211. Pep Talk: Rediscovering Personal Growth on Your MS Journey

Join me on The MSing Link Podcast as I recount a recent trip to Boston, where I worked in-person patients with multiple sclerosis to enhance their mobility and quality of life. In this episode, I focus on functional exercises and neuroplasticity techniques tailored for MS, highlighting unique patient goals such as improving posture, breathing, and core strength.  Whether you're working on walking better or tackling specific MS challenges, tune in for expert tips and strategies. Don't miss out on valuable insights from a specialized physical therapist dedicated to helping you live your best life with multiple sclerosis. Resources mentioned in this episode: The MSing Link Podcast, Episode 203, MS Pre-hab 101: How Pre-habilitation Can Transform Your Multiple Sclerosis Journey - Apple || Spotify Application for Gretchen’s group coaching: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/group-coaching-application Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Join me on this episode of The MSing Link Podcast as I discuss effective exercises to improve walking and mobility for people with multiple sclerosis. Hear testimonials from members of The MSing Link wellness program, including Debi, Maria, and Sophia, who share their inspiring progress.  Learn about the importance of quality over quantity in exercise routines, tailored exercise plans, and the benefits of community support. Discover strategies like exaggerated walking, bridesmaid walking, and weight shifting that have significantly helped our members. Don't miss out on practical MS exercise tips, expert advice, and personal success stories.   Want to see if The MSing Link is a good fit for you? Check it out here: https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-program   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this heartfelt episode, I share a moving story about my mini tree and the powerful lessons it taught me about growth and resilience. Join me as I explore how this analogy relates to our MS journeys and reminds us that progress is possible, even in tough times. Let's inspire each other to keep growing and thriving with MS! Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

Tired of feeling stiff and unsteady when you get up from your desk or couch? In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite tips and tricks to help you move more easily with multiple sclerosis, especially after sitting or lying down for a while. As a physical therapist who works with the MS community every day, I'll walk you through simple but powerful exercises to make those tricky transitions smoother and help you feel more confident in your daily movements. Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I’m joined by Emily Foggio to talk about how to plan a vacation when you’re living with multiple sclerosis. We dive into practical tips for traveling with MS, handling mobility challenges, and making your trip as stress-free as possible. Whether you're worried about managing MS symptoms or finding accessible accommodations, we’ve got you covered with strategies to help you enjoy your vacation to the fullest! Emily Foggio is a certified occupational therapist and the founder of ExplorABLE Travels, helping people with mobility limitations travel the world. While pursuing a degree in psychology and dancing with a local ballet company, she was introduced to adaptive dance programs for children with Autism and Down syndrome, sparking her interest in occupational therapy. In 2020, Emily earned her master’s degree in occupational therapy and began working in inpatient rehab. Her career has been dedicated to empowering individuals to regain independence in meaningful activities. She has seen firsthand how travel dreams can feel out of reach for those with functional limitations, but she has also experienced the joy of helping them adapt their plans to make those dreams a reality. These experiences led her to create ExplorABLE Travels. Emily’s mission is to help everyone, regardless of ability level, explore and discover the world. Whether it’s a standard trip or an accessible travel adventure, she is committed to crafting a journey that is uniquely yours. Resources mentioned in this episode: The TSA Cares helpline number is (855) 787-2227: Hours: Weekdays, 8 AM–11 PM ET; weekends and holidays, 9 AM–8 PM ET Federal relay: 711  Emily’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/explorable_travels/   Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In today’s episode of The MSing Link Podcast, we’re talking about the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis that many people don’t always recognize at first. Things like fatigue, tingling, and changes in vision can all be signs of MS — but they’re easy to miss. I’ll share some tips on how to spot these early MS signs and why early detection is so important. Join Dr. Gretchen's email list: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/EmailList  Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode of The MSing Link podcast, I share my favorite MS mobility aids and tools for chronic illness that can improve mobility, ease daily tasks, and enhance your quality of life. Whether you're looking to improve walking or increase independence, these products are designed to support those with multiple sclerosis in managing daily challenges and improving strength. I hope you enjoy this year's Holiday Gift Guide!! Products mentioned in this episode: Kizik Boots - Code: DOCTORGRETCHEN10 for 10% OFF Silicone Body & Hair Scrubber + Lotion Applicator Toilet Armrests Fashionable Canes Liberare Bra - Code: DRGRETCHEN15 for 15% OFF The MSing Link audiobook Cadense Sneakers - Code: DRGRETCHEN10 for 10% OFF Naboso Standing Mat - Code: DRGRETCHEN10 for 10% OFF Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode of the MSing Link Podcast, I’m sharing a pep talk for anyone who feels like their goals with multiple sclerosis are too far away to reach. If you’ve been struggling to stay motivated or make progress with MS, I’m here to remind you that small steps matter. Together, we’ll talk about simple strategies to build strength, improve walking with MS, and keep moving forward, even when things feel tough. Tune in for some encouragement and tips to help you improve your quality of life with MS! Resources mentioned in this episode: Check out The MSing Link program - https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-program  Sign up for emails - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/EmailList  Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Panizzolo about the Exoband, an innovative assistive technology for individuals with multiple sclerosis. We discuss what the Exoband is, who it’s for, and how it enhances mobility and strength. If you’re seeking effective tools and strategies to improve your quality of life with MS, tune in to learn how the Exoband can support your journey! Dr. Panizzolo is a Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Sport Science. He completed his PhD at the University of Western Australia in Biomechanics & Motor control and was a researcher at the Biodesign Lab of Harvard University and the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering.   After carrying out research in Canada, Australia and the United States, he founded Moveo. The company is producing ExoBand, the most lightweight wearable device ever made to help people walk better. Resources mentioned in this episode: Exoband website - https://www.moveowalks.com/  Exoband Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/moveowalks  Sign up for Dr. Gretchen's email list - https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/EmailList  Check out The MSing Link program - https://www.drgretchenhawley.com/the-msing-link-program  Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink  

In this episode of our podcast, I'm chatting with Amy Behimer! We tackle the challenges of maintaining healthy habits and staying consistent. Discover why it’s hard to stay on track, learn that setbacks aren’t your fault, and explore practical tips to boost your motivation. This episode offers valuable insights to enhance your quality of life with MS. Tune in for essential strategies to create positive habits, and maintain them! Amy lives with multiple sclerosis and has experienced massive shifts in physical, mental, and emotional health as a result of coaching, making it her mission to serve others by helping them love their life after a diagnosis. Amy shares stories, strategies, questions for self-discovery, and the science of all things habits and autoimmune health on her weekly podcast - The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Health. She offers both private and group coaching programs for people ready to make the shift from managing autoimmune disease to creating autoimmune health.  Resources mentioned in this episode: The Habit Hub for Autoimmune Podcast: https://thehabithubpodcast.amybehimercoaching.com/   Club Habit Hub Program: https://amybehimercoaching.com/join Amy's Habit Quiz: http://www.amybehimercoaching.com/quiz  Amy's Website: https://amybehimercoaching.com/  Amy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amybehimercoaching/  Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: [email protected]  Website: www.MSingLink.com Social:  ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1   → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink