3 minute read
LONGEVITY
Relaxation for Fibromyalgia
By Dr. Michelle Clay, DO, CHHC, CCN
Advertisement
increase a sense of well-being, which may dampen the sensation of pain and decrease pain flare-ups. A counselor or therapist can teach strategies for stress management.
TAI CHI may also be a helpful intervention. It combines meditation with a series of movements performed in a slow, graceful manner accompanied by deep breathing and relaxation. These movements are thought to move qi, or vital/life force, throughout the body in a smooth and balanced flow along pathways called meridians. Research supports that tai chi increases a sense of calm, peace, stress reduction and quality of life for fibromyalgia patients.
For those suffering with fibromyalgia, incorporating relaxation techniques can improve quality of life. Committing to a relaxation routine is a declaration of self-love and self-care. We all should have the courage to love ourselves enough to commit.
Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by diffuse pain in the muscles accompanied by tender points on various places on the body, such as the neck, shoulders, back, hips and extremities. Patients often describe the pain as a constant dull ache. The condition may be accompanied by fatigue, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, abdominal cramping and headaches. TREATMENT
Pharmacologic treatments have their place in the pain management of fibromyalgia, but the best philosophy is to treat the root cause, not just mask the symptoms. Since chronic stress is one of the most common precipitating factors, stress release and relaxation strategies are paramount in the treatment of fibromyalgia.
“We should be cautious about overmedicating patients and keeping them on continued medications. We worry about the side
36 INSPIRE HEALTH March § April 2016 effects. Non-pharmacologic therapies have no risks," states Dr. Mary-Ann Fitzcharles, a rheumatologist at McGill University in Montreal.
MIND-BODY THERAPIES such as meditation, massage, yoga and deep-breathing exercises are non-pharmacologic therapies that can be helpful relaxation techniques for treating fibromyalgia. Interventions such as intentional or mindful breathing exercises and movement may decrease anxiety and depression, as well as
AD
Better Health begins here
By Suzanne Fox
Visitors are inspired by Southern California’s natural beauty, with views of the Santa Monica Mountains and 20 acres of themed gardens surrounding the property, all just a short The California Health & Longevity Institute® at The Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village, California, offers the luxury known to all as The Four Seasons AAA Five Diamondrated hotel along with a variety of signature health and lifestyle experiences that will leave you with the tools you need to make a sustainable life change.
Yoga in the rose garden
drive from Los Angeles and Malibu. Explore everything the area has to offer at one of the country’s most beautiful destinations with hiking, biking, yoga and surfing, all at your fingertips. Outdoor recreation opportunities combined with an award-winning spa, indoor and outdoor pools and Four Seasons service create a one-of-a-kind destination for rejuvenation.
In the comfort of the Four Seasons, you can take advantage of the five-day Weight Loss Training Package, which provides tools and strategies for achieving sustainable weight loss goals with elements tailored to your personal needs complete with fitness assessments, personal training, nutrition consultation, wellness-based handson cooking classes, dining and nutrition experiences, a grocery store tour, daily health strategy sessions and alternative medicine treatments of your choice.
Top left: Wellness kitchen teaching garden Top right: California Health and Longevity Institute Bottom: indoor lap pool
“Our goal is simple, to improve your
quality of life and longevity.” - Becky Leehey, Executive Director
California Health & Longevity Institute at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village Westlake Village, CA | 818-575-1422 | www.chli.com www.betterhealthbeginshere.com
