Yoga and MS are both central to my life. The difference between the two is that I choose to practice yoga, whereas I did not choose MS...it chose me!
Both yoga and MS are linked however, in that I'm not alone in finding yoga a powerful tool for living well with a chronic illness, such as MS.
In fact, much has been studied and proven, about the many benefits of yoga practice for persons with MS.
Our yoga class involves a combination of gentle physical movements and exercises, deep breathing exercises and relaxation, which are modified according to each person's level of ability, mobility and energy. The aim of yoga is to calm the mind and to tone, strengthen and relax the body, The breathing exercises help to energise and calm both body and mind.
After I was diagnosed with MS in 2002, as well as trying various medical treatments, I searched for advice and therapies, which might be useful for living with MS. After a hectic 12 years of living through several relapses, and the many ups and downs of MS, practising yoga has become an important discovery and friend, for all of the following reasons:
1. Yoga helps to relieve and release my stress, and leaves me feeling relaxed.
2. Yoga calms my mind and de-clutters my thoughts, improving my memory and concentration
3. Yoga tones my body, giving my muscles and joints a gentle yet effective workout, improving my strength and flexibility.
4. Yoga improves my posture and strengthens my body core, reducing my chance of injuring my muscles or joints.
5. Yoga has taught me to be more patient and positive, not only with myself and my limitations, but also in my relationships and life. Yoga helps me to live in the present moment, and to not focus excessively on the past or future. In this way, It helps me to cope with and accept the losses, discomforts and uncertainties of life with MS.
6. Yoga lessens my severe fatigue and leaves me feeling energised.
7. Yoga has helped me to develop self-discipline, and focus on achieving my goals.
My weekly yoga practice in Gorey (organised by The MS Society of Ireland), with our facilitator, Barbara Rocks, who is a certified yoga instructor and member of the Irish Yoga Association, has become central to my wellbeing. This is, not merely for the benefits listed above, but also for the social factor that is involved. Our classes are hugely enjoyable, as well as therapeutic, and Barbara is truly encouraging, patient and supportive, modifying the class, as required, to ensure that all of our needs and abilities are catered for, within a safe environment. People of any age and level of ability and mobility can do this type of yoga.
My fellow 'yoginis' are now my friends and I would encourage anyone and everyone with MS. to give yoga a try (preferably an MS Ireland-approved class) .... you may even find yourself becoming hooked, just like me!
If you are interested in joining a yoga class please contact MS Society of Ireland Community Worker on 087 7375298 | South East Regional Office on (056) 7777771