Fibromyalgia is a complex disorder involving several etiologies and symptom patterns. Not always definitively diagnosed by medical professionals, there is general agreement that those who have the syndrome experience a variety of symptoms, with widespread body pain the most universally reported complaint.

In seeking an assessment and diagnosis, most patients present additional symptoms of poor sleep, fuzzy thinking and disturbances in digestion and elimination. The majority of patients are women, and many similarities in health and lifestyle histories surface. Most patients have had one or more abdominal surgeries, many have suffered an emotional loss or losses, and many work long hours and continually push themselves over an extended period of time. The onset of symptoms may be gradual or they may be precipitated by a surgical procedure or trauma.

In seeking a medical diagnosis, most professionals will assess the level of pain at 18 specific points on the body. These points are located at the base of the skull, the top of the shoulders, near the collarbone, at the elbow, knee, hip and sacrum. While it is most commonly a medical doctor who renders a diagnosis, many fibromyalgia patients find relief through bodywork in combination with medical treatment. The location of the aforementioned trigger points correspond with acupoints treated by acupuncture and shiatsu, and treatment of these points can greatly improve a patient's comfort level.

It is indeed frightening to be diagnosed with a disease or a syndrome, but there are many steps a person can take to improve the quality of life. Though it may seem strange, it is sometimes important to view illness as a gift. Illness comes to remind us that we are out of harmony, and disharmony when left unchecked eventually presents itself as a disease. It is reasonable to assume that when we return to a state of harmony, our whole selves will return to a state of ease or well-being. Below is a 9-point plan I have developed for my clients that will bring an improved state of mind and body to the person with fibromyalgia:

1. Assess your symptoms and keep a log.
   With fibromyalgia it is easy to think globally, i.e., "I hurt all over," but chances are there are some parts of you that are pain-free. Draw a body, front and back, and mark the places that hurt. Look at the drawing and notice not only what hurts, but what doesn't hurt. Make a new drawing each week to measure your progress. Keep a log with your drawings that list any doctors or bodywork therapists you are seeing and how you respond to their treatments. Actively involve yourself in all your health care decisions.
   
   
2. Mingle with nature.
   Get outside if possible. Tune up your senses by listening to the birds, smelling the air, feeling the wind on your face, connecting with the earth. This is very healing in a spiritual sense as well as in a physical sense.
   
   
3. Eat well.
   Eliminate processed foods from your diet. Use natural seasonings like garlic and ginger. Simple foods like steamed vegetables, pasta and fresh seafood or organic meat takes little time to cook and will nourish you well. Make mealtime relaxing and restful.
   
   
4. Connect with people you love and care about.
   Being in the company of those you love is most important when we are healing. If you feel isolated, seek out a fibromyalgia support group that focuses on recovery and mutual support. Take time to laugh with others.
   
   
5. Knowledge is power.
   Read as much as you can about healing. The body has an amazing ability to heal itself. You will find your own path to healing if you take the time.
   
   
6. Move.
   All bodies are designed for movement. Lack of movement causes stagnation of body and mind. If weight-bearing exercise is too uncomfortable at first, start with movement in water, or with very simple stretching. Passive stretching with a physical therapist or shiatsu therapist will help.
   
   
7. Watch your breath.
   In Oriental Medicine, the way one breathes is considered a very important factor in relation to health. The average person breathes 68,000 times a day. Make those breathes deep and restorative. Learning yoga or meditation will increase your awareness of the breath.
   
   
8. Eliminate multi-tasking and learn to say "no."
   As noted earlier, people with fibromyalgia often have a history of overwork. It is important to change this habit and slow down. At home, turn off the TV or stereo and have quiet to allow your mind to rest. At work, use voice mail to screen out unnecessary calls and to give you uninterrupted time for a meeting or writing a report. Recent medical research has shown that continually doing multiple tasks simultaneously has a negative effect on brain function and lowers performance. It is mentally exhausting.
   
   
9. Get adequate rest.
   Interrupted sleep is a common symptom of fibromyalgia. If that is the case for you, take frequent, short brakes during the day in the form of breathing exercise or 5-minute meditations. Eliminate caffeinated foods and beverages. Sleep in a darkened room with no radio or TV. Make your bedroom a peaceful sanctuary.

If you follow this 9-step program, you should see positive results within 4 to 6 weeks. These lifestyle suggestions are important for all people, but they are especially important for anyone with fibromyalgia. This is a disease that seems to evolve after a number of assaults on the body and mind, and adoption of a lifestyle that supports the mind, body and spirit is essential for recovery from this condition.

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Peg Doyle is owner of the Shiatsu & Reiki Treatment Center in Medfield, MA. She can be reached at 508-359-6804 or peg@wellnessandyou.com.