THE 3 BEST EXERCISES FOR FIBROMYALGIA AND CHRONIC PAIN

You’ve been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and suffer with chronic pain. The movement and exercise you used to do just aren’t possible anymore because they induce flare ups and inflammation. You’re devastated and frustrated. I know exactly how you feel. I went through the same thing after my diagnosis 10 years ago. Afraid of my favourite exercises because now they hurt my body. I’ve learned to redefine what movement means and incorporate new and gentler ways to keep exercise in my life.

1. Flexibility/Mobility Work — Move your joints by focusing on gentle movements — Foam rolling is my absolute favourite modality. You can do it anywhere; it’s quick and easy. Foam rolling your fascia brings oxygenated blood into your cells which promotes healthy fascia growth. Rolling also improves flexibility, improves range of motion and decreases inflammation. Be careful if you are in a flare cycle as foam rolling may be a bit uncomfortable. Yoga is fantastic for keeping your body moving without adding any unnecessary stress on your muscles and joints. It’s also fantastic for stress reduction and mindfulness.
2. Mindfulness Practices — Tai Chi, Meditation, and QiGong are gentle exercises that focus on holistic wellness and the power of the mind to heal the body. They help reduce stress, improve flexibility, stamina, mobility and calmness. But don’t be fooled, they are challenging in their own right.
3. Strength Training/Lifting Weights — Strong muscles keep your fascia, muscles, bones, and heart healthy. Weight training also keeps your weight under control which is important because the more weight you carry can have a direct connection in the amount of pain and inflammation you experience. Small number of repetitions and low weights (or none at all) is the best option. Monitor how your body reacts and how much recovery time you need. The most important thing is to keep your body moving.

A chronic diagnosis like Fibromyalgia definitely requires you to reassess your mindset about movement and your current exercise regime, but it’s not the end of your active lifestyle. The more open-minded you are about trying new things, the more successful you’ll be at finding exercise that makes your body feel good. You’re going to discover some amazing things your body is going to love and thank you for!!!