I took a hiatus from blogging as I adjusted to many new events in my life: I retired after teaching 47 years with the past 35 being at the same institution; I had several relapses and new lesions on my spinal cord; my father passed away; my medication changed to infusion as my medications were no longer effective; I discovered Pilates; and have learned to better regulate my days through structure and discipline.
I find that doing Pilates for 1-2 hours a day has provided a way to regulate my energy by exercising first thing in the morning. The core strength I have developed has, indeed, helped my balance and my sense of accomplishment in handling what I am able to do. It is amazing how using one’s body physically to grow stronger can improve how a person approaches daily life stresses and improves the mindset.
With about 200 hours already clocked, this is my newly acquired change that will be everlasting. I realized that walking and other exercises do not offer the same benefits as Pilates. Pilates focusses on all body parts with strength building, balance, and coordination exercises. These strength-building exercises work the deep muscles, so these workouts can improve flexibility, circulation, and muscle control. My core is stronger than ever which has improved my posture and helped me not fall down when my foot drops and other numbness occurs in my legs. This alone is worth celebrating.
MS Fortunate 