Winter typically means large amounts of pain and frustration, but I'm finally learning how to manage both. My techniques include:
- Rolfing -> I'm continuing appointments despite some bruising from the deep tissue work. I notice my muscular structure more now than before, and feel like I am fighting to keep my hard-won gains in the battle to stand straighter. In response, my rolfer and I agree to make visits more frequent, once every 2 weeks instead of once a month, in hopes to help my body "remember" what it *should* be doing.
- Warmth -> most people seem to prefer cold on a soft tissue injury, but for me, especially in the winter, this results in more pain as my capillaries collapse. So, I am trying to keep myself warm before I notice I'm cold. This is currently working with the assistance of flannel lined pants/jeans, fuzzy slippers, flannel sheets, and not being afraid to wear gloves indoors.
- Staying active -> the more I hurt the less I want to move. I'm fighting this instinct by continuing to move despite the discomfort. This idea came from a friend whose child has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and staying active helps minimize the flare-ups. I figured it is worth a try. My biggest effort is walking since yoga during the winter still results in dislocations.
- Laughing -> they say laughter is the best medicine, so I look for something to laugh about each day. Occasionally, this results in jaw pain, but I think it is worth it.
Dislocations and subluxations still occur, but I feel like I am managing them okay at this point. Usually, when I see the arctic cold descending into my area of the country I cringe and cry, then am miserable until spring thaw. This year it doesn't seem as intimidating.
