EXERCISING

Exercise is a very dynamic term.

Exercise (noun): a process or activity carried out for a specific purpose, especially one concerned with a specified area or skill.

It isn’t just ONE thing, or ONE skill. It is a group of skills put together in the hopes of improving upon each other like health & wellness building blocks.

I had been a physically active person for years. I hiked, went to the gym, went for walks / runs, and did yoga. I considered myself to be in “acceptable” shape.

However, being diagnosed with a chronic illness changed that view. Suddenly I had to commit to listening to my body and adapting my physical activities accordingly. My idea of exercise had to shift to a full brain & body work out. Not just muscle and cardio. I went from running 5 miles per week, to walking 35-45 miles per week.

How I treat myself, and approach my disease continues to evolve with the symptoms, severity, and seasons. Here is how I am approaching my MS and my health needs:

• Yoga 2-3x per week: Balance, Stability, Muscle Control

• Daily 60-90 minute walks: 10k steps per day goal to engage muscle memory and agility

  • I had to stop running after a fall to ensure I wasn’t doing more harm than good in my pursuit of “exercise".

• Daily Challenges: Muscle maintenance, functional challenges, and tone

  • 30-60x ea. Sit Ups, Push Ups, Russian-Twists, Heal Taps, Lunges, Leg Lifts, Squats, etc.

• Brain Games / Challenges: Keeping the Mind Sharp, Agile, and Prepared.

  • Crocheting, Reading, Game Apps: ‘Elevate’, ‘Wordscapes’.

Charlotte Raejole