You’re tired.

Feel sick.

Feel tired of feeling sick.

Each day you get to be a victim of your circumstance or to live life fully.

Some days you choose to live and other days you are left feeling like you never had a choice in the first place.

You can dislike what happens and still live fully. I’m not saying you won’t have bad days or that every problem can be solved with what I’m going to share. In fact, I have personal experience with mental illness and know there are times when we can’t solve things on our own.

The important thing is to have an upward trajectory. Everyone knows that old analogy that you take two steps forward and one step back. But you’re still moving forward.

We can still thrive and enjoy life when we are taking one step back.

But HOW?

My Grandma O is an incredible example of this. The final few years of her life she spent the majority of her time in bed. She spent that time watching educational YouTube videos, sending emails to family, or listening to inspiring music.

Grandma O didn’t simply “survive.” Instead she shows us how to thrive amidst discomfort or unpleasantness. Using her method, I will now offer you 3 ways to thrive in your life.

1- Quality time with those you love

Through the age of the COVID pandemic we learned the importance of spending time with others. There is extensive research done on the effect of loneliness on longevity as well as depression and anxiety.

This is all stressful. And stress increases inflammation. Which worsens anxiety and depression. Or, in the case of Multiple Sclerosis, escalates disease activity.

So to counteract that, invite someone you love to lunch. Or make a phone call. Or if that still seems like too much, send a text. In my experience, even watching videos of my daughter gives me a greater connection to her in that moment.

2- Spend time doing something you enjoy

As an individual with depression and anxiety that is exacerbated by an autoimmune disease, I frequently find myself wondering what, if anything, I enjoy doing. If you’re in a similar place, or even if you need a little more variety, here are some ideas.

• Go on a walk and take pictures of anything that catches your eye
• Draw something you’ve never drawn before
• Find a new recipe and listen to music while you’re in the kitchen. (Some of my favorite recipes are found here https://www.sixsistersstuff.com/ )
• Try kickboxing or zumba (There are a lot of great resources on Youtube. My favorite zumba classes are strong zumba classes. You can try one of those at this link https://www.youtube.com/@WeAreSTRONGNation )

The important thing to remember is that you don’t know if you enjoy doing something unless you have done it. So if nothing tickles your fancy, I dare you to try it anyways.

3- Enjoy the creativity of others

My Grandma was always listening to concerts on Youtube. She also loved family members performing for her or seeing artwork we had created.

I believe creativity is a divine gift from God. Acting on creativity or enjoying someone else’s creativity brings us greater connection spiritually with something greater than ourselves.

The next time you feel bogged down, try listening to music or looking at pictures of art. Pay attention to how you feel and keep an open mind. You can make an arsenal of creative inspiration to boost you up when you need it.

Grandma O smiled and laughed multiple times daily, and showed me that life is more than just something to be endured. In conclusion, use Grandma O’s 3 secrets to a happy life in spite of strife. Let me know what you try and how it affects you.

The post 3 Ways to Thrive in Spite of Pain first appeared on MS and Mo.