An important part of BAIRE is recognizing pain and making thoughtful adjustments so you can continue moving through life.
But another part - one that can be much harder - is learning to rest.
Not just rest.
Rest without guilt.
So often, we feel guilty for taking the break our body is asking for. We worry that we're falling behind or missing out because we simply can't do what we had planned - not today, or not right now.
I know that stopping isn't always easy.
But for just a moment, let's do exactly that.
Pause.
Close your eyes.
Take a slow breath in through your nose for 4 seconds.
Hold it for 7 seconds.
Then exhale gently through your mouth for 8 seconds.
Again.
In for 4.
Hold for 7.
Out for 8.
Whenever you can, return to this breath.
When a muscle suddenly tightens.
When a spasm catches you off guard.
After a sharp jolt of pain that causes your whole body to tense.
It won't take the pain away.
But it may help interrupt the tension that pain creates. It may help your muscles soften, even if only a little. And sometimes, that little bit is enough.
I hope this gave you a small moment of rest -
without guilt.