Grounded In Faith & Truth

Posted on May 20, 2026 by MSAA

By Samuel Fitch

When people hear the phrase “mental health,” they often think of major life changes, complicated routines, or dramatic breakthroughs. My experience has been much simpler.

For me, strong mental health is often built through small habits repeated consistently; habits that help me stay grounded before the demands of the day begin competing for my attention.

Living with multiple sclerosis has taught me how quickly your mind can drift if you’re not intentional. Some days bring fatigue. Other days bring stiffness or frustration. And if I’m not careful, my mind can start running toward questions about the future that don’t have answers yet.

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Say No to Stress

Posted on May 18, 2026 by Teena Palathanam

Whether it is related to work, relationships, health, circumstances, or lifestyle changes, stress has become a normal part of life for people of all ages. Stress is the body’s natural response to external pressure. While it is normal for stress to come and go, problems begin to arise when it becomes constant and lingering.

Here are some ways to take care of your mental health by making subtle changes to your routine:

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Mental Fitness: Strengthening the Mind Like a Muscle

Posted on May 15, 2026 by Claudia Chavez

We often talk about the importance of physical fitness. We understand that it is an important part of our overall well-being, and there are many ways to support it, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, going for a daily walk, or stretching while watching television. Mental fitness follows the same concept but focuses on our mental and emotional well-being. It is the practice of exercising our mind as we would a muscle. Mental fitness involves training our thoughts and responses to promote resilience, reduce anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and increase tolerance to stress.

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Maybe You’re Already Doing It…

Posted on May 13, 2026 by MSAA

By Angel Blair

I think it goes without saying how important one’s overall health is. Though when we talk about health and wellness, we often just think of the physical aspects. But a crucial part of our well-being relies on mental health and wellness too, and these can unfortunately get overlooked at times. When thinking about wellness plans and regimens, mental health may not be considered a top priority or major piece of the puzzle. But it should, as mental wellness is just as important as other parts of our health system.

Nurturing mental health needs can be challenging at times, but there are ways to help improve it that may already be done in your day-to-day. It doesn’t always have to be a grand act or monumental feat that’s accomplished, but rather small gestures or behaviors done daily to foster good mental health. If I find myself overwhelmed or stressed, there are a few go-to acts that I engage in to center myself and to help refocus.

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Protecting My Peace: Small Habits That Help Me Navigate Life with MS

Posted on May 8, 2026 by MSAA

By Nicole Robinson

Living with multiple sclerosis has taught me a lot, especially when it comes to protecting my mental and emotional well-being.

When I was first diagnosed, I didn’t have it all together. There were moments of confusion, frustration, and a lot of questions about what my life would look like moving forward. While I still don’t have all the answers, I’ve learned that small intentional habits can make a big difference in how I show up each day.

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The Power of Holistic Wellness for Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis

Posted on April 29, 2026 by MSAA

By Dr. Eva Jackson

Holistic wellness plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). This approach, recognized and studied by numerous organizations, focuses on treating the whole person rather than addressing symptoms in isolation.

When I was first introduced to life with MS, my care team did not clearly explain the importance of whole-person care. Yet, despite this lack of explanation, that is exactly the model they implemented. Soon after my diagnosis, a comprehensive and coordinated plan was developed to manage my symptoms. My care team included a neuro-ophthalmologist, urologist, MS specialist, sleep medicine specialist, and a physical therapist specializing in multiple sclerosis. At the time, this fast-paced, multidisciplinary approach felt overwhelming. In retrospect, I deeply appreciate how effectively each provider worked together. This coordinated care exemplifies the essence of holistic wellness and addressing physical, emotional, and functional needs simultaneously.

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Singing for Wellness

Posted on April 27, 2026 by MSAA

By Stacie Prada

Last year, my naturopath suggested I take deep breaths each day, and I agreed it would be good for me. I approached it like a prescription and made sure to do it. I followed guided meditations, and they were fine. I’d set a timer and count deep breaths in and out to meet the goal. It seemed good for me, but I didn’t love it or look forward to it.

Then I had an “aha moment.” I’ve long wanted to improve my singing, and I realized I could make progress with singing AND practice breathwork in a way I’d enjoy.

My inspiration was a music app. It would allow me to do breathwork and improve my musical knowledge and skills. Most importantly, it could be fun. I’ve now been doing singing lessons for a few minutes each day for 22 weeks. Because I want to keep my streak, I make sure I do it every day. I love that it’s a bite-sized daily commitment, and it’s doable.

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Taking Ownership: My Journey Toward Better Mental and Physical Wellness

Posted on April 24, 2026 by MSAA

By Samuel Fitch

There comes a point where continuing the same patterns will only lead you further away from the life you actually want to live. For me, that moment wasn’t dramatic. It was quiet, but undeniable. Between living with multiple sclerosis, navigating the sudden loss of my mom, and recognizing that my overall health was trending in the wrong direction, something had to change.

Not eventually. Not when it was convenient. Now.

For a long time, I operated the way many people do—focused on responsibilities, pushing through fatigue, and accepting certain limitations as “just the way things are.” Over time, the signs became harder to ignore. Low energy. Brain fog. Poor cardiovascular health. A general sense that I wasn’t operating at the level I knew I was capable of.

Then a simple but heavy realization settled in. I still have a lot of life left to live. That thought forced a question I couldn’t avoid—am I doing what’s necessary to be here for it?

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Empowering Myself

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Teena Palathanam

I have realized that every time I go to a doctor’s appointment, I walk in already feeling guilty — mentally preparing to defend myself, almost expecting judgment. Before the doctor starts asking about my exercise routines and eating habits, I am literally saying in my mind, “Guilty as charged”. But guilt doesn’t move us forward. Conscious choices do.

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Life is Better Off Autopilot

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Claudia Chavez

I am a creature of habit. I naturally stick to routines that work, and it is hard for me to change them once they feel comfortable. Routines can be helpful, but sometimes they make life feel automatic, like you are on autopilot, going through the motions without really noticing what is happening. One way I shake up that feeling is with micro-adventures.

Micro-adventures are small, simple, and surprisingly powerful ways to break out of habits. They invite curiosity, spark creativity, and give your day a fresh perspective. The best way to escape autopilot and that stuck feeling is by trying something different.

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