Shorter Days, Stronger Self-Care

By Dr. Eva Jackson

Welcome to autumn, a season whose colors call to mind traditions, history, and memories. Even as those familiar reminders surround us, daylight hours grow shorter, causing the circadian rhythm to affect our thinking, health, and moods. When the days become shorter, some people experience a change in their moods and energy levels. Many of us were not familiar with the reason why the fall season creates a change in the mental state of some; however, science now shows us the reason why! However, as we learn, we are encouraged to develop ways to prevent the impact on our mental health when we have less daylight in the days. Here are 3 ways to protect your mental health when days get shorter.

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Dealing with Seasonal Pressure

By Stacie Prada

Fall consistently brings increased obligations, stress, and fatigue for me. I notice it’s happening when I feel pressured, stressed, and frustrated. The paradox is that when I realize something needs to give, the solution always requires more work.

Colder weather, fewer hours of daylight, and cold & flu season consistently increase my multiple sclerosis symptoms. Each year, I find myself creating a new plan to adjust. By writing this, I hope to capture my thought process and make each year’s adjustment less painful.

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Smart and Splendid Summers

As we dive into the bright and sun-filled days of summer, I find myself pondering just how wonderful this season feels in our lives. Probably the best part is the joy of spending time with loved ones and building meaningful connections. While travel is a big part of the season, it is important to plan mindfully—especially when living with MS. Since every individual’s MS journey is different, it is important to plan based on your needs. Make time for rest, listen to your body, and prepare ahead so you can truly cherish the holiday experience. Since travel can also be costly, there are several smart ways to reduce expenses without compromising on the comfort of the holidays.

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Big Fun, Small Budget – Make it a Staycation

By Dr. Eva Jackson

Have you ever wanted to free yourself from your daily routine, but an elaborate vacation was not within your budget? Maybe your family and friends do not have the time for a weeklong travel itinerary, or maybe you simply need a quick break without all the planning, packing, and expense that usually comes with traveling. Something unplanned can still feel refreshing, exciting, and meaningful. A staycation, a skill-cation, or even a bae-cation can all give you the feeling of taking a vacation without requiring you to go far from home. All these new terms for vacation can be included in the simple decision to slow down, step away from everyday stress, and enjoy a staycation.

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A Summer Bucket List for Every Budget

Summer is often associated with vacations, travel, and spending money. However, rising costs and busy schedules can sometimes make those plans difficult. The good news is that there are plenty of activities that are both enjoyable and budget friendly. Creating a summer bucket list can help you make the most of the season while staying within your budget.

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Self-Guided Summer Fun 

By Stacie Prada

When looking for things to do in the summer months, I think of my favorite experiences and memories. Some were big, pricey events with lots of planning, and some cost next to nothing, were memorable for some reason, and were special for who I did them with. 

This summer I’ll have close family visit me. Our primary goals are to spend time together and relax. Still, it’s the perfect opportunity to create an indulgent staycation for me and a fun vacation for them. They’ve already visited many times, so my goal is to do more of what we’ve enjoyed in the past and find new experiences for us to enjoy together. 

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Summer Plans on a Budget: How I Make the Most of Summer Living with MS

By Nicole Robinson

Summer looks a little different when you are living with multiple sclerosis. The heat, the fatigue, the unpredictability of symptoms – it all factors into how I plan, what I commit to, and how I protect my energy while still enjoying the season. Over the years I have learned that a meaningful summer does not require a big budget or an ambitious itinerary. It requires intention. And a little planning ahead never hurts either.

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Summertime

By Angel Blair

It’s that time of year again— the peak of the summer months is upon us. For those living with MS affected by the heat, staying cool becomes top priority. And for individuals on a budget, summer planning can require some creativity and thinking outside of the box. But there are ways to try and enjoy the season while being cost efficient and budget savvy. It’s about finding what works for you! 

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Summer Fun on a Budget: Finding Joy Close to Home

By Samuel Fitch

Having fun in the summer does not have to mean spending hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars on a fancy vacation, cruise, amusement park, or long-distance trip. Those things can be wonderful, but they are not the only way to make meaningful summer memories.

Sometimes the best kind of summer is a simple staycation right where you live.

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