The significance of self-care is undermined in individuals going through MS. MS can wreak havoc on your life as it leads to physical, behavioral and cognitive changes over time.  Below are some ideas for self-care that will improve your brain and body’s wellbeing while battling this disease:

Puzzles, Brainteasers, Chess and Sudoku: MS can result in significant cognitive challenges. Brain games are a great way to engage and stimulate your mind. You will have to challenge your mind to figure out each move. Taking some time every day to play these games will require use of your memory, problem solving and critical thinking skills, thereby gently exercising the neural connections in your brain. It doesn’t matter whether you can complete it or not. Just working on it bit by bit will improve your focus and help you stay sharp.

Exercise: Put some time aside to fit your exercise goals in your daily routine. Find something fun to do so that it is something that you look forward to doing every day. Whether it is walking, water aerobics, yoga or some other form of exercise, try different types and see what works with your body’s capacity and capability.  Regular exercise will prevent shrinkage of muscles and delay progression of the disease.

Connect: Find meaningful connections with individuals who are going through the same struggles as yourself. You will find a place to vent and troubleshoot solutions to your daily challenges with MS. Whether it is through peer support, online communities or support groups, find your safe space and share experiences with those who understand you and are in the same boat as yourself.

Remember to practice self-care at every opportunity you get. Take one day at a time and discover your inner resilience and strength as you religiously practice self-care. You have come a long way with MS and keep marching forward and onward with that very thought in mind.