The game I told you about, Animal Crossing City Folk, also is on a DS Handheld format. So if you have a DS you can play it. The reason I recommend it is because you play a character who has the ability to run, fish, tend a orchard, shop, decorate a cottage, dig for fossils, interact with the other villagers, send mail, and it all takes place in a lovely environment. It is fun and relaxing, totally stress free. Hugs, Cathy

Hi, it was pointed out that I was not clear that I am referring to a Nintendo DS Handheld Gaming System. That could have been really confusing especially here! LOL. The Nintendo DS offers a huge array of games to choose from. So it makes it a nice addition to your CP kit. They are handheld so fit in your purse and can go with you to doctors visits. They are $120 new and Game Stop usually has some used one's for sale for $80. Just remember to take your reading glasses because the print is on the smallish side. Hugs, Cathy

that sounds really cool cathy. can you post the link. handheld as in phone? or do you need a device?

Hi Serenity,

The Nintendo DS is a Gaming Platform System just like the Wii, only it is handheld. You can purchase the system and games many places. I know that Walmart sells them. But you can get get a good buy on a used system at Game Stop. At Game Stop they usually have some used Nintendo DS Gaming Systems for sale beside their cash register in a glass case. A new Ninetendo DS costs $120 and at Game Stop a used one is $80. At least that is true in Washington State, I am assuming it will be the same elsewhere. Hugs, Cathy

I spend a couple of hours in my meditation room, not just meditating but doing all sorts of stuff which is kind of like praying, and also connecting with my body and crying if I need to and then, usually, the mood is out and transformed and I feel ok about the rest of the day.

If the mood persists, I read a good novel or watch a good movie to escape it. But I find it important to allow the mood some time before I do that.

I hope you find something that works for you.
Hugs,
Ama

I used to visualize my pain leaving my body and then I visualized putting it in an envelope, sealed it mailed it. Didn't get rid of all the pain but did help lessen it.

I too, meditate. I use a form of visualization to help me relax and escasape my pain. I have done this for 20+ years now so it seems automatic for me. But like having a special room in your home to go to for alone time, I have a special room/space in my mind where I can go to rest. It is my safe haven. When I am in that space I am no longer conscious of my pain. The downside is that I am not conscious of anything else either and you can't maintain that state indefinitely. But, it does give me a nice break when I need it. It is also a great way to fall asleep. This is a learned behavior and takes practice. It is not airy fairy and anyone can master it. I highly recommend it to anyone with CP. It has really been a lifesaver for me. Hugs, Cathy

I got a Wii system a few months ago...it's loads of fun and good distraction. I play computer games on gamesgames.com which a friend here told me about.

Another thing that is very relaxing and used therapeutically is coloring. There are adult coloring books online and even some free printouts. One of my favorites is Mandola Patterns. Google it and take a look.

I am liking the coloring idea that sounds fun

I also find that music can be peaceful

Meditation...coloring and music.......
That's an eclectic and great mix!!!!!!!

Hugs....jc..

I like colouring too. I recently bought some Mandala Colouring books on-line. They're fun. It makes me so happy. I feel like a kid again, all concentrated on the right colour.

cathy we were proably typing at the same time about DS :) sometimes it takes me 10 minutes to get my thought out.
yes, meditation helps me get back to sleep many times.
sis, i used to do a lot of coloring. i have my colored pencils unpacked and someone gave me a sketch pad. i used to have a mandala page too. also i like mary engelbreit's style of drawing and you can print out pages on her site. will get my printer set up soon!
great ideas. so much brain power in this room!

I've never done the coloring and I think it is a fabulous idea. Thank you so much for the link. I love it when I find something else to add to my CP kit. Anything creative is terrific, so thanks. Hugs, Cathy

okay...I was afraid to sugest the coloring but since it was so well accepted, there are many things to do that are not hard if you look in the children's section of a craft store...like paint by number.

Also, google "doodling" there are some good videos that teach you how to doodle designs starting with things like the letter "e" in script. It is amazing what you can come up with even if you are not an artist.

Hi Everyone, I want to add one more really fun game that I think you will enjoy. It is called, Dragonvale, and you hatch and raise your own incredible dragons on mystical islands. I play the game on my iPhone and really enjoy it. Now this is a game that you can spend money to play the game, but my son, daughter, & I are all playing it and if you are patient you don't have to spend a penny. The graphics are amazing given the scale. I love watching the dragons develop, they are fascinating. So here is another game to keep your interest going. Hugs, Cathy