This is crucial to your well being. And like everything with having MS, it is not going to be easy to do and happen over night. But, you have to do it. Your health is now going to be your first priority in life. It trumps over your job, your relationships, your hobbies, your social life, and everything in between. If you are not healthy, then things in life that you want and do are going to be achievable. I know this may sound harsh, but people that is now your reality. You have to take care of yourself from here on out. No excuses!
Each day you wake up, after thanking God for the day, take an evaluation of how your body feels. Is something in pain, is something numb, is something weak, are you emotionally drained? Then base your day and activities on what you are feeling. If you are feeling great, fantastic! Do not overdue it and know your limits. And again, thank God for this great day! If something is in pain or bothersome, take action on how you are going to cope with the condition, how you are going to make your day easier, and know what to do to get yourself stronger. It is going to be an everyday, 365 days a year job, to put your health first and stick to taking care of yourself. You are worth doing this and for those who love and care about you, they want this for you too.
Some people may not understand why you may not be able to do something or attend an event like you usually would. But you have to remember, they are not the ones fighting MS. You are, and if they cannot accept that you are taking care of yourself, you do not need them in your life. Again, harsh, but true. Surround yourself with those who will inspire you to be the healthiest and best you can be.
Find the time to make your meals up ahead that are healthy and nutritious to your body. Eat the foods that will give you more strength and power to keep on fighting. Exercise to your own body’s health limits. And do it as many days a week as you can. With again, not overdoing it. Know what your body is feeling that day, and plan your exercise according to what is strong and what is weak that day. Always remember to stay cool when exercising so have plenty of cold water with you at all times. Do your exercising when it fits in with your schedule and no excuses with this. Put your health and yourself first!
I had a somewhat hard time with this concept as well. I love my job and love what I do but when I was first diagnosed, I still worked as much as I could. I never slowed down with my work schedule and my social life schedule. It wasn’t till I was not getting stronger that things had to change. My doctor told me I was at about 95% of doing all that I can, but to slow down a bit more would help. My new mantra in life became “If you do not take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of others.” I want to take care of others, take care of my clients, and take care of my life. So, I am going to do just that!
