus or fat-free dip
- Oatmeal and brown sugar
- Melon and a small amount of whipped topping (not cream)
- A glass of V8 vegetable juice is an easy way to get an extra serving of vegetables
- Banana on whole-grain bread
My favourite easy and healthy dinners:
- Chicken is versatile and easy to cook. I like it broiled, with a marinade like Dijon honey mustard, or peanut satay. I serve this with rice (easy to cook in the microwave), and some fresh veges steamed like broccoli or cauliflower.
- Pasta salads are easy to make and taste great warm or cold. Try cooking your favourite whole-wheat pasta, stir in some sundried tomato pesto, and add chopped veges like red and green peppers, green onions, grated carrots, olives and peanuts or almonds. Sometimes I add small squares of cheese too.
- Salads - Salads are quick and easy to make. You can use whatever you have in the fridge. We like red and green lettuce, peppers, carrots, green onions, tomato, cucumber and a small amount of grated cheese. For an easy meal, top with marinated grilled chicken and a tasty sauce like Zesty Ranch.
- Campbell's Soup recipes. On the back of the Campbell's soups you will find really super-easy and nourishing recipes. These are great especially if you have children, and I find that they are cheap to make too. My favourite is Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole. You just throw it all together and leave it to cook in the oven.
- Steam-cooked frozen vegetables. These are life-savers, and so easy. Look for various veges in the frozen section that can be cooked in the bag, by steam, in the microwave. They taste really fresh and are very easy, and go great with any meats, chicken or fish - plus no pots to clean!
I don't want to go into the 'healthy' stuff too much, as my lens is already plenty long, but hopefully you can get some ideas to help make meal-times easy and healthy - great for a healing body and mind.
Oh nearly forgot - you need to drink A LOT of water to help clear toxins from your body and feed your muscles and keep them hydrated!
Books to help you cook healthier meals
Ani's Raw Food Kitchen: Easy, Delectable Living Foods Recipes
Amazon Price: $14.36 (as of 12/17/2009)
EatingWell Serves Two: 150 Healthy in a Hurry Suppers
Amazon Price: $16.47 (as of 12/17/2009)
Rachael Ray's 30-Minute Get Real Meals: Eat Healthy Without Going to Extremes
Amazon Price: $13.57 (as of 12/17/2009)
FIX-IT and FORGET-IT LIGHTLY : Healthy, Low-Fat Recipes for Your Slow Cooker
Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 12/17/2009)
The 1200-Calorie-a-Day Menu Cookbook : Quick and Easy Recipes for Delicious Low-fat Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners, and Desserts
Amazon Price: $9.32 (as of 12/17/2009)
6. Gentle Exercise
Yoga is very therapeutic!
Appropriate exercises may include walking, swimming, biking, yoga and water aerobics. Stretching, good posture and relaxation exercises also are helpful.
I find yoga the best exercise for Fibromyalgia. It has allowed my muscles to strengthen, so they can then handle daily stresses and movement with less effort. I find the breathing techniques help me relax and release stress (and we all know that muscle problems can be from stress too). I find the discipline of going every week makes me feel more responsible for my own health and wellness. And best of all, I can do exercises and stretches taught in class at home when I feel tense or need to relax or de-stress.
Yoga is very much a popular exercise amongst people of all ages. It is cheap to get into, all you really need is a yoga mat, and most sessions will cost between $6 and $10. I go once a week, and I can fit $10 into my budget.
I also walk as much as I can, usually for about 20 - 30 minutes. I just grab my shoes, throw on my i-pod with a motivating exercising playlist, and off I go! And you can do it anywhere - and it's cheap!
As I'm sure you know, walking (exercise in general) helps move blood and oxygen around the body) and so this will also help move toxins that may be lodged in your muscles, and will help you feel more relaxed. You should be able to sleep better too!
Great Yoga Accessories
**Right now, Amazon is offering free shipping with orders over $25. **
***Also, get $10 off if you spend $50 or more in lots of sections, if you pay with Bill Me Later***
Close Out Mats by Nu-Source 24 in. x 68 in. (4mm to 5mm Thick)
These yoga mats are a great buy - 50% off retail price as they are seconds. It's a great way to get yourself a mat if you are starting out, and on a budget like me. They will be fine, just maybe a wrinkle, or funny edge or small imperfection! Heaps of colours to choose from!
