What tips would you give a friend living with ankylosing spondylitis (AS)?

You may reach a point where the pain is unbearable, the fatigue is all consuming, and the frustration makes you want to quit. You may beat yourself up mentally, feel like your merely a shell of your former self, and you will want to quit. You will think that you weren't born to be this way and life is unfair. To that I can only say, you were born you, you have developed into you and now you have to redevelop into a new you. Will you let it beat you or will you discover a new you that can adapt. I'm with you

Hi


at the risk of posting this inspirational poem again (sorry if anyone has already read it), I'd share this with them. Plus, all the excellent tips already posted. 😀


The Mountain
If the mountain seems too big today
then climb a hill instead
if the morning brings you sadness
it’s ok to stay in bed
If the day ahead weighs heavy
and your plans feel like a curse
there’s no shame in rearranging
don’t make yourself feel worse
If a shower stings like needles
and a bath feels like you’ll drown
if you haven’t washed your hair for days
don’t throw away your crown
A day is not a lifetime
a rest is not defeat
don’t think of it as failure
just a quiet, kind retreat
It’s ok to take a moment
from an anxious, fractured mind
the world will not stop turning
while you get realigned
The mountain will still be there
when you want to try again
you can climb it in your own time
just love yourself til then

Laura Ding-Edwards 2019 ©

Completely agree with everything that Rick and Ali have said! Also, listen to your body and don't push yourself over the edge. Sometimes it is better to rest than to cause yourself any more damage!


Another thing I have learned is that the further down this journey I go, the more I learn about my body and how to manage my condition. Don't be afraid to experiment with new things, whether that is something physical like Tai Chi or making some dietary adjustments. There are so many different tips and tricks out there to try and some of them might help you a great deal!

That it's ok to be sad! And to try and help your body as much as possible! Like Rick said, take your meds and exercise, and get a good sleeps and eat healthy.