Wow. So many aspects of this that are totally new to me (GCA especially).
I agree, traditional exercise when a flare kicks in doesn't provide overt results for me.
But certain stretching, and soft yoga positions does relieve the aches to some extent. I also use a specific strain of kratom (super green Malay from Mitragaia). I try my best to be active to maintain my body in as efficient condition as possible, more as a preemptive deterrent rather than a post flare fix.
My main distress is the weakness, fatigur, and depression than in an outright pain. (after joining this forum I understand how fortunate I am). It could be my practice I've chosen or could be just that's the way it is.
I do know when I am in that weakened, depressed flare state, the "PMR tells me to curl up in a ball on the floor and don't move", but if I ignore that, go outside in the sun, and move around minimally, .... I feel better.
I do see that many of us absolutely require overt medical treatment and
medicines to maintain some semblance of functionality.
As my wife the Acupuncturist says "if I'm in a carwreck, don't call an Acupuncturist, call an ambulance! ".
I'm constantly having my perspective widened by folks in this forum, who have taken on so much more than myself for so much longer.
When I am suffering just even a little bit of improvement in quality of life is significant.
Apologies! I kind of slipped off-topic! But thank you! That's valuable for me to hear, as I am definitely not "out of the woods" yet!