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