Amazon Price: $8.48 (as of 12/17/2009)
The Firm Yoga Mat (Pink)
Perfect if you want to splash out a little more! Made of soft, durable foam, it's textured, non-slip surface prevents sliding during poses and balances. Extra padding protects knees, elbows and other sensitive areas (while not being too thick), and it even includes 15-minute workout DVD. Perfect!
Rolls up tight for convenient storage and travel
Amazon Price: $16.77 (as of 12/17/2009)
Gaiam Yoga Mat (Koi Fish)
Gaiam is a trusted eco-friendly company that produces high quality yoga mats and accessories. I thought this Koi Fish mat was a very good price, and what's best is their mats are free of phylates (plastic additives).
Amazon Price: (as of 12/17/2009)
Gaiam Eco Conscious Recycled Yoga Mat Bag (Sage)
Here's a great eco-friendly yoga carry-bag at a great price!
Amazon Price: (as of 12/17/2009)
Strength Building Yoga
I've added this Strength Building Yoga DVD with Rodney Yee, as the types of poses relate closely to Fibromyalgia problems. Part of helping our muscles is to strengthen them, and yoga is so gentle and perfect for this. It is a great price too!
Amazon Price: $13.49 (as of 12/17/2009)
7. Specialised Natural Supplements
5-HTP
5-HTP, also known as 5-hydroxytryptophan, is the direct precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. Low levels of serotonin are associated with sleep problems, depression, anxiety, compulsive eating disorders, restless leg syndrome, migraines, fibromyalgia and low pain threshold. Many people that are afflicted with one of those conditions often have others, which has led some researchers to label them collectively as "Low Serotonin Syndrome". By increasing the brains concentration of serotonin, an antidepressant effect is created. 5-HTP works by increasing the amount of serotonin manufactured in the brain. Although systematically administered serotonin does not readily enter the brain, its direct precursor, 5-HTP does penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and therefore, dietary consumption of 5-HTP leads to an increase in brain serotonin concentration.
Take this at night, about an hour before bed-time. It will help with sleep dramatically, and make you feel better during the day too!
A Great Calcium Supplement
Source Naturals Coral Calcium Multi-Mineral Complex is a rich blend of minerals from coral and other mineral sources. It contains high quality, highly assimilated forms of the minerals involved in hundreds of important metabolic reactions including bone formation, energy production, neurotransmitter activity and maintenance of blood alkalinity. An initial study on an alkaline mineral blend demonstrated an increase in blood alkalinity (pH) and buffering capacity. Proper alkalinity (pH) of the blood is critical for the overall health of the body. Source Naturals Coral Calcium Multi-Mineral Complex is eco-friendly: it is harvested in Okinawa, Japan
Glucosamine Chondroitin & MSM
Well known for it's ability to support joint Health. The supplement i've showcased is what I use. It is a Triple formula. It Supports joint flexibility and comfort, in an easy-swallow smaller tablet. Natrol has combined three of the best Joint Health ingredients to give your joints a rest.
First, Glucosamine has been shown to regenerate cartilage tissue. Secondly, Chondroitin helps promote lubricating fluids for your joints and cartilage. Third, MSM helps maintain elasticity of joint tissues 1 - 2 - 3 - useful ingredients for promoting flexibility, mobility, and of course, comfort.
Good luck in your search for quality supplements to help you! Let me know what works for you.
Get your Fibromyalgia supplements now!
OL Medical - 5HTP Plus 100mg 30c
Amazon Price: $11.31 (as of 12/17/2009)
Natrol Glucosamine Chondroitin & MSM, Tablets, 150 tablets
Amazon Price: $20.09 (as of 12/17/2009)
8. Get some 'You' Time
Everyone needs peace and quiet in our busy, hectic lives. But how many people could actually say that they put aside 30, 20, even 10 minutes a day to themselves? Not many I bet.
