The recurring hiccups were as relentless as the waves. No matter how long I held my breath, they just would not stop. Drinking water did not help. I did not have access to a spoonful of sugar. Breathing into a paper bag did not help either.
Finally, I visualized my diaphragm, which is mainly a long flat muscle under your ribs, floating horizontally on a still blue sea. To my delight, the hiccups settled down like the bobbing raft, I envisioned.
A few nights ago, I could not get my mind to settle down. As I was breathing in trying to count my breaths, I realized that the sounds resembled a gentle tide flowing up on the beach, only to retreat before returning with the next breath. When I inhaled, the water rippled up the sand. The exhale was the ocean ebbing. As I got into listening for the inhales and the exhales my mind quieted and I fell peacefully asleep.
? I guess we all have our systems 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Whatever works for each of us. Some people count sheep, others count breaths.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Oh, I get it, a visual relaxation technique. The mind is a powerful thing.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is. Thanks for commenting, Priscilla.
LikeLike
Wow, Pat… just wow! It’s been a long time (knock on wood) but I used to get hiccups that just wouldn’t go away, like you describe. I tried all those things and more, but never a visualization. I hope I remember this if they ever happen again. Hugs on the wing!
LikeLike
Thanks, Teagan. Hope you don’t get hiccups. They are very annoying. Hugs hopping and skipping back at you.
LikeLike
You certainly have strong visualization skills, Pat! I can see that comes in very handy for getting to sleep. I may try that…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Becky. If you try it, I hope it will help you too.
LikeLike
Fortunately I’ve never had hiccups that wouldn’t stop – just as well because Winston runs away if ever I get the hiccups!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Winston’s reaction is interesting. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person