Posted by drummer (209.105.134.88) on August 31, 1999 at 07:06:16:
In Reply to: Cognitive Restructuring for Gary G. et al posted by Michelle C. on August 31, 1999 at 00:40:19:
My two cents. Yes I agree. As a chronic sufferer I often find myself saying, “OK here we go again; I can do this”. I sit and rock and breathe Oxygen deeply. I breathe and rock at a steady rhythm. I find that even music played in the background; whether it be loud or soft, helps with my concentration on the pain and the rhythm. If I get hit with an attack at work: it’s out to the car; radio on, sitting, rocking, breathing, moaning, ALONE. Believe it or not; I am relaxed. I may not look relaxed; what with the rocking and moaning, but I am relaxed.
With that said; On the rare occasion when I have a week like last week. (Switching my preventative medications). I was getting “hit” with Cluster attacks every 2-3 hours. NOW: sleep deprivation plays a strong role in my ability to “relax” through the torture of a Cluster attack. On these occasions I may revert back to the way I use to handle my Cluster attacks. Head banging, pacing, panicking, breathing quickly. These things don’t help me “relax” and often make the attack worse.
P.S I have no earthly idea what biofeedback means. I also have to agree with DJ that if someone tried to hold my hand and talk to me in a low monotone voice during a Cluster attack; I would probably kill that person.