Tackling My Mental Health

I’ve been tackling my mental health again, it’s always very up and down as long as I can remember.

*Trigger Warning*

I struggle to ask for help as many do when suffering mental health issues but after a few big wobbles earlier this year I decided I really needed to deal with my mental health better. I was already struggling and very wobbly when again, my benefits were messed around with due to DWP not even attempting to read my doctors notes.

Obviously the huge cut in money left me feeling awful, a burden to my family making them suffer and go without because my physical and mental health is rubbish. Building up yet more debt because we only just finished paying off the loan we took from them last time they messed up. Add to that the fact I’ve felt like a burden and waste of space since a young age, I was seriously considering how easily I could escape it all by jumping out of our 11th floor window. The Mr thankfully saw how much I was struggling and talked to me about trying to get counselling again.

Inclusion Thurrock

There is a self referral programme called Inclusion Thurrock that offers a few services to help those struggling with their mental health. I attended a few CBT session here previously but after a few sessions I ran away knowing I’d simply get discharged.

I found CBT unhelpful for me but I’ve recently learnt I need trauma focussed CBT due to my PTSD and panic disorder thanks to the therapist who is still trying to assess me after two appointments.

Knowing my past is a bit much for some people can make it difficult to open up and talk about the really bad parts, I used to try and blurt through the blog but then found it hard to write how I really felt. I can laugh and joke and tell stories like I wasn’t there and it was all fun and games but my new therapist is quite easy to talk to and I’ve managed to spill a bit already and realising I’m not making myself worse but my past was more traumatic than I believed/still believe at times so it does have a big impact on my day to day life.

EMDR

My therapist has suggested trauma focussed CBT and EMDR to help me process my memories and move forward. Tackling my mental health is more than just making me feel better, our mental health affects those around us too and I’m very aware of that. I don’t want the girls growing up struggling because they’ve seen me go through it and I want them to see that its ok to ask for help.

EMDR utilises the natural healing ability of your body. After a thorough assessment, you
will be asked specific questions about a particular disturbing memory. Eye movements,
similar to those during REM sleep, will be recreated simply by asking you to watch the
therapist’s finger moving backwards and forwards across your visual field. Sometimes, a
bar of moving lights or headphones is used instead. The eye movements will last for a
short while and then stop. You will then be asked to report back on the experiences you
have had during each of these sets of eye movements. Experiences during a session may
include changes in thoughts, images and feelings.
With repeated sets of eye movements, the memory tends to change in such a way that it
loses its painful intensity and simply becomes a neutral memory of an event in the past.
Other associated memories may also heal at the same time. This linking of related
memories can lead to a dramatic and rapid improvement in many aspects of your life.

I have to admit at first I thought it sounded a bit silly but reading more into it I’m feeling hopeful it may help and willing to give it a go as my mental health affects me constantly and the constant memories and flashbacks make me react differently to how I would usually, I can become panicky, think people are annoyed for no reason, jump at little noises etc as well as affecting my mood.

Not Giving Up

This week my therapist is on holiday and I’m determined to pick up the phone next week when she is back unlike my previous therapist. I felt like I had traumatised her simply by explaining BDSM. I didn’t feel she was able to cope with my being completely honest about what I had seen and grown up around so when she went on holiday I took the opportunity to not return. Thankfully my current therapist doesn’t seem as horrified by what I tell her, obviously she thinks it’s all horrible but I don’t feel like I’m traumatising her at least which is giving me more confidence.

Anyone that has followed my blog a while will know I quite often get side tracked and bounce from one subject to another and thankfully my therapist also let’s me do this without interrupting which is quite helpful as often I find several things from my past all link to how I’m feeling and reacting to situations now and she let’s me blurt that and how I see the link but can’t shut it down, hence the suggestion of trying EMDR.

I’m hoping I can tackle my mental health and start making some progress. I spent so long ignoring what I went through as a child and teenager, making jokes out of it all that I didn’t realise the impact it’s had on my way of thinking especially about myself. I knew my past messed me up a little bit but I didn’t realise how traumatic it really was.

I’m catching myself now and realising, things like when the Mr accidentally knocking my wax burner, I found a way to blame myself. I instantly felt guilty, it’s my fault, I shouldn’t have put it there, shouldn’t have put it on then, should have told him it was on, shouldn’t want something so silly just because it looks cool and smells nice, wasted money on a pathetic want because I’m a selfish bitch.

