advice taken...Thanks

[cat 1]

Hello.I had lots of encouragement from a variety of people on here when I was particulary low over the easter period.One of the things I did was rejoin the local hotel/gym/spa.NHS staff get a discount and it's been reduced even more since I last was a member[:)]For the last 3 days I have swam for 20-30 minutes.Had spa's and steam room sessions and sauna's and I feel very relaxed again.I will make sure I go at least 3-4 times per week.Afterall each session is free once you've paid?[:X]Also, they have the most lovely changing rooms with power showers and shower jel/creams.Luxury!

[Shining]

Ooh now that sounds lovely cat 1, something I could do with right now, so glad you're feeling more relaxed.

[chris.g]

Sounds just the thing Cat. I'm so pleased to hear you are feeling a bit more chilled, xx

[Rachael24]

Good to hear things are working out for ya!

[angela18]

Ooh Cat sounds nice.. sauna and posh creams.. enjoy and I hope it does the job!!

[cat 1]

I just need to loose 6 stone now [:(] And I'm being nice to myself suggesting just the 6 [:I]

[emma_t]

So glad you are feeling a bit brighter cat 1, it is a struggle and I get down sometimes.
Exercise is great for making you feel better, I often take a nice long walk with the dog and I do feel better afterwards as it invigorates you.
Take full advantage of the shower facilities and creams, a bit of luxury[:)]

[Skippy]

Glad you're enjoying it Cat!

[debbiw]

Glad you are feeling happier Cat x

[Soulgrowth]

Hi Cat ... good to see you are feeling happier now ... this is the wonder of this Forum, that we all offer one another support when we need it [:)]

Debbie

[cat 1]

I do agree.This forum has been invaluable in it's emotional and practical support.And, somehow it's easier when we don't know one another.It's great not to get judged or shock people.I could never disclose the stuff I do to many people.A couple of my friends 'know' now, but in fairness, although supportive, they don't understand it and nor do they understand my preoccupation and constant interest in others situations and new questions to be asked/answered.I just wish I 'd found you all before I committed to the IVA.I may well now be 12 months in instead of 5.You're all lovely and it's strange to think we would walk past each other in the street...[:)]I check the forum all the time and read others posts even when I don't post myself.I spend hours on here.Sometimes, and much to my surprise I'm laughing outloud at some of the comments made...Cat

[emma_t]

Hi cat

If there is ever a frugal friends meeting near you, I would suggest going along as I thoroughly enjoyed myself in Birmingham.
I expected to be really nervous, but was not too bad. Luckily I met up with pixie before hand so we went in together which was great.
It is a really informal get together and an extension of the forum and you meet some of the people you communicate with over the forum.

So glad you are feeling more positive[:)]

[Soulgrowth]

I have to agree with Emma ... actually getting to know one another in person strengthens the bond even more [:)]

Debbie

[pixie]

Hi Cat, glad to hear you're feeling brighter. This journey certainly has it's ups and downs! but on here there is always someone to turn to, to share a laugh or commiserate with. It is hard for others that have no experience of this to fully understand.
As Emma says if you get chance to go one of the meetings you should. It's great to talk to real people for a change! Everyone is very friendly and couldn't be more welcoming.