[CedarS]

I'd love to hear from others what all they do to help themselves through rough times, how do we care for ourselves?

Today I let myself cry when I needed to

I used helpful meds appropriately

I made sure to keep my blood sugar up, to eat well

I took a walk through the neighborhood

I enjoyed a phone conversation with my son

I chose to stay clear of a few things that would be triggers

I read through an enjoyable magazine and am now reading a fun book

I laughed, remembered to slow down my breathing when it got fast and tense

Hi - what has always helped me to get through the rough stuff is looking back over my shoulder and realizing what I have already gotten through! How much stronger I am than I think I am!

[mytime]

hmm, wow, no meds, and still haven't learned to cry, really wish I could. I play with my kids, and i mean play, I enjoy them so much it takes away everything. I take things one day at a time and try not to sweat stuff I can't change, and definately avoid the triggers

[CedarS]

Deirdre, I like how you said that, I can certainly relate! We gotta remember to periodically take note of how far we've come, where we were, and notice where we are now.

When a therapist tells me what a strong survivor I am, that I have a lot of self insight and have come a long way, I used to not really believe them. Now, I realize that part of my healing journey is to pay attention to the facts. To see that true strength in me and build on it.

Sarah

[CedarS]

mytime, so cool that you really get down and play with your kids. Reminds me also that I'm due to encourage some more play time in my days.

The simple truths of don't sweat the small stuff and take one day at a time are so profound. I also use -this too shall pass- as a favorite, and the serenity prayer. I used to be pretty caught up in drama and complexity, now, the simpler things are, the better.

Sarah

[jennie]

i sleep. i sleep not because i'm tired, but because i cannot face the day. why be awake and be miserable when i can dream dreams? if i have a nightmare, then i change the dream or fly away.

[CedarS]

</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
i sleep. i sleep not because i'm tired, but because i cannot face the day. why be awake and be miserable when i can dream dreams? if i have a nightmare, then i change the dream or fly away.

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post">

(((((((jennie)))))))

Your words have a poetic rhythm to them.

You change your dreams, I do also, I find it a really useful skill. Very useful.

[SleepsWithButterFlies]

I am sure I am not going to make friends over this post but to be honest drugs..I like drugs. Also my dog and sleep. Mostly drugs and the thought of someone I love

[CedarS]

Can I ask, what type of drugs? And do they work for you long term or do you end up paying for them afterwards, in other words, do you have a hangover effect or bad side effects from use?

Sleep helps me lots also, almost always in the midst of rough times I can discover that I am short on sleep. Nightmares have been costing me and I've usually been trying to run ahead of my symptoms rather than paying attention.

Dog, what kind of dog? Animals we are close to sure do make a difference. I had two cats, sisters, they lived 14-15 years and are now gone, I miss them immensely, not ready yet to get another animal friend.

Love.....ah love. Makes the world go round.

[SleepsWithButterFlies]

I love sleeping pills and benzos. That is what I take. I do not tank up on them a lot but do take a few too many every night. Oddly I seldom feel loppy the next day. No side effects but one on one but it's small. I can take a lot of stuff and not get too messed up. I like my sleep. Wish it was 24/7..I am again sorry on your kitties..I love animals they do not stab you in the back but love you no matter what. ...even if you're a creep

[(JD)]

Yes remembering all the basics of self care is important in rough times. I take my pain killer on time, and increased dose if necessary.

I do my stretching exercises to keep my muscles from spasming.

I listen to the cd my T gave me...delta brain wave sounds to help stop the thinking.

I drink my water.

Eating helps, especially salads.

Rest.

Turn off the phone ringers, check for messages only once a day.

Letting my dog have fun as a dog.

Knowing that right now this very moment (when tough time) generally passes by itself and all I need to do is allow it.

[(JD)]

bump