In the moment this all feels real, looking back it’s absolutely ridiculous and as the Mr said, it was simply an accident which he cleared up and put right. Yet I still kept berating myself. The hardest part is realising it when I calm down, seeing how ridiculous my reactions are and then I wonder how on earth the Mr puts up with this shit on a daily basis. How bloody annoying it must be! Hopefully trying a different style of CBT and trying EMDR will help with this as I am truly fed up with my past messing with my present.

Reaching Out

Have you been struggling with your mental health or tackling your mental health? I imagine lots of us are right now, I hope if you are you can find a service that can offer some help. If it doesn’t feel like it’s helping talk up, there may be another service they can offer or recommend that may be more beneficial. Please don’t do what I did and give up.

Having explained to my therapist what happened last time, she reminded me not everyone will click with every therapist and we are fully within our right to ask to see someone else if we don’t feel comfortable. I feel a bit silly now as I could have worked through these issues years ago had I spoken up and asked to see someone else but I’m determined to tackle this properly now and if I don’t feel comfortable I will be asking for a different therapist or therapy instead of struggling for a few more years then 6 months waiting for help!

If anyone is ever struggling please remember my social media DM’s and blog email (relentlesslypurple@gmail.com) are always open for a rant or a blurt. I may not have the answers or be able to help you heal but quite often I can listen, sympathise, make stupid jokes and help find local services that may help you. Tackling mental health is tricky but having people to blurt to can make a huge difference!

Making Happy Work – Book Review

I was kindly sent Making Happy Work to review written by Mick Timpson. This book is a beginners guide to navigating the modern world with meditation. As someone who suffers anxiety and depression, meditation can be really helpful. Modern meditation is the art and science of being more aware of yourself, others and the wider world.

Making Happy Work

Making Happy Work

Mick Timpson has created a self-help book to take you on a meditation journey. This journey is broken down into eight parts. Step-by-step, Making Happy Work teaches you to meditate. Teaching you that the key to making happy work is not what you do in life that matters, but how you live through your life.

I know I often stress over the things I do or don’t do in live but reading Making Happy Work makes it easier to look at things from a different perspective.

We have all become a little disconnected from who and what we are. Living in an increasingly chaotic world, struggling to survive, let alone thrive! Unfortunately, we are doing so at the expense of being. If we make time to stop, notice, and learn to be, we can reconnect and link our being with our doing. We can learn to be and do differently. Making Happy Work gently guides you through how meditation works, practising meditation and different techniques.

Focus

Meditation helps you find direction and purpose in a chaotic world. Learning to slow down and Be instead of just Doing makes a world of difference. This practice of purposely focusing on the present moment at any time and place, observing and accepting without judgment, expectation or attachment reduces stress and anxiety. In turn, this allows you to focus on what really matters and that is being happy, having purpose, resilience, creativity and wellbeing.

Have you tried meditation before?

Peripheral Neuropathy – What Is It?

Peripheral Neuropathy is one of my diagnosis’ and the one that affects me the most. I noticed recently that people I talk to have no idea what it is or how it affects me day to day. To be perfectly honest, I only really started researching it properly myself recently.

Peripheral Neuropathy - What Is It?

When I was diagnosed I took it very much as an ‘it’s all in your head’ diagnosis. I’ve since realised just how serious Peripheral Neuropathy and decided it was time I talked about it properly on the blog. I haven’t written about my chronic pain in a while although I have a huge range of symptoms that affect me, suffer from ‘flare ups’ and it can leave me feeling really low. I wanted to look at exactly what Peripheral Neuropathy is and for my own benefit, noted some of my issues to look back on.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the peripheral nerves, the network of nerves outside of the central nervous system. This develops when the peripheral nerves in the hands, legs and feet are damaged. These nerves include sensory nerves which transmit sensations such as pain and touch, motor nerves which control muscles and autonomic nerves which control things such as blood pressure, heat intolerance, altered sweating and bladder function. It can also affect other areas of your body.

Peripheral neuropathy may affect just one nerve (mononeuropathy), two or more nerves in different areas (multiple mononeuropathy) or many nerves (polyneuropathy). Most people with peripheral neuropathy have polyneuropathy as I do, which affects so much of the body!

Symptoms

There are many symptoms of Peripheral neuropathy. I suffer from most of them but some I only recently realised are related to my PN!

