Blepharospasm Bulletin Board

He has keen powers of observation, and within the first 2 days had identified 4 behaviours (muscle movements or positions) peculiar to me, that he wants me to focus on changing, pathways to retrain. For me, they are related to eyeball movement, the choice of which muscles I use to open and close my eyes, facial tension and tongue position (this last one is for my throat tension issues, not my BEB). This is where the long, repetitive work of the next months will be. It is draining, both physically and mentally, but I already see signs that doing what he suggests is calming the urge to spasm and reducing muscle tension.

The next 2 days were spent physically practising with his excellent coaching, and discussing mental attitudes towards good days, bad days, progression, apparent regression etc. The right mental approach is crucial to encourage the brain to reset itself effectively. Persistence is required to consolidate new pathways. One of the greatest things he has given me is hope - even though he says that after 9 years of BEB it is reasonable to expect it could take years before I stabilize.

Lisa, Norah-Jean and Lory, in Spain you will have the opportunity to learn so much, as Michelle and I have. There is no quick fix, but take HOPE.