Meditation

I have been mediating now almost everyday for a few months - and it has helped loads....I am taking this one step further and will be doing a course on TM next weekend

For now this is my fav guided one so far - if you have one you use please do add it ...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lP8YoYWL_rE&list=PL279C87D86B0EEA44&index=5&feature=plpp_video

I love the idea of meditation and mindfulness but for migraine it just doesn't work for me. I'm much better with distraction, walking in nature is the best way for me to nip a less severe migraine in the bud and deal with it, meditating or focusing inward makes me agitated and much worse.

I used to be like that - it has taken me the best part of a year to be able to 'switch' off the brain............ you have to do what works for you and just keep trying things.......... I beukyo breath when I meditate and I have to do that bit as it does not work - I sometimes switch off to what she is saying and do not repeat anything she says in my head.......... in some way I think it is the controlled breathing that helps me switch off........... we shall see what TM brings next weekend as I am not sure I will be able to do this if I have to make a sound.........

I learned some relaxation techniques while undergoing therapy at a nearby university. One technique involved computer-based bio-feedback to discover how to relax mind and body. The other was a form of self-hypnosis where you learn to use your imagination to place yourself in a pleasant location and to dispose of sensations of pain.

Both techniques work on low to moderate levels of pain provided I have a clear mind and am fully alert. Unfortunately, these days, the first symptom to appear is a "mind fog" and I'm not capable of the discipline needed to perform either technique. I suspect the same difficulty would arise with meditation.

I have tried using relaxing or meditative music, but that just makes me more "out of it" and emotionally numb. On the other hand, cheerful, lively music, provided there is absolutely no percussion sounds, seems to have the opposite effect.

I have just ordered a meditation book with CD by jon kabat-zinn, I hope this helps. I have tried to meditation on my own before with limited success...fingers crossed!

I have just come back froma 3 day course on TM.....

AND I transcended ..................... seems I may have done it on my own before too - so happy bunny........... I would highly recommend this course to anyone and everyone - esp those who run busy lives or are ill or just need some peace and calm around them......... and also those who already meditate as this takes it to a different level ..

http://www.meditationtrust.com/already-learned.html
or
http://www.tm-meditation.co.uk/index.htm

Not sure where you are - but its worth trying to find a teacher near you x

thanks for the links I will certainly look at going on the next course. I need to do something to help me manage the pain before I do something desperate. x

I just sent in my application for a 10 day meditation retreat!! While I am looking forward to it, I am also a little apprehensive. It is pretty hardcore, but my therapist has strongly suggested that I do the full 10 days. She actually had another patient who had very similar problems and a similar personality who did this same course with a very good outcome. My husband and I have extensively researched this course, and we both think it will be good for me! So, I will let you know if I am accepted!! Also, after I go on the retreat, I will definitely keep you guys up-to-date!
Carla

I have started CD unfortunately 2 of the sessions jump on the cdo so I have had to send for a replacement but I can do the other sessions. Fell asleep the first time I listen to it. But it says to do every day if youfeel like it for not. It's fairly hard to sustain the 'moment' but going to keep at it.

Oh Carla that sounds wonderful I would love to do this - I am looking at a 3 day one - I have a limit on how long I can leave the kids for - But do let us know how you get one.....

Any news on when you will see the new doc?

H - Do not worry about falling a asleep or trying to stay in the moment - it is natural to come to thoughts as you mediate - just acknowledge they are there and then go back to listening - do not get cross about it - just let it go - over time it will be come easier ... x

Hey Tee,
Well, my husband and I just found out that we have to move in a few weeks, so it looks like my visit to the doctor will have to be put off until we can get settled. The good news is that I am doing very well right now! Excited about the move, and about the meditation retreat after.
Carla