Sensory neuropathy symptoms include:

  • Prickling and tingling sensations/ pins and needles in the affected part of the body. (This is almost constant for me)
  • Numbness and less of an ability to feel pain or changes in temperature, particularly in your feet. (This explains why my feet are always too cold and numb! Yes, I can step on a lego and feel nothing now)
  • A burning or sharp pain, typically in your feet. (Sometimes this reaches up to my calf)
  • Feeling pain from very light touches that should not be painful. (Allodynia – Explains my unexplained pain)
  • Loss of balance or coordination caused by less ability to tell the position of feet or hands. ( Sensory ataxia – which explains by episodes of falling and genral clumsiness!)

Motor neuropathy symptoms include:

  • Twitching and muscle cramps (I often joke about the ‘aliens’ jumping in my legs!)
  • Muscle weakness or paralysis affecting one or more muscles (Some days my arms and legs just don’t want to work!)
  • Thinning (wasting) of muscles.
  • Foot drop – difficulty lifting up the front part of your foot and toes, particularly noticeable when walking. (This explains my tripping over my feet a lot!)

Autonomic neuropathy symptoms include:

  • Constipation or diarrhoea, particularly at night. (I thought this was due to IBS although I failed to continue investigating with the GP when I hit a low patch)
  • Feeling sick, bloating and belching. (I guess that explains my huge manly burps and ability to burp talk)
  • Low blood pressure, which can make you feel faint or dizzy when standing up. ( I have this on and off)
  • Rapid heartbeat. (Tachycardia – this is made worse by my anxiety) 
  • Excessive sweating or a lack of sweating. (I seem to alternate between the two)
  • Problems with sexual function, such as erectile dysfunction in men. (Does too tired and sore count for women?)
  • Difficulty fully emptying your bladder of urine  (I used to think it was great I could go all day without needing a wee but it has gradually become more painful and harder to fully empty my bladder!)
  • Bowel incontinence (loss of bowel control – Luckily something I’ve only experienced a few times so far)

Damage to the autonomic nerves can result in a wide range of symptoms depending on where in the body the damage occurs.

Mononeuropathy symptoms includes:

  • Altered sensation or weakness in the fingers. (Something I have noticed an increase of lately)
  • Double vision or other problems focusing your eyes, sometimes with eye pain. (I have always had issues with my vision and focus and regularly get bolts of pain in my eyes)
  • Weakness on one side of your face (Bell’s palsy – I have issues with the left side occasionally but I put this down to dislocating my jaw and stupidly punching it back into place)
  • Foot or shin pain, weakness or altered sensation (A daily occurrence)

These symptoms can also disrupt sleep, make moving arms or legs difficult, affect pupil size, make skin blotchy and red and affect mental health.

Causes

Peripheral Neuropathy can be caused by a number of things. These can include:

  • Diabetes
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Inflammatory infections
  • Auto-immune diseases
  • Exposure to toxins
  • Tumors
  • Poor nutrition
  • Hereditary disorders
  • Kidney failure
  • Alcoholism 
  • Certain medications

As with me, even with investigations, the causes of peripheral neuropathy often remain unknown and are called Idiopathic neuropathy. I think mine may be due to a combination of injuries such as cracking my head open on a metal door frame and being run over (my entire leg was run over) as a child. Throughout my teens I cracked my rib, dislocated my jaw along with countless other ‘minor’ injuries. As I never attended hospital for most of these, apart from the Jaw as my college tutor mate another student take me to a&e, I can’t be sure.

Treatment

With Peripheral Neuropathy treatment focuses on managing the condition and relieving symptoms but there is no cure. Medications can help manage symptoms such as pain killers.

If your symptoms are severe you may be prescribed medications containing opioids such as tramadol and oxycodone. I currently take Tramadol to relieve the pain but these are addictive so I use them sparingly.

Anti-seizure medications such as gabapentin and pregabalin may help relieve nerve pain. These can leave you drowsy and dizzy though, I often have to sit or lay down for a little while. I take gabapentin 3 times a day and whilst it does leave me sleepy, it is the one medication that I can’t cope without.

Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, doxepin and nortriptyline can help relieve pain. These work by interfering with chemical processes in your brain and spinal cord that cause you to feel pain. The serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor duloxetine and the extended-release antidepressant venlafaxine can also help ease pain caused by peripheral neuropathy. I am currently taking amitriptyline and duloxetine to help manage my symptoms.

