How Mindfulness and Creativity Empower Me to Live Fully with Multiple Sclerosis

Every morning, I begin my day with mindfulness meditation and a deep sense of gratitude. Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) has taught me that my mindset shapes my experience, and how I start my day matters. Using the Insight Timer app, I focus on appreciating what I have, the obstacles I’ve overcome, and even the challenges I’ve avoided. Gratitude has become more than a habit—it’s the foundation for everything I do.

Setting my intentions in the morning helps me face whatever lies ahead. Today, for instance, I’m heading to the gym a little later than usual. My routine isn’t rigid because I’ve learned to prioritize what matters most—like the satisfaction of completing a mindfulness practice or finishing a coloring page I’ve been working on. These small moments anchor me, even in the chaos of life with MS.

Coloring, for me, is more than a creative outlet—it’s an act of empowerment. Despite the limitations MS places on my dexterity, I’ve developed techniques that allow me to create art I never thought possible. In the beginning, I stuck to simple coloring, filling large spaces with whatever colors felt right. Now, I’ve grown into a more confident artist, adding my own lines, designs, and details. This progression mirrors my personal journey with MS: adapting, learning, and finding beauty in the process.

This same intention drives my creative projects, including the symptom tracker journal I’m designing. It’s not just about making a product—it’s about creating something meaningful for others. I want people to feel the same empowerment I’ve found in expressing themselves and reflecting on their journey. Creativity has shown me that even within the unpredictability of MS, there is power in what we can create and control.

MS may be unpredictable, but my gratitude and creativity help me focus on what I can do rather than what I’ve lost. Whether it’s walking into the gym, watching a Knicks game with my son, or coloring a page that reminds me of my growth, I choose to embrace life’s moments with purpose and positivity. These aren’t just distractions; they are ways I claim my joy, my identity, and my strength.

Now, I want to hear from you:

1. What practices or routines help you feel empowered and in control of your life?

2. If you live with MS or another chronic condition, how do you embrace creativity or mindfulness to navigate your journey?

Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below. Your story might inspire someone else to find their own strength and beauty in the face of life’s challenges.