Mind-Body Connection for Multiple Sclerosis with Eileen Laird

Dec 01, 2023

Eileen Laird, a writer, podcast host, and autoimmune warrior has been living a vital life with rheumatoid arthritis. Eileen is the creative mind behind the popular website and podcast, Phoenix Helix, which provides invaluable information and inspiration for those navigating the challenges of autoimmune health. During this episode, Eileen discusses her newly published book, "Healing Mindset," which serves as a guide to unlocking the potential of the mind-body connection for individuals dealing with autoimmune diseases. She shares her top three favorite mind-body techniques, designed to promote a sense of calm and presence, even during difficult flares. 

 

Eileen's Journey and Diagnosis:

Before diving into the mind-body techniques, Eileen briefly recounts her personal journey and diagnosis. In 2012, Eileen was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a condition that progressed rapidly and severely impacted her life. She emphasizes how she went from a healthy and active woman to being disabled by pain and inflammation within just six months. Her story is a testament to the sudden and life-altering impact of autoimmune diseases. Eileen's experience with autoimmune diseases is characterized by a challenging and overwhelming period of uncertainty, but over the years, she has learned to navigate and thrive despite the challenges.

 

Mind-Body Techniques and Their Benefits:

Eileen's book, "Healing Mindset," delves into the world of mind-body techniques and their profound impact on individuals with autoimmune diseases. These techniques are designed to engage the mind in ways that reduce stress reactivity, ultimately benefiting the body in a tangible and physical manner. The science behind this connection is known as psychoneuroimmunology, which explores the interplay between thoughts, feelings, the nervous system, and the immune system. The book provides a comprehensive overview of mind-body techniques that offer numerous benefits, such as:

  1. Reduction in stress reactivity and inflammation: Lowering stress levels can lead to a reduction in inflammation, pain, and fatigue, common symptoms of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis (MS).
  2. Improved mood and mental clarity: Mind-body techniques can help individuals experience less depression, anxiety, brain fog, and emotional distress.
  3. Enhanced quality of life: By harnessing the mind-body connection, individuals can improve their overall well-being, relationships, sleep quality, and willpower to make healthier choices.

Eileen's book offers a diverse range of 96 techniques, ensuring that individuals can find the approach that resonates best with them. The variety of options caters to different preferences and allows for personalization.

 

Mind-Body Techniques for MS and Beyond:

Eileen acknowledges that her work extends to people with various autoimmune diseases, not limited to rheumatoid arthritis. While specific studies for MS were explored, the broader application of mind-body techniques can benefit anyone dealing with autoimmune conditions. Here are some examples:

  1. Meditation: Research demonstrates that meditation can lead to reduced depression, anxiety, fatigue, and an overall improved quality of life for people with MS.
  2. Guided Visualizations: These can help individuals with MS experience improved mood, a better quality of life, and reduced fatigue.
  3. Mindset Mini Zones: Eileen's podcast includes regular episodes called "mindset mini zones," where she shares quick, effective techniques from her book to help people implement them in their daily lives. These techniques provide practical and easily accessible tools for managing stress and enhancing well-being.

 

Eileen's Outreach and Where to Find Her:

To access Eileen's invaluable resources, you can find her book, "Healing Mindset," on Amazon websites worldwide, available in both paperback and Kindle formats. Visit her website, Phoenix Helix, to download a PDF version of her book and discover a wealth of articles, podcasts, and more. Her podcast, "Phoenix Helix 2," can be found in your favorite podcast app. Eileen's mindset mini zone episodes offer bite-sized doses of wisdom for immediate implementation.

Eileen Laird's journey and the wisdom she shares in her book, "Healing Mindset," remind us of the profound impact of the mind-body connection on our health and well-being, especially for those living with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. By understanding the science behind these techniques and exploring a wide array of options, individuals can regain a sense of control and improve their quality of life, no matter the challenges they face. Eileen's work serves as an inspiring guide for anyone looking to harness the power of their mind to unlock healing and well-being.

 

Listen to the full podcast episode here:
https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/podcasts/the-msing-link/episodes/2148192732 

 

Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider

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