Therapies

Therapies include the use of a TENS machine which sends a gentle electric current to the area which it is applied. I do find this is useful sometimes and use mine when I’m really struggling. Physical therapy can help with muscle weakness. However, if like me you have other issues such as scoliosis this may not be appropriate. Finally, there are surgeries and steroid injections available to help ease the pain. I did go for this procedure however, it was unsuccessful for me. I have heard many positive stories about them though and still believe it was worth a try!

Peripheral Neuropathy is hard to live with and manage. I remember when I first started blogging about it, constantly being curled up in agony with no clue why. Luckily my medication makes it more bearable to cope with now. Some days are just too much though as there are so many symptoms. You can never be sure if you are ill or if it’s the Peripheral Neuropathy which can be a pain. Most frustratingly you never know how your day will go. This can cause anxiety and depression which I also suffer from. A Pain clinic can offer you support and provide therapy to help you learn to manage better though.

If you feel you have any of these symptoms please do discuss them with your GP as the sooner it is discovered, the quicker you can get it under control.

Have you heard of Peripheral Neuropathy before?

Smiling Fearlessly With CariPRO – Review & Giveaway

I’ve been smiling fearlessly since I started using the CariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush from Smile Brilliant! I was kindly sent the CariPRO UltraSonic Toothbrush to review and having had it for a few weeks it’s time to let you all know what I think!

Smile Fearlessly - CariPRO Ultasonic Toothbrush

I’ve only used one electric toothbrush before and it wasn’t as great as I hoped. I expected quite a lot of vibration and found it only gently buzzed and it felt no different to a manual brush. I was really excited to try the CariPRO having heard it vibrates 40,000 times per minute! I’m also excited to offer you, my lovely readers a discount code and a giveaway at the end of this post, so read on!

Smile Brilliant

Smile brilliant are teeth whitening experts and have teeth whitening systems as well as the fantastic CariPRO Ultrasonic toothbrushes! They aim to make dental hygiene as enjoyable as possible whilst giving the best whitening and cleaning experience on the market.

CariPRO on senstive mode

CariPRO Ultrasonic Electric ToothBrush

The CariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush removes 7x more plaque than manual toothbrushes. Within just 2 weeks of use, gum health is majorly improved too. With daily brushing, the CariPRO will remove everyday stains giving you a noticeably whiter smile. The best part is that if you aren’t happy within 60 days you can send it back free of charge! On top of that, every CariPRO ultrasonic toothbrush comes with a 2-year warranty. All for a reasonable price too!

What’s In The Box

1 x CariPRO Ultrasonic Electric Toothbrush

  • 40,000 vibrations / minute dynamic cleaning action
  • 5 brush modes (clean, white, massage, gum care, sensitive)
  • 30 day battery life (on full charge)
  • Ergonomic slim design with graphite gray soft-touch grip
  • Waterproof design is safe for shower or bath
  • Auto-interval smart timer for even & timed brushing
  • Wireless charging dock
CariPRO handle

2 x Premium Brush heads with tongue scraper

  • Angled and tufted DuPont™ bristles
  • Graphite gray with vibrant blue silicon exterior
  • Quick-click attachment
CariPRO bursh head

1 x Wireless Induction Charger Dock

  • 100-240v ~ 50/60Hz (works internationally)
  • No exposed metal (charges by setting brush on dock)
  • Matte gray graphite with soft-touch grip

Full 2-Year Warranty

  • Full warranty against manufacturer
  • Retail packaging (individually sealed)
  • Instruction booklet

The package I received is $119 (Roughly £90-95) which is a fantastic price considering the benefits from using the CariPRO ultrasonic toothbrush. You can check out FAQ’s here.

Improving My Dental Hygiene

I don’t hesitate to admit that my teeth are far from being in good condition. During my teen years, I struggled with several ED’s, I then had 3 pregnancies all suffering extreme Hyperemesis Gravidarum. Following that I have had issues with my vitamin levels, all of these issues combined have led to a few fillings, a gold crown and my teeth crumble in odd places due to the lack of calcium absorbed.

Brushing with the CariPRO

All these issues can make me struggle to keep on top of my dental hygiene. When nothing makes a difference you begin to feel like its a waste of time. I was excited to see if the CariPRO helped at all and was genuinely impressed with the results.

