One of the symptoms of MS that many people suffer with is fatigue, it is important to learn to relax and make the most of your ‘rest periods’.

It has also been suggested that stresses contribute to the symptoms, and may also contribute to the frequency and severity of an ‘episode’.  Once again, learning the skills of proper relaxation can, and often will, help. 

There are many forms of relaxation, but people with MS, some of the more common methods, may add to their symptoms eg; reading a book or even watching TV, most people find relaxing, but may cause eye-tiredness, headaches, and even general fatigue with MS. 

To completely relax, you should have a quiet area, with NO outside distractions (noise, movement etc.). For people with MS, relaxation and resting probably mean doing nothing at all, and learning how to 'switch your mind off' rather than sitting and thinking about all the things you SHOULD be doing.

The ancient art of meditation is ideal for this purpose.  In my Links page, I have added a link to a free on-line course for learning mediation. 

Yoga and Tai Chi are also good for the person with MS.

There are many Community Houses that run these courses, usually at a reasonable cost.

http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Tai_Chi

http://www.taichiaustralia.com  

Yoga is a science of life aiming to bring balance between the physical body, the mind and the spirit: between action, intelligence and the higher self, bringing physical health and peace of mind through movement, breathe awareness, relaxation and meditation techniques.

http://www.iyta.org.au

STRESS

Here is a link that I have found very interesting, and a good, informative read.  It helps you to define stress in your life.

http://www.ivf.com/stress.html