Living with Lupus – Part III
Filed Under Naturopathy |
Being diagnosed with lupus is no longer the death sentence it used to be. Many lupus sufferers live long and productive lives. It is all about being positive and hopeful about your success. If you have a negative attitude about your disease, then the negativity is what will make you sick. Many people live with chronic illnesses everyday and live a very happy life. Just because you have a chronic illness doesn’t mean you have to live as if you are chronically ill.
With some planning and care you should be able to stay ahead of your lupus and live a life that is full. Here is what I recommend:
Get a good night’s sleep. The body needs time to recharge and to perform self-maintenance. It does this when we sleep, so give your body about eight hours of good restful sleep every night.
Get plenty of rest. Rest is not the same as sleep. By rest, I mean give your mind and body a break. Try to lay down for a brief rest a couple of times a day. If you can’t do this, then take a mind-body break a few times during the day by closing your eyes for 10 minutes and thinking good thoughts.
Be active. Exercise is great for the body and the soul. But don’t overdo it, as lupus tends to affect the joints. If you can, try swimming or even walking in a pool. Water is very gentle to the joints and provides a great way to exercise the body.
Listen to your body. If you are tired, then rest. You are not in a competition, so please don’t overdo it.
De-stress. Stress can play havoc on the body. There are a variety of ways to manage stress: yoga, meditation, taking a bath, listening to music, journaling, or painting. Everyone is different; find what works best for you and practice it daily.
Talk about it. Keeping your emotions inside can only lead to stress and illness. So talk about your feelings – your fears, what scares you, and the like.
Stay out of the sun. The sun is not a friend of lupus; it can actually trigger a flair-up. Maximum strength sun block, loose-fitting breathable fabric, and even a wide-brim hat will help keep the sun off your skin. Also, stay indoors during the sun’s strongest part of the day.
Avoid crowds or people with infections. Your immune system is already compromised. There’s no need to tax it further.
Eat nutritiously. Food is fuel for the body. If you give the body good sources of fuel it will have the tools needed to help combat illness and give you energy.
Do not smoke. Nicotine hurts the body; it doesn’t help it.
Do not combine drugs and herbal remedies. Many people today want to be more proactive in their health, and this is good! But always check with your doctor before starting any health care regimen.
Be prepared for your doctor visits. Keep a list of issues, concerns, or changes in your condition. Partner with your doctor; he or she is there to help you.
Be proactive. Learn everything you can about your lupus. Armed with knowledge, you are powerful!
You are not alone – there are many other people in your situation. A support group is only a phone call away. Start or find one in your area! Be an active participant in your lupus care!
In health and wellness,
Dr. Linda Mundorff
