Choosing, applying makeup are my favorite ways to practice self-care
The practice provides this columnist, who has RRMS, an escape from reality
Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) brings both highs and lows to my life. Sometimes these moments will fluctuate throughout the day, while other times, the highs and lows can last for days at a time.
When I experience a sustained low, I’ll find myself stuck in bed with no energy or will to seize the day. A low can be characterized by an intense bout of symptoms, including chronic fatigue, migraines, bladder dysfunction, pain, tingling, and blurred or spotty vision.
On those days, I let multiple sclerosis (MS) win, because dealing with the consequences of trying to fight back would make it much worse. Nevertheless, it’s important that I find creative outlets and practice self-care after navigating a difficult period. One of my favorite ways to practice self-care is to apply my makeup.
Until the summer before my senior year in high school, my mom only allowed me to use a limited number of makeup products. Nevertheless, I spent countless hours watching makeup tutorials. When she finally gave me the green light, makeup became a form of therapy for me.
A work of art: Desiree Lama’s affinity for applying makeup is both a form of self-expression and self-care. (Courtesy of Desiree Lama)
Whenever a grueling episode of symptoms occurs and I can’t fully participate in daily activities, I feel disconnected from my humanity and the world at large, because I isolate myself. When those periods pass, I always need a way to reconnect with myself. So I do my makeup and put on a nice outfit, which makes me feel like I can conquer the world. When you look good, you feel good!
Makeup provides me an escape from reality and lets me concentrate on something else for a while. It distracts my mind from the difficulties of living with MS. The beauty of makeup, for me, lies in how present I am in the moment and the amount of attention I give to every detail.
Makeup gives me the freedom to get lost in time, something that rarely happens with anything else. It offers a therapeutic experience that helps me focus on something positive and enjoyable outside of life with MS, which is essential for my and emotional and mental well-being.
There are many forms of therapy and self-care, such as art, exercise, music, reading, spending time with loved ones, and much more. These types of outlets can empower those of us with MS by helping us to preserve our sense of identity and enhancing our quality of life.
What is your favorite form of therapy and self-care? Please share in the comments below.
Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.
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