In Case You Prefer a Different Challenge

One must have unusually ambitious aspirations if planning to climb the highest mountain in North America, and for those who do, this is an admirable trait indeed. But for those who don’t desire the view from 14,000 feet while balancing precariously on a narrow ledge, perhaps a less monumental challenge would be in order.

The majority of us choose to keep our feet firmly planted on the ground, near our creature comforts. We would rather view tall mountains than climb them. But despite this tendency toward a pampered, less risky lifestyle, this does not mean that we are without our own sets of goals, challenges, and achievements.

As a matter of fact, countless activities and triumphs stand right before us, just ready to be taken on in an effort to learn a new skill, accomplish a new goal, or to seek a new challenge. As with the mountain climbers, focusing on one’s ability versus disability is the key.

As people age, and for some, contend with a disorder such as MS, they may experience limited mobility and/or reduced energy. Some may feel defeated because they can no longer participate in highly physical activities; however, many goals can still be earnestly pursued.

Dreams and aspirations simply need to be adjusted to reasonably challenge one’s present capabilities. The idea of discovering new things and setting new goals is what keeps life interesting. Going after new challenges, regardless of whether or not they are fully attained, fills each of us with inspiration, excitement, and a strong sense of accomplishment.

Do you have aspirations, or goals that you regularly set for yourself? How are you staying active, learning new things, and challenging yourself? If nothing immediately comes to mind, think back to when you were younger. What did you enjoy, and what were your dreams?

The way to design a plan of action for yourself is to first find your areas of interest. Then select the level of participation that best suits your present abilities. Always consult your physician before beginning any type of new physical activity.

Some of us are able to actively participate in a sport or hobby, while others may find alternate ways to become involved, such as attending exhibits, games, or shows; starting a collection; or writing about the things they love. The important thing is to keep active and give yourself challenges – even if the challenge is to simply keep on schedule with a certain activity or goal.

Many activities offer multiple benefits. Gardening, for example, is an excellent way to relieve stress while getting a good workout by carrying, reaching, and bending. Gardening is also good for the soul; it connects you with nature, helps to improve your health and attitude, and gives you a feeling of accomplishment. MSAA’s May/June 1999 issue of The Motivator provides a good deal of information about the benefits of gardening, along with sources for “adaptive” gardening – offering information about techniques and special tools to make gardening easier for people with disabilities.

Horseback riding is another great activity that can be approached from many different levels. A rider with strength and balance may enroll in a riding program and take lessons, while someone who is challenged in these areas may join an equine therapy program (also known as “hippotherapy,” which refers to “treatment with the help of a horse”). Either way, individuals who ride experience physical, emotional, and mental rewards.

Riders often enjoy being taller than those on the ground – especially if they spend a lot of time sitting while others stand. Be sure to select a reputable riding facility where the horses are well trained and people-friendly, so your experience will be a positive one. The January/February 1998 issue of The Motivator provides more information on equine therapy.

Swimming or exercising in water (technically known as “water therapy,” “hydrotherapy,” or “aquatics”), are wonderful challenges that offer a wealth of benefits. While swimming is a great activity to do if you are able, please keep in mind that you don’t need to actually “swim” when participating in aquatics. During aquatic classes, instructors often lead participants in the water through various exercises, and “water-walking” has become very popular as well.

Details on the benefits of water therapy may be found in MSAA’s March/April 1997 issue of The Motivator.

These are just three examples of many activities that can give participants pleasure and a sense of accomplishment, while providing the challenges needed to keep us motivated. Other examples include travel, exercise, art, sports, dancing, literature, poetry, and music – just to name a few. Virtually everyone can be involved on some level, whether he or she is a participant, spectator, collector, or writer. In all instances, these motivate us to do our best, excite us with something we enjoy, and show us growth – as we challenge our abilities and see results.

The individuals with MS that climbed Denali were driven to reach to their own limits. They took on one of the most difficult challenges imaginable, spent a year or more preparing, and then made their dream become a reality. Most of us don’t need to climb the tallest mountain, but instead may thrive on the challenges that best meet our own interests, abilities, and dreams. The message here is to find and go after such challenges, despite any physical setbacks we may experience, and continue to live life to the fullest.

For more information on the activities mentioned in previous issues of The Motivator, or to speak with an MSAA client services consultant about other activities, please call 1-800-LEARN MS (1-800-532-7667).