Living with chronic pain

Chronic back pain can affect more than just your body. You may not be able to do the things you love and experience anxiety or depression. Your lifestyle can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health. You can start making changes right away to reduce your pain level and improve how you deal with it.

1. Relax by learning deep breathing or meditation

Meditation and deep breathing are two techniques that can help you relax your body, which could ease pain. As muscles receive a subtle message to relax, tension and tightness begin to seep out.

Image credit

Meditation is a form of relaxation that relies on the power of repetition. The body relaxes when you focus on your breath, ignore passing thoughts and repeat a phrase or word, also known as a mantra. You can learn to meditate on your own but a class may be helpful.

2. Reduce the stress in your daily life

Negative emotions such as depression, anxiety and stress may increase your body’s pain sensitivity. You may be able to find relief from chronic pain by learning how to control stress. Acupuncture Gloucester may help. For Acupuncture Gloucester, visit Purelands.

There are several techniques that can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Listening to soothing music can improve your mood and help you cope with chronic pain. You can even buy specially-designed relaxation tapes and CDs. It is also known as guided imagery. This involves creating peaceful, calming images in your head. Another technique to promote relaxation is progressive muscle relaxation.

Image credit

3. Exercise can help you reduce chronic pain by releasing endorphins

You may not realise that exercise can actually help you. As long as you don’t overdo it, do not go too far, and avoid excessive activity. Strengthening your abdominal and back muscles can also prevent further injury and pain.

Exercise is also important for controlling blood sugar, reducing heart disease risks, and maintaining a healthy weight, especially if you suffer from diabetes. It also increases your endorphin levels. These brain chemicals help to improve your mood and block pain signals.