Life’s twists and turns can send you skittering into different places, some light, others dark. While we cannot always offer a panacea for the stress and worry that sometimes engulf us, we can give you some tips and tactics on how to relax during National Relaxation Day!
FREE RELAXATION APPS
Increasingly popular, meditation apps are often found on people's phones. Here's a link to a useful site.
PEER SUPPORT
It's relaxing to talk, especially to someone in a similar situation. A rare illness can leave you feeling isolated and alone, following a solitary journey. But you are NOT alone. At the Marfan Trust we've started a conversation amongst our Marfan community. Peer-to-peer support is invaluable and we'd love you to join the conversation. Email us if you're interested in mentoring others or receiving support yourself.
MARFAN INFORMATION DAY
Knowing how to manage your symptoms brings reassurance. You can relax in the knowledge that you have the power to know what to do. Why not drop in to our Information Day which falls on Saturday, 12 October and learn more about your syndrome. Book your free ticket here.
Dr Anne Child Relaxes in Beauty ...
I love to find Beauty ...:
Classical music (listening, and playing the piano);
Gardening- learning how to help seeds and plants grow and flower - magic! And Reading. I sometimes sit in the sun and listen to the birdsong.
I love feeding the garden birds.
I also love to order takeaways and pretend we are in a restaurant (in our own kitchen)
I enjoy laughing at jokes.
Dr José Aragon-Martin, Research Director
I just try to focus on something that will make my mind forget about my troubles and stress time. Movies, cycling, browsing bookshops/clothing/home improvement help me to relax.
Victoria, Helpline & Communications Manager
My head often crowded with thoughts and 'things to do', I often have to consciously force myself to relax. Doing things with my hands is very therapeutic. I often create a messy meal, paint a wall, or draw a picture. This loosens anxiety’s grip, allowing my thoughts to flow more freely and lucidly.
I also sometimes disappear to the cinema, my favourite occupation! I love to enter a dream world.
Long walks are also a sanctuary for me. Worries melt away the longer the walk.
Joanne Jessup, Clinical Nurse Specialist
I relax in activity. I try and do some form of exercise regularly, a walk, a trip to the gym. I have NEVER regretted doing some exercise, only talking myself out of it. This clears my mind and makes me feel better both mentally and physically
I go out in nature, my children joke that I get a 'Nature Boost'. Be it a hike on the South Downs, a walk on a beach, a camping trip, I definitely get my energy from being in the great outdoors.
Finally, I get in the kitchen and bake. I love the process and the end result!
