TraXel: Holistic Approach for Wellness in MS (Episode 6): Bridging Healthcare Gaps, Part 2 Hello Everyone, This episode continues the conversation of Empowerment and taking the LEAD of our own health ! It's essential to have a comprehensive approach to healthcare. A Mind, Body and Soul connection helps with overall well-being versus just treating symptoms only. Let's look at the bigger picture - Incorporating holistic health like meditation, breath work, mindfulness and body awareness provides a great foundation to build on. In addition to this, adding movement throughout the day ( even in 10-20 minute increments ) , and getting proper nutrition and sleep, can only add to our wellness. This whole person centered approach to wellness will help us to "meet in the middle" and bridge the gap in healthcare. Only when these foundational needs are met, can we truly reap the benefits of medications , procedures, therapies, etc. Perhaps , maybe , not even need to rely on these as much or at all one day. Two examples of foundational needs also include getting to the root cause of disease ( most likely will need to have another episode to discuss this topic ) and the importance of proper metabolic health. Many chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes and heart disease can be linked to a disruption of metabolic health. Other conditions like liver disease , cancer and autoimmune diseases can be tied to it as well. Metabolism definitely plays a huge role with the immune system and research is still ongoing in regards to direct ties specifically to MS. Our metabolism breaks down food and turns it into energy. If we are eating properly ( nutrient dense whole foods like fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and proteins , and a high fiber diet ) then we produce good , efficient energy. This is needed for optimal functioning and overall health. There are many symptoms that we do not have complete or any control over , like fatigue, numbness, pain , spasticity or dizziness. However, it's very important to focus on what we can do for ourselves and practice self care. Make it a priority to nourish our Mind, nourish our Body and therefore nourish our Soul. "The greatest medicine of all is teaching people how not to need it." - Hippocrates Let's continue to help keep each other healthy AND happy!

Hello Everyone ! This is a big topic as I mentioned in the latest podcast episode , but I just wanted to start with 3 simple components to discuss : First one being - Awareness and simply starting the conversation. Trillions of dollars are being spent on healthcare and Americans , as a whole, are sicker with more chronic diseases than ever before. The question is "Why is this and what can be done?" The importance of spreading the word on ideas on how to bridge the gap in healthcare and sharing with others and your providers is a good step. Second - Advocating for yourself and loved ones is crucial. No one knows your body better than you. It's ok and necessary to speak up and ask questions. It's Ok to have providers repeat what you don't understand and need clarification as to why certain treatments are recommended or ordered. It's also Ok to ask "What other options are there so I can make the best possible decision ?" or ask yourself " What do I think would be helpful and what small changes can I make to improve my well-being overall ?" Knowledge is power and action is empowering. Third - Nurse coaching is finally starting to make some small , but mighty ripple effects in our communities in the last several years. We still have a long way to go, but the process and the "paradigm shift" for helping to fill this gap in healthcare are headed in the right direction. As more hospitals and clinics start to recognize the importance of an additional layer of support for patients with coaching , real changes can be made. Most people just want to be heard and seen as they are as a person and not just another patient. Nurse coaching provides a whole person centered approach to help guide patients to see their true potential for change. "The change process is grounded in an awareness that effective change evolves from within before it can be manifested and maintained externally." ( Nurse Coaching Integrative Approaches for Health and Wellbeing p.4) In conclusion, I hope everyone has a fantastic week and let's continue to help keep each other healthy ! Traxel's Nurse Coach, Lami

Holistic health is a whole person centered approach to wellness. This approach acknowledges how our mind , body and soul are interconnected for overall well-being. Our thoughts can influence our body in a negative way through stress or in positive way with a sense of calmness and peace. Our bodies can be a foundation for a deeper connection to the soul that is empowering. 1. Mindfulness - The importance of sitting in stillness allows for self-reflection and is key to finding clarity and strength. Meditation, journaling or using the power of slow breathing are helpful ways to obtaining self awareness. "Mental fitness" is just like physical fitness and the gym, it takes time and patience. With practice, mindfulness will slowly get easier. Be kind to yourself with this process. 2. Body - Taking care of our physical health is important for so many reasons such as improving the immune system, for stress reduction and energy, and also keeping the nervous system at an optimal level. Our body is a vessel to be taken care of properly, even more so with chronic disease such as multiple sclerosis. 3. Soul - The inner essence or truest self. We can have all the proper nutrition , practice mindfulness, and exercise every week, but not integrating a connection to the soul can still leave you feeling off balance. What does connection to the soul mean ? This quote is a good summary .... "Quiet the mind and the soul will speak." - Ma Jaya Bhagavati One of many interpretations include getting attuned to your inner core or energy. One example would be finding what makes you happy and gives you peace. Being honest with yourself and truly connecting is key - think of what drains your energy and what brings you energy. Let go of what no longer serves you to help guide you. It is important to trust the process and trust your POWER. Awareness of holistic health and the integration of our mind, body and soul can be so empowering - We are stronger than we realize. We are all unique in our own journey to health , but we are still in this together. Let's continue to keep each other healthy. Conclusion with a great reminder : Think what nourishes your mind Eat what nourishes your body Do what nourishes your soul !