How to Cope With Bed Rest

There are several forms of bed rest, so verify with your doctor what you are allowed to do. One level is decreased activity, where you can still do most of your normal things, except heavy lifting or heavy housework. Another level is stricter. You are allowed to sit up in bed or on a couch, but can only get up to use the restroom or take a shower, no housework or lifting at all. Read on to learn more about how to cope with bed rest.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Reading materials
• Laptop
• Phone
• Paper and pen
• Music
• TV, DVD player and movies

1. Gather your reading material together, or have someone grab some for you. You could spend the time reading books you haven't had time for. Get some magazines you are interested in reading through as well.
2. Keep the phone within easy reach, as well as your phone book for the numbers of family and friends. Calling a few people may make the day go by a little faster and easier.
3. If you have a laptop, use it. Send emails, write a blog, read blogs and connect with others that are bed ridden or experiencing complications.
4. Keep a small supply of water, fruits, vegetables and other healthy snacks available. When you are unable to get up and no one is there to help, having them near makes it easier.
5. Keep a journal. Whether electronically or handwritten, a journal will document all you are feeling. Some days will be better than others, so if you are having a particularly bad day, reading your past entries may lift your mood.
6. Buy a new pair of pajamas and keep makeup near you for a quick pick-me up. Just because you are stuck in bed doesn't mean you won't want to look nice. You don't have to wear makeup, but if you are feeling down you can try to lift your spirits by putting a little on.
7. Get a massage. Whether your spouse or a friend uses simple massage oils and delicately massages your body, or you hire a professional to come to you, a massage works wonders. Being in bed all day makes your muscles weak and sore. A massage will relieve the pressure and pain as well as lift your mood. Pamper yourself.
8. Get a manicure or pedicure. Call a friend or family member and ask them to help you look nice and get pampered. The company will be nice and you get to feel better in the process.
9. Watch some movies you love or have been wanting to see. Don't just watch boring TV shows. Watch something exciting.
10. As for help. If you are feeling down, call a friend and let them know. If you just need to talk or you need to see someone then tell them. It is not easy to know what someone needs, so make it easier on all of you by asking for what you need.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a list of things you want and ask someone to get them for you.
• Rent movies online to keep a steady supply of new things to watch.
• If you have food close by, be sure it is healthy. Boredom and depression can lead to overeating. Healthy foods are better to overeat than junk food.