Smiling Fearlessly

When you have issues with your teeth it makes you really self-conscious, it’s a struggle to feel like smiling. After the first time using the CariPRO I noticed an immediate change. You feel like you’ve just left the dentist after a good clean! After a few days I noticed my gums were improving and turning pink again. I even felt like I could #SmileFearlessly whilst brushing my teeth! I can see such a noticable difference, my teeth aren’t pure white and never will be but the change is incredible!

#SmileFearlessly

Sensitivity

I like to use the Clean or White mode the most as you can really feel the difference. However, as my teeth are weak I love that the CariPRO has a sensitive mode! Some days I need to swap to sensitive but most of the time I am able to use all the modes. Massage and Gum Care are fantastic for improving the cleanliness and overall health of your gums and as I mentioned before, you really do notice a big difference.

Would I Honestly Recomment CariPRO?

Honestly? For the price, the modes available, the warranty, the fact it makes such a difference to your dental hygiene and motivates you to keep on top of it regularly, I couldn’t recommend the CariPRO Ultrasonic toothbrush more! You really do feel like smiling fearlessly! I love the soft touch handle and how sleek the overall design is too.

Discount

Sound like the perfect toothbrush for you? Fancy smiling fearlessly as well? Enter code – relentlesslypurple20 to receive 20% off your order!

Giveaway

As promised, I’ve teamed up with Smile Brilliant to offer my lovely readers a chance to win a CariPRO Ultrasonic Toothbrush too! Just enter here for your chance to win and smile fearlessly!

electric toothbrush

Trying Bristol CBD Oil To Ease Anxiety

I’ve been trying Bristol CBD Oil after receiving a sample to review. I was sent the 300mg CBD Oil which is a 2,000 mg full spectrum, organic hemp sativa extract. CBD Oil is often reported for it’s health benefits and I was keen to see if it had an impact on my anxiety especially.

Trying Bristol CBD Oil To Ease Anxiety

I have a few different health and mental health issues and I’m always keep to try natural remedies where I can. If you want to try CBD Oil for yourself, enter code PURPLE20 FOR 20% off and free delivery at the checkout.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD Oil is derived from a strain of cannabis plant calle hemp sativa. Hemp Sativa naturally grows with very low levels THC making it legal in the UK. Instead it contains high levels of CBD (cannabidiol) and over 100 different healthy cannibinoids.

CBD Oil is a food supplement rich in cannabinoids and terpenes. CBD works on the endocannabinoid system in the body. Our body productes cannabinoids which are used by the endocannabinoid system. This is responsible for creating a balance (homeostasis) internally. Most of us are unable to produce enough cannabinoids leaving our endocannabinoid system out of balance, resulting in poor health.

CBD Oil bottle

The use of CBD Oil has wide and varied benefits. The World Health Organisation stipulates CBD Oil is non-toxic, non-addictive and non-psychoactive. Research suggest taking CBD oil helps your body create more of the cannibinoids needed, helping maintain balance and wellbeing.

Trying Bristol CBD Oil

The CBD Oil I have been trying came in a little dropper bottle. I read all the instructions and as recommended started with 2 drops to begin with. I wasn’t too sure what to expect from trying the Bristol CBD Oil but I had heard lots of benefits from others. The taste was a little different but I guess that is to be expected. I held the drops under my tongue for a minute then waited to see what happened.

I noticed the CBD Oil had a calming affect on me. With my awful anxiety this was a welcome relief. Being able to feel a little calmer over Christmas even with a few issues and both girls taking turns to have chest infections, was lovely.

I’m looking at getting the next strength bottle next time as there are several different strengths available. Anything that eases my anxiety even slightly is a bonus for me and CBD Oil seems to help. I’m hoping along with my medication and regular self-care, using CBD Oil will make my anxiety much more manageable.

Have you tried CBD Oil before?

Staying Warm With The Hot Water Bottle Shop

I’m staying warm this winter with some gorgeous products from The Hot Water Bottle Shop. They sell a full range of microwavable wheat bags, hot water bottles, slippers and more! Products like these can comfort, ease aches and pains, warm you up and with essential oils such as Lavender help you de-stress and sleep better.

