MSAA features the work of many talented artists affected by multiple sclerosis as part of our annual MSAA Art Showcase. Each month we share these artists’ inspiring stories and beautiful artwork with you as our Artist of the Month. This month, we celebrate Amanda Chavez as October’s Artist of the Month. Amanda is from Anthem, AZ.
Gato Luna
Continue readingBy Monica Proctor Wilson
Continue readingSelf-care is not selfish.
Self-care is self-love.
It took me many years to not only understand that self-care was not selfish, but self-care was self-love and to also accept this. Of course, I had to learn the hard way. For years, I was the person burning the candle at both ends… and in the middle. I made sure everyone else was taken care of, I checked all the boxes, and I filled in all the roles. My personal theme song was “I’m Every Woman” by Chaka Khan, which I played on repeat in my head. Say amen if you relate.
As the school year has officially started, going back to school can be stressful for some families. Students may be battling stresses associated with academic performance, peer pressure, social anxiety, etc. On the other hand, parents are anxiously hoping that their children will have a productive year at school. It is important to set realistic expectations for your child and be prepared to anticipate challenges along the way. If you are a parent with MS, fatigue and exhaustion can hit any time. Planning and being organized is the key.
Here are some tips that can help alleviate stress associated with the transition back to school:
Continue readingThere’s nothing like the first cool mornings of fall to make you crave something warm, comforting, and just a little bit sweet. These Pumpkin Spice Oat Muffins are the perfect way to bring the flavors of the season to your breakfast table. With wholesome oats, cozy spices, and the natural sweetness of pumpkin, they’re simple to make, light enough for every day, and pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Think of them as a gentle nudge into autumn!
Volver a una rutina puede ser todo un desafío. Ya sea que regrese a la escuela, regrese de sus vacaciones de verano o simplemente desee tener más estructura en su vida, la transición a una nueva temporada puede sentirse agobiante. Sin embargo, no tiene por qué ser abrupta ni agotadora: también puede ser intencional, tranquila e incluso energizante.
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Getting back into a routine can be challenging, whether you’re returning to school, coming off a summer break, or simply craving more structure. The transition into a new season, especially back-to-school time, can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be abrupt or exhausting. It can be intentional, gentle, and even energizing.
Continue readingI have always been a fan of organization and routines. Staying organized and up-to-date on my to-do list makes life feel manageable and productive. Having a good routine has always provided a sense of structure and control, even more so during busy seasons. But there have been plenty of times, especially as a remote worker, where my routine has felt extremely repetitive, unamusing, and tiring. When this feeling begins creeping up, it personally becomes essential to step away from my day-to-day norm and do something less traditionally productive. But first – it’s important to recognize your emotions and the signs of burnout approaching.
By Emily Carlin
I am sure like most of you, I feel the start of a new school year is filled with all new wishes, adventures, lessons, and excitement. However, when you have children, it can be stressful. Please know that I am there with you and I have come up with a few steps that make my life just a little bit easier when starting the new school year.
Beyond the Usual: An Inside Look at Weird MS Symptoms
While many are familiar with common multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms like fatigue, vision problems, and muscle weakness, the reality for those living with the condition often involves a bizarre and sometimes baffling array of odd manifestations.
These “weird” symptoms can be unsettling, isolating, and even comical at times, highlighting the unpredictable nature of MS.
MultipleSclerosis.net asked its community members: “Have you ever experienced what you thought was a ‘weird’ symptom and wondered if others with MS have experienced it too?” Here’s what folks had to say:
Continue readingBy Stacie Prada
Life is full of distractions, disruptions, deadlines, and despair. Yet we go on. Sometimes we’re strong and excited, and other times we struggle. The measure of success isn’t an imaginary idea of being perfect. Whether we lead, push, pull, or fall short, it’s success to keep showing up and trying.
The ability to focus helps with test-taking, achievement, and success, yet what to focus on and when to focus are up to us in each moment.
What does it mean to focus? Often, it’s paying attention, limiting distractions, and concentrating. Do I have to push so hard all the time? Maybe not.
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