Ok, so whether we are a patient or a carer there are times when we get angry or frustrated either because of our inability to do something, or just because of our situation. For the more able they would get on their cycles, go for a brisk walk, dance, but any suggestions as to what you can do if physical activities tire you?
Understanding and accepting my new limitations has been something I’ve really struggled with. I’ve recently had some sessions with a pain management therapist and we’ve done some work around things like pacing and prioritising. And sometimes, I’ve just had to work at being kinder to myself…As for how I might get it out when physically limited, what I’ve done sometimes is - in the privacy of my home of course 
- is make up new words for a tune I know and let vent that way
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Louise, I think it is natural to feel angry for so many reasons and perhaps not all physical, I think there are so many losses involved as well.
Music is my big distraction and getting out in the fresh air and even a very short walk helps, they say it clears the head and perhaps it helps to.
I think it is OK to be frustrated and angry though as long as it does not become a permanent state and effect others, scream into your pillow, I say.
I think I have done more harm to myself by pushing emotions down inside me.
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I agree with everyone here… its been three years since I finished treatment and I am still learning a lot about the new me and my ‘new normal’
One of them being exactly as you all explain here… frustration and how to cope. The main thing I’ve used is my writing; I write my blog, I write poetry, quotes, use mind mapping etc and this has helped in a big way. It really helps me to put my anger / frustration onto paper.
And music … I love music of all sorts and it always helps lift my mood. I’m often prancing around my house and depending on my energy levels it may get a little crazy!!
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Ooooh, I love my music too, anything from the 60’s on.
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Me too Erica… I have a very mixed taste, rock, pop, classical and so on! Actually today Collabro (who won Britain’s Got Talent in 2014) who specialise in Musical Theatre which I love as my Dad was involved in the local theatre so growing up I was often dancing around the house to Joseph, West Side Story, The Sound of Music and so on have a new album out (their 4th)! Anyway I have been playing it over and over and its done the trick… lifted my mood and I’ve sorted through a load of paperwork while singing along!! Do you like musical theatre?? Its got one of my all time favs Maria from West Side Story and a Jersey Boys Medley! Today is a good day!
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Hi Anna, I am not so much musical theatre, although I do like the Andrew Lloyd-Webber and Tim Rice musicals and the productions like We will rock you etc. I am more likely to be humming something from the pop charts over the years. I always say ‘cut me open and there will be music playing inside’.
Yes today is a good day, take lots of care.
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How did your sessions with the pain management therapist work out?
@AnnaMam and @Erica whats the best genre of music you think would best lift your mood?
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Joshua, @Joanna and @AnnaMam, I taught myself pain management and pilates helps so, so much. Mind you for my osteoporosis my GP advised lying on my back for 1/2hr during the day and that helps as I also have a nap. I do not do it every day and it does not have to be a long as 1/2 to help.
The genre of music that would best lift my mood would have to be heavy metal and I would sing along, out of tune, very loudly. I think romantic music gives me the feel good factor, I wonder what others think?
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In that case Erica you will love what Collabro sing, you should check them out, its great therapy!
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Thanks, I will check them out, take care, Anna.
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hmmm it hard to choose which music lifts my mood… I have a playlist on Apple music which I am adding to all of the time! Sometime something from the old days like Aha or something current which has a good beat or melody! Always have Take on me by Aha in my playlist both the original and acoustic versions, love Nothing Else Matters by Metalica especially the version by Lucie Silvas, I play Adventure of a Lifetime by Coldplay a lot, Mr Blue Sky by ELO, This Girl by Kungs, Don’t Stop Me Now, Queen… and so the list goes on.!!!
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Anna, my playlist is also never ending and varied from the '60’s on, I could talk forever on the subject of my music loves, but it’s past my bedtime.
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Haha, I love a good boogie too!
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I don’t do evenings so it would have to be a Bloodwise Karaoke afternoon hot sing and dance which I could Boogie and sing along with Anna and I bet we could get you up on the dance floor Josh.
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@Pisces56 I think this is such a good topic, because for some exercise or physical activities are what they enjoy and is often then part of their fundraising - but not everyone can or wants to cycle/run/swim, and so even if those were activities enjoyed before, they may be too much for someone especially during treatment or during tough patches of fatigue or recovery.
What do you guys do that helps you feel calm or relaxed? Do you crochet? Do crosswords? Have you discovered a new love of crime novels?
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@DawnBloodCancerUK. As my physical health is such that even walking for a period can tire me, and other complications are making themselves known, I relax with more gentle pursuits. I can now read or immerse myself in tv dramas without feeling guilty that I should be doing something else (throwback to my days as a teacher). I listen to music, although unable to play anymore because I get backache. I can meet with friends. Also, during this past year I have regular massages with a lady who mixes the oils for my particular needs. When the fatigue is such that I can’t even concentrate on a tv drama or book I enjoy watching the wildlife in our garden. I wear my good jewellery every day and not just for best, and just make the most of the good things in my life
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