Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition that affects the muscles of the body in a generalized way, producing pain that is usually felt in many areas. This widespread pain can impact many aspects of one’s life and disrupt jobs, hobbies, and relationships. Previously, we discussed dietary strategies that can be employed to minimize the inflammatory process in the body. In this article, we will continue the concept, “…what else can I do to help myself?” When you adopt the dietary recommendations described previously with the exercise recommendations that will be presented here, this combination will have a dramatic effect on minimizing the activity disabling qualities of fibromyalgia.
Let’s break exercise down into three categories: strengthening, stretching, and aerobics. It is recommended you choose exercises from each category that are most appealing to you so you can develop a “regular habit” with these approaches. Recognize that as long as you’re breathing, you will need to exercise. It’s not like, “…once I get into shape, I can stop and enjoy my healthy condition that I’ve worked hard to achieve.” Hence, make exercise automatic – something that you look forward to doing (not dreading). Presented here are three categories of exercises – choose several from each category and mix them up – and do it EVERY DAY!!!
STRETCHING
A. LAY ON YOUR BACK
B. STANDING
C. SITTING
STRENGTHENING
A. LAYING DOWN
B. STANDING
C. SITTING
AEROBICS
A. LAYING DOWN
B. STANDING
C. SITTING
* Bruegger’s Stretch: Sit up VERY straight, extend the arms back (straight elbows) spread fingers, tuck chin, breath full/slowly and repeat 3 times.