Pain Awareness Month in September is a month dedicated to raising awareness about the silent and often misunderstood epidemic of chronic pain.

My ideas about this subject are shaped by my own experience with chronic pain. I am often asked ‘what do you find  helps with pain’? However, I  don’t have  a simple answer. Anyone who has read  my series of blog posts, following my stroke, and emergence of  central pain syndrome, will discover along the way I’ve tried so many things, from physio, acupuncture, massage, saunas to mindfulness and meditation. I have  been seduced into trying lotions, potions, and gadgets. After  several years I’ve learned that it takes time to come to terms with chronic pain, to accept just how difficult it is to treat, and that there are no ‘quick fixes’.

A variety of tools are beneficial for managing chronic pain

Chronic pain is a common disabling illness that does not completely respond to current medical treatments. A variety of tools are beneficial for managing it. For example, the practice of mindfulness meditation. There is growing evidence  that mindfulness practice produces real changes in the brain , and may lead to changes in pain tolerance and pain intensity ratings.

What is  mindfulness?

It’s a mental practice that involves paying focused and non-judgmental attention to the present moment. In other words being fully aware of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the environment without trying to change or judge them. Mindfulness encourages acceptance of the present moment as it is and can be cultivated through meditation, breathing exercises, or simply by consciously being present in everyday activities. Research has shown that mindfulness is a simple but powerful way to enhance several cognitive functions. It can improve attention, relieve pain and reduce stress.

Below is video that provides a more detailed explanation of  mindfulness meditation for  chronic pain from Stanford Medicine.

Healthy Aging  Month observed in September, offers a month-long opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of proactively preserving and enhancing physical, mental, and emotional health as individuals advance in age. It underscores the idea that aging doesn’t have to be synonymous with a decline in health or quality of life and encourages people to explore ways to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives as they grow older.

Healthy living is a fundamental component of healthy aging, and adopting and sustaining health-promoting practices throughout one’s life can significantly enhance resilience and create opportunities for a thriving, fulfilling journey through all stages of life, from infancy to older adulthood.

By making choices that prioritize health and well-being at every age, individuals can:

1. Build a Strong Foundation: Starting with a focus on health in infancy and childhood sets the stage for a lifetime of well-being. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and early healthcare can establish a strong foundation for healthy aging.
2. Promote Longevity: Healthy living practices, such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking, can contribute to a longer and more vital life.
3. Enhance Quality of Life: As individuals move through adolescence and adulthood, healthy choices continue to be crucial. Staying active, managing stress, and fostering positive relationships all contribute to an improved quality of life.
4. Mitigate Age-Related Challenges: Healthy aging practices in middle and older adulthood can help mitigate common age-related challenges. These include maintaining cognitive function, preventing chronic diseases, and preserving mobility and independence.
5. Adaptability and Resilience: Adopting healthy habits throughout life enhances one’s ability to adapt to life’s changes and challenges, making it easier to navigate the transitions and uncertainties that come with aging.
6. Continued Engagement: Staying mentally, socially, and emotionally engaged in later life can promote a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Pursuing lifelong learning, maintaining social connections, and pursuing hobbies and passions contribute to thriving in older adulthood.

Healthy aging practices aren’t limited to a specific age group but are relevant and beneficial throughout the entire lifespan. They provide a framework for building resilience and creating opportunities for a fulfilling and thriving life, regardless of one’s age. By investing in health and well-being at every stage, individuals can optimize their chances for a vibrant and satisfying aging experience.

Image: istockphoto

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