Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Haven't Got Time for the Pain

It's been 5 days since I broke my leg. I've had sports injuries over the years, and have broken fingers and torn ligaments. Several years ago I broke my foot, but I wasn't dependent on crutches. This time around, I'm helpless and not enjoying it in the least.
What's making the situation worse for me is how painful this is. I have had a series of surgeries over the years and surgical pain is very different from this. The former is concentrated, and eventually decreases. My broken bone is a constant throbbing pain. Couple that with not finding relief from most pain medications, it's been a rough few days in my world.
Having practiced yoga for as long as I have, I have a secret weapon to fight pain: yogic breathing. Pranayama is one of the 8 limbs of yoga, and just as important as asana practice.
Using ocean breath has really helped me focus and overcome some of the waves of pain that hit. It's allowed me to take charge and manage it better.

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