About This Column
Here you'll find advice on how to take a more comprehensive approach toward managing your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Keep in mind, this column is intended to advise you on how to complement your treatment, not replace it. Please consult your doctor to determine what advice may be right for you.
Featured Article
Give Yourself a Break
Apr 23, 2008
I have talked before about the importance of pacing yourself throughout the day. It's equally important to do so when participating in activities and hobbies. If you are highly motivated or enjoying yourself, it can be easy to overdo it. But it's important for people living with RA to be extra careful about taking breaks and modifying activities to suit your health.
Here are a few ideas that can help keep you from pushing yourself too far:
Put a sticky note on or near your computer that reminds you to take a break every hour. It should say: “Stretch-Move-Get Up-Breathe.” I mean it! People sit at the computer for hours without realizing how much time has gone by. It is imperative for your joints, muscles, health, and vitality to get up and move. No one should be stagnant for that long a period of time, especially not people living with RA
Cleaning the house is another place where you can easily do too much at once. To avoid this, choose what part of the house or which chore you want to do first, then stop and take a rest. Trust me, the mess will wait! Move on to the next chore once you feel rested
Try to space out your grooming throughout the day. If you don't have somewhere to be first thing in the morning, take your shower, and then move on to something else. Come back and curl your hair, shave, or put on makeup and jewelry in the afternoon when your muscles are warmed up and your body is less stiff
Learning how to stop is one of the most difficult things for most people to do. But it really is important. Don't skip your rest periods simply because you feel OK at the moment, or because you really want to get something done. You will most likely pay the price when you're finished. Take a break now, and you will be able to get more done later, and feel better doing it.
Managing Pain and Stress
