If you’re a member of iConquerMS, you know that we ask you about all aspects of living with the disease, including your mental health and quality of life. There is evidence that spiritual practices help people with MS with both of these and more.
What is Spirituality?
Dictionary.com defines spirituality as “the quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things.”
Spiritual wellness is another dimension of overall mental and emotional health. Not everyone experiences or expresses spirituality in the same way. It is shaped by many things, including an individual’s faith, values, beliefs, principles and morals. Some people may be more likely to have spiritual experiences in church, while others might have these feelings when they’re spending time in nature, through art, meditation, yoga or anything else that gives their lives particular meaning.
Just as a candle cannot burn without fire, men cannot live without spiritual life.
Although there can be a lot of overlap between people who are spiritual and people who are religious, below are some key points to help differentiate between the two:
What advantages does spirituality offer people with MS?
There is evidence that spirituality helps people with MS with feelings of stress, depression and anxiety
Research shows that there is a significant relationship between the spiritual wellbeing and quality of life of people with MS.
A recent study showed that both spirituality and mindfulness promote resilience among people with MS. Of the two, spirituality is more effective.
Researchers in Iran found that hope, when seen as a factor in spiritual health, can have positive and useful effects on the improvement of people with MS.
A 2020 study showed high levels of spiritual health and self esteem protect against stress-related illness and treatment complications in people with MS. In some cases, they also alleviate frustration.
How do I practice spirituality?
Whether you are rediscovering a forgotten spiritual path, deepening your commitment to an existing one, or exploring spirituality for the first time, there are many ways to start nurturing your spiritual side and improving your well-being.
Ways to add spirituality to your life:
Pay attention to how you’re feeling – Identify what drains you and what refills you.
Prioritize how you spend your energy and time – Concentrate on the things that are most important to you.
Practice gratitude – Take a moment to notice good things in your day and be thankful for them.
Connect to the arts – Some people find that immersing themselves in art or music can be a spiritual experience.
Spend time in nature – Try taking a walk, spending time in your backyard, gardening, bird-watching, or simply looking out the window.
Keep a journal – Write about your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
Try mindfulness or meditation – As discussed in our April 2019 newsletter, these practices hold many benefits for people with MS.
Practice yoga – According to the National MS Society, yoga has a positive impact on the emotional and physical health in people with MS.
Rely on your faith – There is evidence that religious beliefs help people with MS keep a positive outlook on their illness and remain thankful.
Say a prayer – Prayer can take many forms and doesn’t have to be a part of organized religion. Research shows it helps people manage pain better.
Focus on others – Do something each day that makes a difference to the people around you.
Maintain balance and connection – Nurture stable, close relationships.
Talk with others who understand – Come together to ask questions, give advice, and share stories with others who understand life with MS.
Spirituality is important for individuals with MS. It offers emotional strength and a positive outlook. Spiritual practices like meditation, prayer, or mindfulness can help individuals with MS cope with the uncertainties and limitations imposed by the disease. It fosters connection, compassion and a broader perspective on life, enhancing wellbeing and quality of life for those with MS. Want to help us learn more about the benefits of spiritual practices in people with MS? iConquerMS members help to drive MS research into topics like this forward in two ways: (1) by providing valuable data about their personal experiences and (2) by proposing research questions they deem important to answer. If you’re not already a member, please consider joining iConquerMS today and share your insight into spirituality today!
