@onewhoknows My curiosity is piqued! Do I have to google pineal gland or could you explain more what you mean about "tricking the pineal gland". Also, what is a Temperpaedic sleep mask? I went to the Temperpaedic website and found no message of masks!

I read your note a couple of days ago, been thinking about this and just have to add my thoughts....gathered from my personal experiences. I don't know your age or individual issues. I'm 74 in 4 days!!!!! I've dealt with lots of medical issues though-out my life, adding to the list as I go.

My balance has been an issue for 15+ years, thus falling is a part of my life. I'm now much improved since my Mayo journey began. Dopamine has saved my life! My balance, leg strength, ability to p/u my feet and more are much better due to this medication for restless leg syndrome.

My eyes get blurred, often see double, burn, hurt at times.....Have arthritis in all my joints, can't get up if I fall, use cane-for 20ish years-and now a walker when I go out....and the list continues. BTW: Epsom salts works wonders, IF YOU CAN GET IN, SIT DOWN, SOAK, GET UP AND OUT OF THE TUB! I CAN'T DO ANY OF THAT AND SUGGEST MANY OF US ON THESE POSTS HAVE THE SAME ISSUES....I'D LOVE A WARM BATH.

I got several 'night-lights' from Lowes/Home Dept.....motion sensor and light sensitive that use AA batteries and stick on the wall w/magnets. One on the wall beside each step in my 14 step staircase in my condo and I can see each step......even if the electricity is off in a storm or I just need the extra light. Saved me numerous times from dangerous falls! I have them in my BR, bath and anywhere I need a bit extra light. Wow! What a difference in my life.

And, since that's my present lot and tub soaks are off the table, I go to the rehab therapy pool, 94degrees temp, and most of my pain melts away. Yes, I go 2X weekly during Covid9. BUT, I do so very carefully, mindful of my surroundings and following the best safety recommendations to a place with extreme safety measures. I do the same with same mindset re my health issues and staying on top of them.....diagnosis, treatments, tests, all of it. I go to Mayo for whatever I need knowing it may be one of the safest spots in town.....and, I'm careful.

You know, I agree with you in many ways. I just think we must be in charge of our own lives. I refuse to live in fear! Fear is detrimental to our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual lives.....so, I choose not to live in fear. I will not be beaten by this pandemic nor any of the issues I deal with in my life. I refuse to be beaten!

So, I'm proactive in my health and well-being. So far, I'm so much better. My wonderful Mayo visits have truly saved me. It feels really good to at least think I have some control over my life......We Do!

Blessings on your journey. Be safe, be well, be positive.....tough for sure. Thank you Mayo for help in all those areas.....These chat sites have really helped me on that count! May they help you also, in what ever ways you can benefit.
elizabeth