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Chronically Living and how to make the most of it
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Chronically Living and how to make the most of it

Author: Kelsey

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The goal of the show is to provide tangible ways to improve the well-being of chronic illness warriors.Do you have a chronic illness or chronic pain and you are open to trying new ways to improving your life? If you answered yes, then this show can help you explore new ways to do this. Kelsey Harris has a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Canada. She is also a person with lived experience with diagnoses of UCTD, fibromyalgia, and gluacoma, who has and continues to explore ways to improve her own well-being, and that for the rest of the Spoonie community. There are many ways to heal, and to improve well-being and quality of life, and some of the ways guest healthcare professionals, guests with lived experience, and Kelsey as she presents mental health coping skills, may work well for you. We want your subjective well-being and quality of life to be better! The show has two formats: first is solo episodes, where Kelsey presents coping skills and psychoeducation for mental health as it relates to chronic illness and chronic pain. The second is guest interviews with healthcare professionals and fellow chronic illness warriors who give alternative models to well-being. Episodes are released weekly.
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In this final episode of Chronically Living, we discuss the concept of willingness and how living with a chronic illness or chronic pain requires a certain amount of willingness in order to live a fulfilling life.In this episode we discuss:the two meanings of willingnessknight in armour analogyFollow the Chronically Living blog: chronically-living.comFollow my mindfulness YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPTEQ7DqAud1EErmnELMjvQFollow me on Instagram @chronically.living_
Yoga is a mindful movement practice that a lot of people with chronic illnesses have said is helpful for them. There is also a ton of empirical research supporting its use with a number of conditions. But what exactly are the benefits? MS Warrior and Yoga Instructor, Clarissa Hidalgo joins us to explain the benefits she has found.In this episode we discuss:the benefits of yogadifferent types of yoga practiceswhy you shouldn't dismiss it so quicklyGuest BioClarissa Hidalgo (RYT 200) received her yoga teacher certification in the spring of 2017. She began practicing after being treated for Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in 2010, and experiencing mobility issues since 2012. Since the beginning, yoga benefited her physically, yet since her training she realized the various emotion, mental, and wellness benefits of her practice. Receiving her BA in psychology from the University of California, Merced in 2012, she was not only able to incorporate and recognize the benefits of yoga physically and mentally, but tap into the mindfulness and self-healing powers as well.After the delivery of her beautiful baby girl, she embraced her renewed sense of self and life, realizing that after many years she would finally fulfill her destiny to become a diffuser of yogic wisdom. Her personal philosophy is, YOGA IS FOR EVERYONE, EVERYTHING, AT ANY TIME!!Follow Clarissa across social media @MultipleSclerosisMamasFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
TW: talk of death, thoughts of dying.Many people hate the "m" word for various reasons, but the reason often given is "it' won't help me or cure me." Here's the thing, many people have said it does help them, and mindset doesn't necessarily mean being an eternal optimist. Terry Tucker, a cancer warrior, talks about mindset, health and his principles to a good life.In this episode we talk about:the idea that pain is inevitable but suffering is optionalkeeping hope aliveSustainable ExcellenceGuest Bio:In 2012, Terry Tucker was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Acral Lentiginous Melanoma, which presented on the bottom of his foot. By the time the melanoma was detected, it had metastasized. Over the past 9 years, Terry has had several different treatments, and keeps fighting. One thing he learned during all his pain and suffering is that you have two choices. You can succumb to the debilitating discomfort and misery, or you can learn to embrace it and use it to make you a stronger and better human being. He chose the latter.He recently wrote a book, entitled Sustainable Excellence, Ten Principles to Leading Your Uncommon and Extraordinary Life, to help people find and live their uncommon and extraordinary life. The ten principles outlined in the book will provide the bedrock necessary to form the foundation of unshakable beliefs and dedicated behaviors to reinforce your attitude, no matter how much pain you must endure or how many obstacles you must overcome. His hope is that people who read the book will lead a life of significance, as well as a life of success. He understands what it is like to fight for your life and one thing I’ve learned is that as long as you don’t quit, you can never be defeated.Check out Terry's website: https://www.motivationalcheck.com/Follow Terry on Twitter: https://twitter.com/terrytucker2012Follow Terry on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-tucker-9b5605179/Follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
