3 Stress Busters for Illness

Feeling overwhelmed? Any type of continuous illness, whatever the degree, can wreak havoc on the psyche. Some quick tips can do wonders for attitude and even health.

When dealing with illness, whether chronic or acute, it's hard to keep from getting stressed. People hold jobs, care for families, and try to hold the rest of their lives together while their health isn't cooperating. No wonder we feel crazed! 3 simple ways to diffuse the ticking time bomb (health permitting) include:

Exercise (light or moderate)

Plan with your doctor what will work for you. Make sure he or she approves of the activity(ies) before starting. Your health situation will dictate at what level you can work. I find just walking or doing housework gets me more optimistic. Tai Chi is another low-impact, calming activity.

Meditation or Massage

I find that if I channel my inner calm and block out my external frustrations, I can return to my world refreshed and happier. Sometimes this is really needed if going through a flare-up of my condition. I find that counting backwards from 100 calms and focuses me. Meditation DVDs or videos, often available at the library, can also start you on the path to tranquility. I also love massage, including upper body, reflexology, and reiki. My mom, Mary, and I have gone together to relieve our individual tensions. The spa we visit serves herbal tea and has a soothing whirlpool.

Psychotherapy/ Support Group

Lastly, something most can do regardless of physical condition is put stress into the hands of professionals. A psychologist can help you sort out your issues while maintaining objectivity, something family members can't always do. Support groups gather people with similar problems/ situations. It can help to meet and speak with others in the same boat.

*****Disclaimer: Physical activity/ excercise should always be approached with the approval of your physician, due to people's different levels of physical ability and states of health.