Staying warm this winter with hot water bottle shop

Hot Water Bottles And Microwavable Products

The Hot Water Bottle Shop sell both Hot Water bottles and Microwavable products. If like me you have peripheral neuropathy then microwavable products are best. Hot water bottles can cause severe scolding and peripheral neuropathy may prevent you from feeling this, especially if you have Diabetes Millitus.

If you have no health concerns then hot water bottles are perfectly safe to use. The Hot Water Bottle Shop have a great guide here on how to safely use a hot water bottle.

Heat can help ease a range of issues from arthritis, back pain, cramping, muscle aches, digestion and constipation, pregnancy and period pains, stress, anxiety and  sleeping difficulties.

Staying Warm and Purple!

Warmies - Purple

I was kindly sent this gorgeous Lilac fully microwavable bottle to try out. Due to my chronic pain and peripheral neuropathy, I often feel the cold awfully throughout winter. Products like these are perfect for helping me through winter. With a lovely lavender scent, this microwavable bottle is fantastic for warming up with, easing pains or just feeling comforted and relaxed for a bit. 

Staying warm this winter with the hot water bottle shop

I’m in love with this fluffy bottle of heat, it is so soft and comforting. With the calming lavender scent it is a great way to relax, especially just before bed after a busy day.

Easing Aches And Pains

The Hot Water Bottle Shop kindly sent me an amazing purple, lavender scented microwavable neck warmer too. This lovely Neck Warmer arrived at the perfect time, just as I developed a painful neck ache.

Purple Microwavable Neck Warmer

The neck warmer quickly soothed and eased the muscles in my neck. You can find out how to safely use neck warmers here. They truly are amazing for helping with neck aches and relaxing.

Lavender neck warmer

The Hot Water Bottle Shop is now one of my favourites! They have some lovely products that make fab gifts for adults and older children. I’m now looking forward to staying warm this winter!

Soothing Skin With Eucerin #MyAquaphor

I’m using a Soothing Skin Balm from Eucerin called Aquaphor. Having sensitive skin due to Eczema I often struggle to find products that help.

Soothing Skin with Eucerin Aquaphor

Soothing Skin Balm

I was kindly sent a sample of Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm to try out. Designed to give dry to very dry, cracked and irritated skin the SOS care it needs for all the family. Containing only 8 ingredients, Aquaphor is gentle enough to use on highly irritated skin, babies skin and as a nappy cream.

#MyAquaphor

Protecting skin by creating a breathable protective barrier, Eucerin Aquaphor soothing skin balm allows the skin to breathe. Allowing oxygen and water vapor to circulate to and from the skin helps strengthen it natural barrier function.

Dry Skin

Izzy fell over at school a few weeks back and ended up with a big graze on her chin. Of course, she picked this like mad at first and other creams have done very little. It was so dry and cracked from the cold weather but no longer weeping so I decided to see if Eucerin Aquaphor would help. After a bath, I put some on Izzy’s chin and left it. As you can see below it was quite bad to begin with!

Unicorn Crown

I then forgot to use Eucerin Aquaphor for a day or so and you could see her chin was beginning to irritate Izzy again. We’ve started using it again and it is slowly helping. As you can see below it has gone from an almost heart-shaped scab to 2 smaller scabs and the skin is healing around it at last. Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin balm is amazing!

Izzy's chin is healing using Eucerin Aquaphor

Eczema

I have Eczema and really struggle during the winter with my skin. My arms are full of makes from tearing my arms apart so I thought I’d try using Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm for myself too. After a bath, I slathered my arms in the balm and it instantly felt soothing. Usually, my arms feel on fire even after a cool bath or shower and I can’t stop scratching!

Eczema calming with Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm

I forgot to take a before photo but the photo above shows my arm after a week of use. I suddenly realised I hadn’t been scratching anywhere near as much. There aren’t any fresh scabs where my skin feels much calmer and it is a lovely relief. I can see Eucerin Aquaphor becoming a household essential for us and can see why it has been a household stable since it was first introduced to the US market in 1925.

Have you used Eucerin Aquaphor Soothing Skin Balm before?

*This post is an entry for the BritMums #MyAquaphor Challenge, sponsored by Eucerin. Discover the benefits of Eucerin https://www.eucerin.co.uk/products/aquaphor/soothing-skin-balm-45ml

Chronic Pain Update At 28 Years Old

I’m writing a Chronic pain update at 28 years old since I wrote about Chronic pain at 25. Cleaning up the blog, I came across this post and decided to read it. I have noticed it is a well read post even after 3 years so I figured an update was a good idea.