Here's the problem with routines, while many people find them extremely helpful, it can be hard to establish one when you have a chronic illness because you never know how you're going to feel physically from day to day. My guest this week, MS warrior, Patti Kaye Bevilacqua explains how she has been able to establish a morning routine and how it has helped her.In this episode we talk aboutMantras and setting intentionshow to establish a daily routineMS stands for mindset shiftGuest Bio:In September 1989, Patti Kaye Bevilacqua started her dream job, teaching high school physical education. However, five months later, before the end of her first year of teaching, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Ten years later, she was forced to leave the only job she ever wanted due to worsening symptoms of MS.In 2001, she went back to university to pursue graduate studies at the University of Toronto. Her ultimate goal in life was to teach and supervise others keen to enter the teaching profession. In 2005 she graduated with a Ph.D. in Teacher Development. My research focused on the impact of chronic disease on teacher identity. She never secured a tenured position as a teacher educator and went on long-term disability in 2007. Fourteen years later, she discovered her life with MS was far richer when she focused on living each day as my best self. This shift in mindset became my newfound purpose in life; to help others with chronic diseases move forward with renewed optimism and a zest for life. She is committed to sharing her message with as many people facing challenging obstacles as possible, urging them to replace "I can't" with "I will" and embrace the best version of themselves. She is a dedicated MS influencer, motivational speaker, personal coach, and writer. Check out Patti's website: https://pattikaye.com/Join her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringwomenwithmsBuy Absolute Will on Amazon.Follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
The noticing self is that part of you that notices everything. It can help you see that you are more than just your illness (or pain). You are more than just your thoughts and feelings and sensations.In this episode we talk about: what the noticing self islife being like a stage show2 exercises to help you with the noticing selfHere's some guided practice as well:There Go Your Thoughts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQ_LEQVERH8The Continuous You: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dir7xpDcX2AFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon and get weekly bonus content:https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
This week my guest, actress and psoriatic arthritis warrior, Jessica Lorion, and I discuss the idea of having a baby and starting a family when you have an autoimmune disease. This includes some major lifestyle changes Jessica has had to make.In this episode we talk about:family planning with autoimmune diseasethe Autoimmune Solutions Diet/AIP dietThe "Why" Behind Your GoalGuest BioJessica has spent the past 10 years as a professional actor and voice over artist in New York City. Now, as the Host and Producer of the Mamas in Training Podcast, she supports pregnant women and aspiring moms on their journey into motherhood. What makes her show different from other pregnancy and motherhood podcasts is that she is NOT yet a mom. An autoimmune disease has delayed her journey into motherhood and she has decided to learn right alongside her audience.With a background in performing on stage, in front of camera, as well as being a professional singer, her mission is to spread the importance of studying motherhood. She intends to use her voice and desire to connect with women everywhere, to share the lessons she has learned and give community to those in need. Check out Jessica's websites: https://www.mamasintraining.com/ and https://jessicalorion.comFollow Mamas in Training on Instagram @mamasintrainingpod and on Facebook @mamasintrainingFollow Jessica on Instagram @jessicalorionFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
You may have heard of the vagus nerve before, and it's wondrous healing powers. You probably haven't heard of microcurrent stimulation for the vagus nerve... and if you're like me, you won't have heard of the Hache protocol which integrates these with some lifestyle factors. My guest this week is holistic healthcare practitioner and former chronic pain warrior, Dr. Rob Vanbergen, who tells us about this protocol.In this episode we discuss:what is the Hache protocolthe vagus nerve and microcurrent stimulationat-home tips you can use now!Guest Bio:Rob Vanbergen is a Certified HHP (Holistic Healthcare Practitioner) with training in Biofeedback, Neurofeedback, Hypnotherapy, Homeopathy, Auriculotherapy, and Counselling. In 2021 he went on to receive is Doctorate of Natural Medicine and a PhD in Natural Medicine. After discovering the Hache Protocol for Pain Resolution, he healed his scoliosis and continues to use it today as he parents his autistic son.Rob has devoted his professional life to educating people about the effectiveness of natural pain management methods in relieving pain and anxiety and initiating healing in the body.Check out Rob's website: https://painfreeforlife.com/For a Lovingkindness meditation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsLG52NuvGk For a Kind Hand meditation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbRsZ68dOcYFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
