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Managing Chronic Pain and Social Norms

row of lightbulbs with only one illuminated

Last week I shared a short video about a young woman with chronic pain on the studio’s Facebook page. To manage the pain, Raquel needs to lie down on her back frequently during the day. This is not an issue if she is at home or at a friend’s house.

The problem arises when she is in public, for there are very few good places to lie down.

And then there is the issue of it not being socially acceptable to lie down in public. At least in our Western culture. Continue reading “Managing Chronic Pain and Social Norms”

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Prolonged Standing Should be Undertaken with Caution

caution sign

I just read an article in the New York Daily News that cited a recent, rather small but provocative study that claims standing desks may lead to back pain.

Wait a minute.

Last I checked, sitting was the new smoking and standing desks were going to save us all from a myriad of health issues.

If you are confused, it would be completely understandable.

Continue reading “Prolonged Standing Should be Undertaken with Caution”

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Stop Fighting Change – Rushing and Stress

photo illustrating contrast between winter and summer

I have a wonderful student who just turned 80. One of the things he struggles with is feeling rushed all the time.

In chatting further with him last week, he brought up the fact that as he is getting older things just take longer. For example, getting dressed in the morning. He remembers when he used to be able to whip on his shirt, pants and socks in no time.

Now just due to the simple fact that his body is changing, it takes longer.

But the problem is that he is still trying to do it as fast as when he was 40. Continue reading “Stop Fighting Change – Rushing and Stress”

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Creating Space, Reducing Stress

cars driving on snowy road

I didn’t grow up in Minnesota. I moved here as an adult. It’s cold here in the winter. The streets are often icy and snow covered, making for hazardous and stressful driving conditions.

One of the many things I had to learn after moving here was how to drive in the winter.

The best piece of advice one of my Minnesota friends gave me regarding winter driving was drive so you use the brakes as little as possible. Continue reading “Creating Space, Reducing Stress”