Your Best Year

By: Doug Ankerman

2022 is over and you are already ankle-deep in 2023.  What will this new year bring?  No one knows for sure.  But I believe you can give yourself an edge for the better with a few small, but subtle changes.  Here are some ways to start…

  • Stretching before bedtime eases a jittery body.
  • Drink drink drink water.
  • MS is relentless.  Be relentless right back.
  • Do what you can to improve what you have.
  • Slip-on shoes are wonderful.
  • Read out loud to strengthen your voice.  (Keep your belly tight)
  • Waggle your fingers.  Wiggle your toes.
  • Forget the music.  MRI-time is nap-time.
  • Take lukewarm showers.
  • Get as much done when your energy is highest.  (Mornings for me)
  • Invite no one to your pity party.
  • Move what you can as much as you can.  Then do it again.
  • Routines may be boring but are essential with MS.
  • Staying hydrated eases constipation & muscle spasms.
  • Clean out the damn rollator basket.
  • Wall-walking is a talent.
  • Focus on what you CAN do.  Not what you CAN’T.
  • Exercise/movement burns energy-but gives back so much more.
  • Big handle silverware is cool.
  • Breathe deeply.  In through the nose.  Out through the mouth.
  • A clear pee is a good pee.
  • Crawling is not just for babies (and is good exercise).
  • Take meds at the same time every day.
  • There is no magic pill, shot or infusion.  You gotta work it too.
  • Leaving yourself a note/list eases your mind.
  • Be inventive.  Use what you have to scratch your back.
  • Put your stuff away in the same place so you can find it.
  • You don’t need a gym.  Just roll around on the floor for a workout.
  • When will this list ever end?
  • Pull-over tops are easy AND fashionable.
  • Move it, use it or lose it.

And finally, MS never stops. Neither should you.

Well, I hope this helps.  Here’s to your best in 2023!

Doug writes silly stuff about MS and other topics on his humor blog at myoddsock.com

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About MSAA

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) is a national nonprofit organization and leading resource for the entire MS community, improving lives today through vital services and support. MSAA provides free programs and services, such as: a Helpline with trained specialists; award-winning publications, including, The Motivator; MSAA’s nationally recognized website, featuring educational videos, webinars, and research updates; a mobile phone app, My MS Manager™; safety and mobility equipment products; cooling accessories for heat-sensitive individuals; MRI funding; My MSAA Community, a peer-to-peer online support forum; MS Conversations blog; a clinical trial search tool; podcasts; and more. For additional information, please visit www.mymsaa.org or call (800) 532-7667.

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