We're talking about values-based living. Doing things to improve our lives, even with chronic illness and chronic pain, which sometimes means going outside of our comfort zone. This is the second-part to the episode, "Why Can Connecting With Your Values Improve Your Well-Being?"In this episode we discuss:what values based living isSMART goal settingHARD barriers to living by our values and how to overcome themSupport the show and get this week's Patreon contact by following this link: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_livingFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_
Sometimes we get advice from our doctor's that we don't like. Sometimes we get advice that is hard to follow. This could be lifestyle changes, or taking medication properly. Either way, we need to at the very least take it into consideration and hopefully actually follow it. Emily Marquis, health coach and chronic illness warrior, is here to share how we can do this.In this episode we talk about:what a health coach doeshow to get started with following doctor adviceSMART goal settingGuest BioEmily Marquis is a Clinical Health and Wellness Coach, board certified NBC-HWC. She is an RYT200 Yoga Instructor and Mindfulness Consultant. Emily works with individuals and groups in support of creating healthy habits for sustainable lifestyle change. Drawing from her professional training and personal health challenges; she has experience in preventing, reducing, and managing chronic illness from stress to sleep to weight loss to work life balance. With her combined coaching and corporate HR background, Emily works with organizations in creating cultures of wellness and is NAHU certified. Emily also works with clinics and fellow practitioners to create a village for clients to best support their well-being. She is an Instructor at Emory University in their graduate Coaching certificate program. Emily lives in Colorado, USA with her family and loves the balance between a good TV show and an outdoor adventure.https://emilymarquis.com/Follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon and get bonus content weekly! https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
Plant-based lifestyle coach and cookbook author, Kathy A. Davis, joins me this week as we discuss the benefits of eating plant-based foods and the impact on overall health and wellness, as well as results she's seen with some of her clients who have chronic illnesses.In this episode we discuss:benefits of plant-based diethow to track how food makes you feelan awesome recipe to get us startedGuest Bio:Kathy Davis is a plant-based lifestyle coach and recipe developer, the CEO of VegInspired.com, and the author of three cookbooks: The 30-Minute Whole-Food Plant-Based Cookbook, The Super Easy Plant-Based Cookbook, and The Budget-Friendly Plant-Based Diet Cookbook. She helps people successfully transition to a plant-based way of eating that supports a fast-paced lifestyle, without requiring hours in the kitchen or added stress. Kathy has been eating and creating vegan meals for more than seven years. Over the past year and a half, she shifted her daily habits to follow a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. She experienced amazing results: renewed energy, a newfound sense of joy, and a healthier mind and body! Kathy’s brand, Veginspired, is dedicated to providing people with the resources to make a similar transformation. She is eager to guide others on their journey to get from where they are to where they want to be. Fun fact: Kathy and her husband, John, are living their plant-based dream while simultaneously traveling the United States in an RV with their cats. They’ve been to 22 states and 18 national parks so far, and have a goal to visit all the US national parks! Follow Kathy on Instagram @veginspiredVisit Kathy's website for her cookbooks and coaching: veginspired.comJoin Kathy's Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/veginspiredfoodiesFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_ and on Twitter @janevspain.Support the show on Patreon to access weekly bonus content (this week: why water intake is important): https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
This week we're figuring out what our values are, particularly our values concerning health. Why? Because it can actually improve our well-being. How? That's a question with a longer answer, and so, this is part one of a two-part episode (part two is coming out December 27). It's helpful (though not required) to review the episodes on Creative Hopelessness, Contacting the Present Moment, Distancing Ourselves from Our Thoughts, and Acceptance of Pain before listening to this episode.In this episode we talk about:values vs. goalswhy values can help with our health and well-beinghow to figure out what our values areFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_ and on Twitter @janevspain.To sign up for Instacart, follow this link: https://instacart.oloiyb.net/chronicallylivingTo support the show on Patreon for bonus content (this week it's more values exercises), follow this link: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