I like to call it 'You Time'. If I called it Meditation, i'm scared people will run away from reading on as that's what 'weird hippies' do! (Not my opinion, just what i've heard some uninformed people say!). I used to do this with my class, after breaks, to calm them down, relax them and get them ready for another learning situation. They came to really enjoy and 'need' this time, and would complain if we didn't do it!
I find that if I spend a small amount of time with myself each day, I can find a sense of peacefulness and added energy. It's really easy, just find a quiet space, inside, outside, wherever you like, sit, or lie down, or stand, and just be! Sometimes my head is full of all sorts of information, and it pops in and out as I try to meditate. You'll get better the more you practice too!
I suggest some peaceful music, and just try to concentrate on breathing. If you listen to your breath, and feel it enter and leave your body, you have more of a chance of concentrating on nothing (as such), and not letting 'words' come into your head and put you off!
Try it - you may be surprised!
Music to help with 'you-time'
Sound Medicine: Music for Healing
Music touches our hearts and resonates within our bodies. The right music can truly renew us, helping us to feel relaxed and rejuvenated. Great musicians have always recognized this therapeutic power of music, and researchers are finally proving them right. THE SOUND MEDICINE SERIES features the works of inspired musical pioneers who are exploring music's healing power.
Amazon Price: $8.99 (as of 12/17/2009)
9. Positiveness goes a long way!
Introducing the great author Louise Hay
About 3 years ago, my mother was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer, affecting her uterus and ovaries. She went through a life-altering experience, and as part of her healing she found an Author by the name of Louise L Hay. Thankfully, my mother is healthy and living life to the fullest now, but Louise Hay was a life-saver for her.
I believe that while Fibromyalgia is a totally different story to cancer, our minds and body are connected and it is vital for us to nourish both.
Louise has some invaluable books, DVDs and CDs which help people to reconnect with themselves and feel more powerful and successful.
About Louise
Louise L. Hay is a metaphysical lecturer and teacher and the bestselling author of numerous books. Her works have been translated into 29 different languages in 35 countries throughout the world. For more than 25 years, Louise has assisted millions of people in discovering and using the full potential of their own creative powers for personal growth and self-healing. Louise is the founder and chairman of Hay House, Inc., a publishing company that disseminates books, audios, and videos that contribute to the healing of the planet.
You can heal your life
Based on the best-selling book of the same name, this DVD shows you how to practice the principles of self-worth and self-esteem taught by Louise L. Hay. Watch as Louise teaches you how to transform negative beliefs and thoughts into positive, loving ones.
By doing the exercises and repeating the affirmations and new thought patterns, you can learn to truly love who you are!
Buy Louise Hay Books, DVDs and Music
You Can Heal Your Life (DVD Study Guide)
If you haven't seen Hay House's Lifestyles series of gorgeous gift books, there is no better way to acquaint yourself than with publisher/author Louise Hay's You Can Heal Your Life. A bestseller for many years, You Can Heal Your Life has been republished with bright, beautiful illustrations in full, living color and exquisite typography--each and every page is a work of art by artist Joan Perrin Falquet. The timeless message of the book is that we are each responsible for our own reality and "dis-ease." Hay believes we make ourselves ill by having thoughts of self-hatred. She includes a directory of ailments and emotional causes for each with a corresponding affirmation to help overcome the illness. For example, the probable cause of multiple sclerosis is "mental hardness, hard-heartedness, iron will, and inflexibility." The healing "thought pattern" would be: "By choosing loving, joyous thoughts, I created a loving joyous world. I am safe and free." --P. Randall Cohan
Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 12/17/2009)
You Can Heal Your Life, the movie
This entertaining and inspirational movie based on the best-selling book of the same name is hosted by author and teacher Louise L. Hay. This film gives penetrating insights into Louises fascinating personal story; and shows how her views on self-esteem, abundance, and the metaphysical causes behind physical ailments were developed. It also reveals how she applied these concepts to her own emotional, spiritual, and professional life. A number of luminaries in the fields of self-help, philosophy, health, spirituality, and New Thought join Louise, giving their take on success, happiness, and the myriad ways in which people can heal their own lives.
