Fibromyalgia Resource

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Perspective on medicine. Whatever medical support you use conventional or alternative see it as secondary, and what you can do to create the optimal conditions in your life for self-healing as primary.

Illness as teacher. You did not cause your illness, but it is a call to re-evaluate your priorities and awaken to valuable life lessons. See your disease as an opportunity for growth and transformation. People who find meaning in their illness have better medical outcomes.

Meditation. Develop a daily practice of meditation. Hundreds of studies prove its effects in reducing pain and healing the nervous system, circulatory system, immune system, digestive system, and hormonal system. It will also help you attune to inner guidance and inspiration.

Radical simplification. Reduce or eliminate television, news, noise and other agitating sources of neurological stimulation. Let your nervous system be at peace. Practice the art of being simple and present by asking yourself, "What really matters in this moment?"

Right exercise. Exercise cultivates the vital force, but must be gentle, non-impact, and not cause pain. Aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or movement in water is helpful, as well as chi kung and tai chi. Avoid the downward spiral of vitality caused by de-conditioning.

Practice loving kindness. Frequently stop, close your eyes, and bring your awareness to your heart. Summon feelings of appreciation, gratitude, compassion and love for yourself and others. This will cause body-wide changes that can reduce the severity of symptoms.

Joy and passion. The subtle energy behind all healing is stirred by joy, pleasure and passion. Find ways to nourish your soul whenever possible, whether through music, art, creativity, being in nature, or whatever arouses these feelings in you.

Inspirational breathing. Both in our retreats and the home-based program, CFS/FMS sufferers have reported their pain completely gone for a time after using a technique we call Evocative Breath Therapy an enjoyable blending of music, guided imagery and breathing exercises.

Connecting. The social isolation due to physical limitations is one of the greatest challenges of CFS/FMS. Yet, research shows that supportive relationships promote physical healing. Invest in relationships that support you, and practice saying "no" to those that don't.

Letting go of the outcome. It is a paradox that when we let go of striving for an outcome, an inner relaxation arises that enables our healing responses to work at their maximum. Replace your focus on future outcomes with an attitude of trust that your highest good will prevail.

Source: This article was reprinted with permission from its author, Dr. William Collinge.