This week we explore what inflammation actually does in our body, and how what we eat can affect it. But this isn't a follow this specific diet episode. Elizabeth Yarnell, ND, helps us understand how individually tailoring what we eat to ourselves can usually do the trick.In this episode we discuss:what inflammation isthree-step process to testing for inflammationhow to figure out what we can and can't eathow all of this can impact our overall healthGuest Bio:Since being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at age 30, Elizabeth Yarnell has spent the past 20 years studying how to manage autoimmunity naturally as a traditional naturopath. She’s worked with hundreds of MS and other autoimmune sufferers in her nationwide clinic using unique, personalized natural therapies to help them slow or even reverse the course of their disease. She’s a TEDx speaker, award-winning author whose cookbook has sold more than 60,000 copies, a patented inventor, and has been featured on CBS, NBC, ABC, and PBS as well as in Good Housekeeping, Health, Martha Stewart Living Radio, and many other outlets.You can find Elizabeth @ elizabethyarnell.comCheck out her MS diet website: multiplesclerosisdiet.comFind her cookbook @ gloriousonepotmeals.comFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
Merriam Webster defines resilience as: "the ability to become strong, healthy, or successful again after something bad happens." When you have a chronic illness, resilience is what helps you get through it so that you can actually live a fulfilling, values-based life. My guest this week is Lindsay Miller, a strength and resiliency coach who happens to have Hashimoto's.In this episode we talk about:Lindsay's health journeywhat resilience is and ways to cultivate itwhat we can learn from the resiliency of natureGuest BioLindsay Miller, is the host of the the Stress Nanny Podcast and founder of thestressnanny.com.  She has a degree in Child Development as well as Mindfulness, Yoga and Health Coaching Certifications.  Lindsay helps women and children recover from stressful experiences and build resilience for the future.  In her podcast and courses, she shares tools to help clients uncover their strengths, develop healthy habits, and improve their self-talk. By creating a safe space to work through stressful situations like family conflict, divorce, illness, infertility and loss, Lindsay supports clients as they unlock their potential to live meaningfully and intentionally in any situation.Check out Lindsay's website: www.thestressnanny.comFollow Lindsay on Instagram @thestressnannyFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon and get access to bonus content (this week it is how Lindsay meal plans around the holidays). 
Pain - both physical and emotional - is part of the human experience, but it's also a part that most of us don't like. However, in order to truly live fulfilled lives, we need to be able to accept it. This is especially true for chronic illness warriors.In this episode we talk about:what acceptance is and isn'twhy acceptance is importantdifferent types of acceptancean acceptance practice to get you startedCheck out the following acceptance practices:Urge SurfingThe Kind HandObserve-Breathe-Expand-AllowSign up for Instacart using this link.Support the show on Patreon and get  bonus content every week!Follow me on Instagram @chronically.living_
This week we're exploring a chronic illness that we haven't before, and yet is extremely common - cancer. The lessons from this episode, can easily be applied to any chronic illness though. And we all know or have known someone with cancer. My guest this week is Em Veach who shares her story and what has helped her.In this episode we talk about:metastatic breast cancerways to improve your well-being after a cancer diagnosisa new product for cancer patients from Em's startup, Casual RecoveryGuest Bio:Em Veach is COO of Casual Recovery, a medical device startup. We invented a wearable surgical recovery garment out of necessity. The company founder, Aisha McCain, invented and patented the garment with the support of her plastic surgeon. Now, we are building an all-star team and raising funds to deliver our products to people who need them. Ms. Veach, who is also a cancer survivor, is passionate about helping people and funding research for more effective, less toxic treatments for cancer and other diseases. She is a graduate of Indiana University and trained at the Knight New Media Center as well as the National Breast Cancer Coalition’s Project LEAD advocacy program. To purchase from Casual Recovery go to: casualrecovery.comFor Em's podcast and website go to: tenthwind.comFollow Em on Instagram @gertrudeemilyPurchase from The Balm Box at: thebalmbox.com.Follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/chronically_living
TW: mentions of suicideWe're usually told by our doctors that the causes of our chronic pain are related to joints. This is often verified by the use of an MRI. But for some people, nothing shows up on an MRI. And for others, what shows up has nothing to do with their symptoms. My guest Dr. Mitchell Yass introduces us to his Yass Method for diagnosing and treating pain.In this episode we talk about:causes of  paindiagnosing painthe Yass MethodGuest Bio:Dr. Mitchell Yass is a physical therapist and the developer of the Yass Method. This method interprets the body’s presentation of symptoms to identify the tissue in distress eliciting those very symptoms. Chronic pain affects 130 million Americans and roughly 1,000,000,000 people worldwide. The primary cause of chronic pain is misdiagnosis. This is directly associated with the baseless use of the MRI. He can provide theoretical, clinical and scientific evidence to substantiate my position. I have treated thousands of people resolving their pain even after surgery failed.Check out his YouTube Channel: Dr.  Mitchell YassFollow him on Facebook @The Yass MethodFollow him on Instagram @live_without_painsCheck out his website: livewithoutpains.comEmail him: drmitch@drmitchellyass.comFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Follow the show on Facebook @chronically livingFollow the show on Twitter @janevspainSupport the show on Patreon.
