Relaxing

Living with a health problem can affect more than just your physical wellbeing. In many cases, it can also take its toll on your emotions, making you feel anxious, stressed or sometimes a bit low.

Finding ways to relax can make a big difference to how you cope with your condition. Here are some ideas you might want to try:

• Share your feelings with a friend, partner or counsellor. Sometimes simply talking over your worries and fears with someone else can make you feel less alone with your condition.
  
  
• Treat your body with respect by making a special effort to eat properly and get enough sleep. Doing some exercise can also make you feel better about yourself and give you a more positive outlook on life. Most importantly, listen to your body. If you feel tired or slightly unwell, don't overdo things.
  
  
• Try to cut back on stimulants like alcohol, caffeine and tobacco. These may provide short-term pleasure, but in the longer term they will make you feel even worse.
  
  
• Experiment with relaxation techniques – Many people find meditation and visualisation techniques extremely relaxing, and puts them in a positive frame of mind. For more information on meditation visit www.metta.org.uk/meditate
  
  
• A practical way to start is to buy a relaxation tape or CD. These are widely available from book or music shops. To a background of relaxing, unobtrusive music, you will be encouraged to slowly relax your body, and then focus on relaxing and positive thoughts.
  
  
• Indulge yourself now and then. Go for a massage or a pedicure. Being pampered by someone else can help you relax, release stored up tension and make you feel better about your life.
  
  
• Take time out to do things you enjoy, such as listening to music, sitting in the park or going to the cinema.
  
  
• Speak to your doctor or practice nurse if you can't shake off your feelings of anxiety, as you may be suffering from depression.