Thought I prefer to start my innings facing a fast bowler rather than a spinner, I used to be a bit nervous starting off against a express bowlers. Last season, my club's overseas pro who bowls consistently around the 80-82mph mark gave me the following tip and it has helped me. Stand 6-8 inches outside the crease, have a low back-lift to start with, play close to your body and below ur head and play with a straight bat. Once you start getting used to the pace and swing increase your back-lift. Once in a while step down and try to play straight (defend or a chip over the infield), the bowler is sure to give you a short one which if you are a good puller of the ball will be the boundary ball for you.
I worked on this in the nets over the winter and have truly benefited from his advise.
btw, he also told me the pain you feel when you are hit by a ball is the same whether it is a spinner or a fast bowler as you feel it more in your mind than where it has hit you