Mindset Is Everything When It Comes To Chronic Illness
One's choice of "happy" may make a world of difference. Can a change in perspective truly affect an illness with the potential disability of multiple sclerosis? This is supported by evidence, so probably. Take the so-called "placebo effect," in which individuals who take inert substances claim to feel better despite taking medicines.
Blue Lotus Body Therapy practitioner Rebecca Arnold explains that the stress chemicals cortisol may negatively impact several bodily functions, including digestion, immunity, and the capacity to repair.
Define Your MS On Your Terms
You don't have to allow a doctor or other medical expert to determine how you live with MS, even if you're responding well to treatment and repeatedly hearing the same things from them.
Living with multiple sclerosis is challenging because you never know what to expect. It's difficult to foresee the severity or timing of MS symptoms.
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Instead of ruminating, take things as they come. MS patients may find it useful for symptom management. It's irritating when people don't understand you, but concentrate on the moment and appreciate what you're doing now.
Be positive and enjoy life despite MS. Ignoring the problem and giving in to fear isn't the answer.
Don't Let The Stress Take Over
The adverse effects of stress on the body are well-documented. Baseline MS symptoms, such as weakness or decreased coordination, are often exacerbated at times of stress and worry, as reported by many MS patients.
This is probably because MS itself is draining and because it is difficult to perform at one's best when one's focus and energies are diverted by stress.
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Being unhappy or worried might increase symptoms, so control your emotions. Stress causes several physiological reactions. Some people wake up with hives, fevers, stomachaches, appetite loss, etc. Monitor your mood and exercise self-care to reduce stress.
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Swapping Bad Habits For Good Habits
When we're overwhelmed by difficult circumstances and have no idea how to handle them, we often turn to harmful behaviors as a coping mechanism.
Regular running may be an excellent stress reliever and therapeutic activity to maintain physical and mental health and resilience. The energy benefits of exercise are universal. To establish healthy, new routines, I recommend the following:
- Set a S.M.A.R.T. Goal (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound).
- Expect setbacks. They can become motivators to live life to its fullest and be grateful for capabilities, not disabilities.
- Find a buddy. Making a change alone is challenging, but a partner keeps you honest.
- Don't give up. Turn stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Having Faith: Whatever That Looks Like To YOU
Some individuals are wary of faith-based healing and coping since it might lead to false optimism for people with MS. Faith may not cure all your symptoms.
Still, it may lead to greater emotional health, fewer stressors, and a higher quality of life. Your beliefs may help you rise above MS obstacles and educate you to manage symptoms and limits more simply and peacefully.
- Certainty – Those with M.S. who can concentrate on certainty will have an easier time keeping balanced and motivated.
- Support – Your environment might be as significant as your beliefs when you have a chronic disease.
- Comfort – Faith gives some individuals security and comfort. Your faith may soothe you when you're emotionally distressed.
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You Are Not Your Disease
The sickness is not you. Never be defined by MS. Focus on going ahead and doing your best. Live life. Living with a chronic disease means embracing oneself, talents, and purpose. Each year of living with a chronic illness, you can either come into it with sadness or celebration. Never describe yourself by what illness you live with.
Listen To your Body
Kindly love your body and stop negative self-talk. It's more about mentality and emotions, escaping difficult circumstances, and faith it can heal. Listen to your body. Before an exacerbation or health crisis, you may show indicators of stress. Be conscious and stop it. Our bodies are made to heal, but we do have to offer and practice patience. Feel-good hormones boost our capacity to mend and recover.
