5 things that actually help my chronic pain
There's always the next wellness trend. Always someone trying to sell you the next thing that's going to 'heal you', 'cure you' of your symptoms. And we buy into it because we're being given false promises that one thing will fix it all.
When you're living with a chronic illness, a CBD rub isn't going to take away all the pain. It may help ease symptoms, but it's unlikely to remove them entirely. I don't believe there'll be a holy grail for my fibromyalgia, no one thing that magically makes me better. Instead, I keep a wide range of tools in my toolbox. I'm still finding things, the fatigue still looms and the pain is still ever-present, but here's what's genuinely helping me. No sugar coating, no 'this cured me', just my honest truth.
1. Acupuncture
I always go on about this one because it's been so helpful in so many ways, easing pain, specifically in my hands, and working on both physical and emotional wellbeing at the same time. 10/10, would recommend.
2. Acu Seeds
Little acupressure beads you stick on your ears and wear for five consecutive days. The guide that comes with them tells you where to place them for your specific issue. I use them mostly for fatigue and migraines, but they've also helped with stomach issues and anxiety. I have a 10% off code if you want to try them: GABSSFITNESS
3. Feet in warm water
This one's great because it's free. Place your feet in warm water for 10-25 minutes with a cold flannel around your neck to help ease migraine attacks. When I'm feeling too rough to run a bath, I stand in the shower and hold the showerhead over my feet, works just the same. Can't believe I didn't discover this one sooner.
4. Reiki
From having a three-week migraine, to receiving reiki during training, to waking up the next morning and it being gone, that was the moment I knew I wanted to direct my business toward supporting people living with chronic pain. This gentle healing energy is a truly beautiful support.
5. Reformer Pilates and Yoga
Gentle, strengthening movement that helps calm my nervous system, both mentally and physically. I try to get some movement in a few times a week because it genuinely helps with the pain. Reformer Pilates feels like a full-body workout I can actually do without it being too intense, and Yin Yoga is my favourite for easing body aches and quieting my mind.
So, there we have it, my top five. What would you add?
Talk soon,
Gaby, Founder, Yōsei Healing 妖精