Amazon Price: $17.99 (as of 12/17/2009)
Heal Your Body
For people determined to improve their health through knowledge of their bodies and discipline of their minds, Hay narrates from her book, Heal Your Body. With a deep, soothing voice she puts one in the proper frame of mind to absorb her ideas. She addresses the problems of each body part in alphabetical order, giving each a mental cause and then a healing affirmation. Heal Your Body is a fresh and easy step-by-step guide. Just look up your specific health challenge and you will find the probable cause for this health issue and the information you need to overcome it by creating a new thought pattern.
Amazon Price: $6.95 (as of 12/17/2009)
Heal Your Body A-Z: The Mental Causes for Physical Illness and the Way to Overcome Them
A fresh and easy step-by-step guide, set up in an A-Z format. Just look up your specific health challenge and you will find the probable cause for this health issue, as well as the information you need to overcome it by creating a new thought pattern.
Amazon Price: $8.60 (as of 12/17/2009)
Overcoming Fears
On this CD best-selling author and lecturer, Louise L. Hay, helps you overcome fears through the positive strength of mediation and affirmations. By listening, you can change your negative thought patterns into healthy, positive ones.
Louise's meditation visualizes a world where it's safe to grow and love each other without fear. She stresses the importance of loving your inner child, and her vision of the world as a secure, loving place will help give you the confidence and power to make your own contribution to a productive and caring society.
Repeat the affirmations on this CD as often as possible. They will help you change long-standing negative thoughts into ones of self-love, self-worth, and self-esteem. You'll begin to appreciate who you are as you release past programming. Soon you'll have an abundance of health, energy, and well-being developing with-in you.
Amazon Price: $8.76 (as of 12/17/2009)
10. Get enough sleep
Try Natural Calm for $11.70
As with many Fibromyalgia sufferers, I find that sleeping isn't a constant like most people, it's a lucky treasure! Usually I find it hard to sleep if my muscles are particularly sore. I also sometimes get restless leg syndrome too, which again can make bedtime unbearable.
Because fatigue is one of the main characteristics of fibromyalgia, getting sufficient sleep is essential. In addition to allotting enough time for sleep, practice good sleep habits, such as going to bed and getting up at the same time each day and limiting daytime napping.
NATURAL CALM
I've found a great magnesium supplement to help me relax at night and sleep better, called Natural Calm. Magnesium is well-known to help with muscle inflammation and tension in Fibromyalgia sufferers. But i've found that it helps with sleep more than any other sleep supplement i've tried!
Natural Calm does NOT use herbs or drugs to mask symptoms.
Natural calm DOES address an overlooked deficiency that most people with insomnia or excessive tension have.
Taking regular magnesium supplements DOES NOT WORK WELL for most people, this product is VERY DIFFERENT.
Natural Calm is a specially formulated powdered magnesium supplement which you mix with hot water. Natural Calm effervesces and is dissolved completely in the water. You then add cold water or juice to the natural calm and drink.
Natural Calm is absorbed so well that within 20-30 minutes most people notice a distinct feeling of relaxation and release of tension, especially in the muscles. Sleep comes much more easily and people tend to relax more deeply in their sleep and awake more rested. This is simply incredible absorption for magnesium and why Natural Calm is like no other magnesium supplement I have found!
It comes in these flavours: Original, Orange, Lemon, Rasp-Lemon, Calcium Added and a 'Mama' formula for pregnant or nursing mothers.
I have looked for Natural Calm in health stores and it can be quite hard to get your hands on. Luckily, Amazon stocks it, at half the price that you can get it from a Chiropractor's office!
Get your Natural Calm
Natural Calm Kids Calm Orange Flavor 8 Ounces
Made just for kids, this formula includes smaller amounts of Magnesium with Vitamin C and Zinc.
Amazon Price: $16.95 (as of 12/17/2009)
List Price: $22.95
Natural Calm Mama Calm 8 oz
It has folic Acid, Zinc, and Vitamin C with smaller dosage of Magnesium then the regular Natural calm Description: Raspberry lemon flavor Mama Calm absorbs instantly. It contains folic acid and Zinc for proper DNA formation.
