Posted by Todd (216.199.4.216) on February 23, 2000 at 16:27:57:
In Reply to: Breathing posted by Monique on February 23, 2000 at 13:19:55:
Rather than sit, pace AND deep breathe.
I never thought about it before, but part of my coping technique is to pace and stay CALM. Most likely, by concentrating on staying calm, I'm breathing slowly and presumably deeply, although I've never consciously tried to regulate my breath...just my 'attitude'.
My approach is to eliminate anything that distracts me from dealing with the pain. From that perspective, having to 'force' myself to sit would be counterproductive. The 'open floor plan' and alternating tile and carpet flooring in my house allows me to pace, eyes closed, in a never-ending circle (ok, that was redundant), always knowing where I am by the feel under my feet. No shoes, obviously...bare foot or socks only. Oh, and re-arranging the furniture during a cycle is a definite no-no!