Chronic Pain Update at 28 years old

Picking Up 

Having had the blog 3 years to vent and moan has been extremely therapeutic and uplifting for me. There has been low points but having the blog, twitter and new people to chat to on bad days has really helped. Having something to focus on has also been a huge help, I enjoy blogging so much!

Keeping Track

At 25 I mentioned that I wanted to document my journey with my physical and mental health. I have done just that and I know it’s helped myself and others. That’s something I’m pretty proud of. When you constantly feel pain you often experience something called brain fog. You can easily forget things, for quite some time over the last year I felt like a fraud. I forgot all about my diagnosis’ and began to think it was all in my head.

Reminders

Seeing old posts being read often makes me re-read them myself. About 6 months ago I relearned that I have peripheral neuropathy. I’d been so stressed I forgot, knowing made so much sense all over again. It seems so ridiculous to forget something like that but I was focusing more on my mental health, discovering I have PTSD as well as Anxiety and Depression. Reading these posts have reminded me I am ill and at home for a reason and I’ve been much kinder to myself. 

Chronic Pain Update

So where are we up to now? Not much has changed to be honest, I collect my repeat prescriptions and only see a GP when necessary. I know we’ve exhausted all options right now. Without being asleep 24/7 I am on all the medication possible to help me. I have severely bad days, worse than ever with even more issues but I am learning to cope better. Today is quite a bad day, I’ve felt extremely hot and sick with pain but I’m taking breaks when I need to. It’s important to not to over do things as you always feel so much worse.

Feeling A Lot More Positive

Whilst things have been getting worse I feel a lot more positive these days. 
With a support network online, the Mr happy to do anything I can’t and me being kinder to myself things are more manageable. I’ve learnt to accept this is the way I am, I just need to pace myself and not push myself too much. I’ve learnt to say no when I don’t feel up to something. I guess I’ve grown a lot over 3 years!

10 Ways To Reduce Stress #StressAwarenessDay

I’m sharing 10 ways to reduce stress as it’s #StressAwarenessDay. Many of us feel stressed out but Chronic stress can really affect your health. In a demanding world, we need to find ways to help reduce the stress in our lives.

10 Ways To Reduce Stress

Stress can suppress your immune system, upset your digestive & reproductive systems, increase the risk of heart attack or stroke and speeds up the ageing process. Stress can also rewire the brain leaving you vulnerable to Anxiety, Depression and other mental health issues.

10 Ways To Reduce Stress

1. Crafting

I find crafting really helps me calm down and live in the moment. Crocheting is my favourite craft to get lost in. Finding a craft you enjoy not only relaxes you but it gives you a sense of achievement too which we often lack. 

2. Music

Listening to your favourite songs is an instant mood booster! I had forgotten just how much of an effect music has until recently. Now I’m listening to something most of the time and I feel much happier and calmer, even though I’m ill and exhausted!

3. Have a bath

In a busy world, it can be tempting to jump into the shower quickly. Taking time to run a nice, warm, bubble bath for yourself and soaking for 10 minutes not only relaxes your muscles but your mind too. Why not light some candles or play your favourite music?

4. Read a book

A lot can be said for getting lost in a book. After a busy summer holiday, I began to enjoy books again. Taking time out to get lost in another world really helps calm your mind. 

5. Talk

Often we get so stressed out with so many thoughts we can get easily confused. Talking things over not only helps you feel heard but it can also help you figure out how to tackle the situation better.

6. Rest

Resting can really help you think more rationally and feel less stressed. That’s not always easy to do but there are several ways to help you fall asleep from hot soothing drinks, white noise, herbal medications and more.

7. Say no

It can be all too easy to say yes and help everyone else out. The problem is we often end up overloaded, but it’s ok to say no! I’m learning this myself and have to admit it is better to say no than to say yes and feel like a letdown. 

8. Treat yourself

Buy yourself something every once in a while, whether it’s your favourite chocolate, new shoes, or even that hot chocolate you (I) always put off! It doesn’t have to break the bank but it will make you feel happier.

9. Eat well

A balanced diet will help you feel more energetic. It’s easy to fall into bad habits but food can really affect our mood. Ensuring you have adequate amounts of nutrients can also help you avoid diet-related diseases.