Amazon Price: $11.50 (as of 12/17/2009)
List Price: $22.95
Natural Vitality - Natural Calm-Lemon/Raspberry, 8 oz powder
The best flavor - at the best price!
Only $11.70 right now - 49% off the listed Amazon Price!
Amazon Price: $16.60 (as of 12/17/2009)
List Price: $22.95
Natural Vitality - Natural Calm, 8 oz powder
Non-flavored variety.
Amazon Price: $14.25 (as of 12/17/2009)
List Price: $21.95
Build a positive information web with people
Not on my top 10 list but also VERY important!
Social networks and knowing you are not alone are also on my top 10 list.
Besides dealing with the pain and fatigue of fibromyalgia, you may also have to deal with the frustration of having a condition that's often misunderstood. In addition to educating yourself about fibromyalgia, you may find it helpful to provide your family, friends and co-workers with information.
The Mayo Clinic has a short and informative group of information about the condition, which can be printed and given out for people to read.
It's also helpful to know that you're not alone. Organizations such as the Arthritis Foundation and the American Chronic Pain Association provide educational classes and support groups. These groups can often provide a level of help and advice that you might not find anywhere else. They can also help put you in touch with others who have had similar experiences and can understand what you're going through.
The National Fibromyalgia Association. They have a vast amount of current information and research on the condition, as well as a community area where you can join groups and discussions to help you. They also have an online store which sells awareness products as well as education resources and other items to help in your quest for well-ness.
CHECK OUT MY OTHER WORKS OF ART!
- Lone Kiwi Girl in America
- The lens that started it all! All about me and my travels from New Zealand to the big USA!
- Buy Great Kiwi gifts from New Zealand
- Godzone New Zealand is a pure, green and clean country (as you already know i'm sure)! Because some would say we are so cut off from the rest of the world, we have become very 'nifty' at making really cool things! Come check em ' out - they have world-wide shipping and an affiliate program!
- Fab New Zealand Baking Recipes
- Let's share the best of New Zealand baking! I've grouped together my favourite New Zealand style baking recipes and ideas that can be made all over the world, easily, by amatuer chefs like me!
Why don't you try making something as a treat for homesick Kiwis, or to introduce your international friends to our great style of baking! - Fabulous Feijoas
- I would like to introduce the world (well most of it anyway) to the most scrumptious little green fruit you'll ever try in your life! F E I J O A S !! aka: Pineapple Guava!
- Guru Girl's Guide to FREE Online Gaming
- Lucky for you, I have done all the hard work and have found a site which really makes my gaming fingers tickle! It's a no-nonsense, easily accessible - and addictive game-site, oh and did I mention it's also very 'kid' friendly too!
- Things to do in Menomonie, Wisconsin
- Greetings from my new town, Menomonie. Menomonie is an interesting and diverse small mid-west town in Wisconsin. I wanted to share more about Menomonie, for travellers, friends and anyone else interested in fun places to visit!
Please stop by and say Hi!
How are you going in your battle with Fibromyalgia? What treatments are working for you? Do you have anything else I could add to this lens to help others? By all means, tell me!
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Reply
- Jay Def Jay Def Dec 18, 2008 @ 1:17 pm
- Wow what great information! Amazing that you happen to have products advertised directly below your recommendations. I'm sure neither you nor this site make any money off such advertising. Propaganda anyone?!
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Reply
- JDR1 JDR1 Nov 14, 2008 @ 9:23 pm
- Great Information!
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Reply
- JDR1 JDR1 Nov 14, 2008 @ 9:23 pm
- Great Information!
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Reply
- flowergardener flowergardener Aug 25, 2008 @ 6:07 am
- Excellent Lens! Welcome to the Natural Medicine group!
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Reply
- monarch13 monarch13 Aug 23, 2008 @ 6:37 pm
- Thanks for joining The Healthy, Wealthy and Wise Group. 3 stars edit your titles and I'll rerate!
by NZgurugirl
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