The Multiple Sclerosis Tapestry: Interviews with People Whose Lives are Affected by MS

I would tell them to really listen to their patients in order to create a treatment plan that honors the values, beliefs and needs of the patient.  I would also ask that they always start with the least aggressive treatment and then adjust as needed.   I like a doctor who is willing to consider a holistic approach as well.

I know that you love yoga.  Can you tell us how this has helped with your MS?  What advice would you give to a novice such as myself who would like to try yoga for the first time?

Yoga has been the key to dealing with my MS.  When I was at my sickest I used the breath I had learned in yoga to both calm my anxieties and to cope with the pain.  On one of the longest nights of sleeplessness and vertigo I forced myself to breath and move through the pain, rubbing my body as I did so.  Two hours later I believe my remission started.  At that point, I began to believe that I could breathe through whatever my illness brought.  This has been tested many times since then.  At times it has been hard to maintain this faith but ultimately yoga is what has served me best.

One of the beauties of yoga is that it is a practice so if you are not always successful in your meditation or asana (physical) practice at achieving your goals, you can always keep practicing without beating yourself up.  The asana practice helps with flexibility and coordination.  There are dozens of versions of every pose so I truly believe that yoga is accessible to anyone, regardless of the progression of their disease.  I recommend that beginners look online or in their community for a gentle flow or therapeutic class initially.  Classes for seniors are often good as well.  Even those in wheelchairs can do some yoga poses and everyone can engage in breath and meditation practice.  Several health professionals have termed this the perfect exercise for people with MS.  I know it is perfect for me.

Last thoughts? 

Appreciate what you have, especially your health.  Life is uncertain and it is easy to take things and people for granted.  It is important to celebrate the moment and to tell the people you love that you love them.  Don't get stuck thinking, "It could never happen to me."  Many unexpected things come to pass so it is essential to find ways to enjoy and appreciate every moment you are given.