It might not be as simple as it sounds, but adopting a “don’t worry, be happy” attitude is a helpful step toward reducing your pain and stress. Here are some of our favorite ways to improve your attitude:
“Get a hobby,” says Dr. Michael Moon, founder and medical director of Pain Care of San Diego. “Finding a hobby and giving yourself time to do what you enjoy is going to improve your quality of life and your outlook on it.”
“Stretch and massage can do a world of good,” says Dr. Danny Song, Pain Care’s Doctor of Chiropractic. “Just starting your day with a huge ‘good-morning’ stretch is going to put you on the right path.” “Getting a therapeutic massage or taking a yoga class is even better,” adds physician’s assistant Elisa Vera.
“Hit the beach,” says Pain Care’s board certified anesthesiologist, Dr. Charlie Nahm. “Staring out toward the ocean is incredibly uplifting. Walking along side it is great for your body as well as your mind.”
“Turn up your favorite song,” is the advice that Pain Care’s pain psychologist, Sabina Sehgal, gives. “Listening to music that takes you back to a happy time is a terrific way to improve mood.”