We're continuing our journey through the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy hexaflex this week by taking a look at defusion - or rather, creating distance between ourselves and our thoughts. When our thoughts are too close to us, they tend to interfere with our lives, leading us to behaviour that is the opposite of what we want (we want mindful, values-based living).In this episode we talk about:common chronic illness thoughtshands as thoughts and feelings metaphor to explain defusionsome techniques you can use to create that distanceThe meditation music in this episode was "Deep Into Nature" composed by Music of Wisdom - licensed from www.meditationmusiclibrary.com.The link to my YouTube channel for the full Leaves on a Stream meditation is: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPTEQ7DqAud1EErmnELMjvQFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_ and on Twitter @janevspainSupport the show on Patreon.Sign up for Instacart using this link.
Connections, community, networking. These are important for our well-being. We need support, but also we need to just engage with others as social creatures. Lifelong chronic illness warrior Amy Sinha joins me on the show to talk about where to find these connections and how to make them.In this episode we talk about:why connection and community is important for well-beingwhere to make new connections onlinedifferent types of connections to makehow to go about making connectionsGuest Bio:Amy Sinha is a British Asian vocalist, songwriter, present, voice over artist and entrepreneur from Wales, UK. She was submerged in music from an early age, performing in her first talent contest at age 6. She studied classical piano and singing, but developed a intimate love affair with jazz in her teens. She experienced some rare medical conditions in her early years, being declared as being one out of only 5 children like her in the UK at the time. She went on to graduate from Leeds College of Music with a BA (Hons) degree in music specialising in jazz. She released her debut album in 2012 called 'A Sin With Love,' then 3 more singles after that. She released 2 singles with a New York record label. She has a YouTube channel where she has interviewed musicians such as Ronnie Scott's Saxophonist, Derek Nash, Rat Pack Legend, Buddy Greco, and Clint Eastwood's son, Kyle Eastwood.Check out Amy's website: www.amysinha.comFollow Amy on Instagram and Facebook: @amysinhaFollow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_ and on Twitter @janevspainSupport the show on Patreon and get exclusive bonus content for each episode.Sign up for Instacart using this link.
This week we're exploring what sounds like the weird world of hypnotherapy, but in fact, it is nothing like you think it is.  This week Sam Visnic joins us to tell us he uses hypnotherapy in his practice, and how it helps people with chronic pain.In this episode we talk about:what hypnotherapy ishow hypnotherapy can help chronic painwho makes a good candidate for hypnotherapyGuest Bio:Sam Visnic has spent his life studying the fundamental aspects of human health with a focus on movement and clinical massage therapy. In a world of specialists, surgical procedures, drugs and quick fix remedies, he’s committed to finding and developing strategies that help people stuck at the “gap”. Sam has studied dozens of systems and methodologies for uncovering the root cause of aches and pains, along with postural and movement issues. Pain science, the art and science of hands-on soft tissue massage techniques, myofascial release, and coaching movement is essential in his practice. Integrating different methods but above all deciphering WHEN to use different techniques with different people and situations, along with integration of movements that people want to be able to do again is the key to long term success with Sam’s incredible track record with his personal clients. Understanding the various elements that contribute to conditions and the power of communication and education makes his Release Muscle Therapy program unique from other hands-on therapy approaches. For a free copy of his digital book + other resources found at the bottom of the homepage: https://releasemuscletherapy.comFollow Sam on Facebook: https://facebook.com/releasemuscletherapyFollow Sam on Instagram: https://instagram.com/releasemuscletherapyCheck out Sam's YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/samvisnicDon't forget to follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_Support the show on Patreon!
One of the 6 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) processes is Contacting the Present Moment. And guess what?! ACT has a huge evidence base for helping people with chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as mental health. But how do we do this (in a way that isn't formal meditation)? That's what we're exploring this week.In this episode we talk about:the 6 processes in ACT"mindfulness" for chronic pain and illnesswhy we need to drop the struggledropping anchor (experiential)The recommended self-help reading is "The Happiness Trap" by Russ Harris.Click the link for a guided version of Dropping Anchor.Follow the show on Instagram @chronically.living_  and on Twitter @janevspain and on Facebook @ Chronically Living.Support the show on Patreon!
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