10. Stop putting yourself down

Often our stress is triggered by our own heads telling us we aren’t doing or being enough. We need to be mindful of our inner voices, ask yourself, would you say that to a friend? Look for the positives and praise all those little ‘wins’ even if that is simply making it out of bed that day.

Getting Help

If talking to friends and family isn’t helping and you feel you need further help, you can contact your GP who can advise you further. CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) or counselling may be offered. There are also several charities you can contact – 

Mind – 
0300 123 3393
info@mind.org.uk
Text: 86463

Call Samaritans free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

Find Psychological therapies locally (England) on the NHS site here.

Do you use any of these to reduce stress?

Healthy Wellness Teas -Adagio Teas


I received Adagio Teas Healthy Wellness Tea range last week. Just in time as I’m focusing more on mental and physical health & wellness on the blog for a few days. This week I’ve shared the mental health benefits of crafting and today I’m sharing some healthy wellness teas that will help your mind and body too.

Health Wellness Teas

Adagio has kindly been sending me different ranges of tea to try out and share with you. I recently shared a large selection of Adagio Teas and their limited edition Wicked Teas, a Halloween special. Whilst reviewing Adagios different tea ranges I’ve become a big fan, each tea is a unique blend full of flavour.

Healthy Wellness Teas Range

Day & Night Collection 

Day & Night Teas From Adagio Teas

Adagio has curated a trio of loose leaf teas for everyday use, specially blended for each phase of the day. Promoting healthy wellness with these teas available individually or as part of the set for £20

Jump Start

Jump Start

Enjoy a cup of tea blended to get you going in the morning, we all have days where we need a morning boost! An invigorating breakfast blend of toasted mate and black tea. Full of cinnamon and cocoa nibs, this warming tea will give you a kick of caffeine without the jitters! I love a morning cup of tea and Jump star has helped a lot this week. I’ve felt so ill I haven’t wanted to leave my bed but Jump start helps me feel a little more human!

Daydream

Daydream Tea From Adagio Tea

Sustain your afternoon with a cup of Daydream! Blended with soul-soothing herbs such as passionflower, lemon balm and lavender. The perfect cuppa for handling daily stress. Perfect for an afternoon or evening break from a busy day. Softly minty with a delicately floral bit of tanginess from hibiscus flowers. This calming blend is oasis in a teacup!

40 Winks


40 Winks From Adagio teas

The perfect cuppa to wind down with and promote healthy sleep, this bedtime tea will lull you into a deep sleep! A commonly used sleep aid, Valerian root is combined with soothing chamomile, spearmint and lavender. I’ve been drinking a cup before bed as my sleep has been awful lately and it does help me drift off much quicker! 

Body & Soul Collection

Body & Soul teas from Adagio Tea

With winter approaching rapidly Adagio have the perfect trio of teas to ease the effects of winter sniffles and promote overall health and wellness. Tea and herbal blends offer care and kindness to your body and soul. Taking a moment to enjoy the comforting qualities is a great way to promote healthy wellness and take 5 minutes out. You can buy each tea individually or as part of the set for £20.

Tea-Tox

Tea-Tox Tea from Adagio Teas

Cleanse your body and lift your spirits with a minty fresh, spicy zest of detox Tea-Tox tea. Naturally caffeine-free with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This blend is specially formulated to aid in restoring your body to its natural state. I love this as a mid-morning tea. It really does leave you feeling perkier.

Throat-Therapy

Throat Thrapy from Adagio teas

A tea blend perfect for your sore throat. A warm and soothing cup of sweet liqorice, calming anise and fresh raspberry leaves. Add a bit of honey for an added coating effect and your sore throat will soon be feeling better! Yesterday I was worried my sore throat was turning into a chest infection so I tried Throat-Therapy and was pleasantly surprised how soothing it was. Hopefully, a few more cups of Throat-Therapy and my sore throat will disappear!

Happy Belly

Happy Belly Tea from Adagio Tea

Specifically blended with Pu Erh and ginger root to encourage stomach and digestive health. Happy Belly combines soothing Senna leaf and the natural sweetness of anise and liquorice. A cup of tea that will keep you tummy content. I’ll no doubt be drinking this tea fairly regularly, medication really affects my digestive system, as does stress. Happy Belly sounds like the perfect cup to calm that down!

Loose Tea

I’m sure you’ll agree these healthy wellness teas sound perfect, especially this time of year!