Spondylitis Association of America Forums General Discussion General Message Board for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Related Diseases What helps me feel better....

Jdog- Love your list! I agree with most of the suggestions made by everyone.

John, I have tried the fast and can not do it. Maybe it's a female thing? I get weak and dizzy to the point of almost fainting - have started to black out a few times until I sit down, head down. I have done the apple diet for an extended time. Seemed to help somewhat.

North, I haven't tried extra B6 or carnitine. Maybe I'll give them a try.

I would say that #5 for me has been the hardest and the most pivotal in changing the way I feel everyday. My sweet hubby brings me coffee and "breakfast" in bed (fruit, no prep required) most days then I am up and out. I have to FORCE myself up most days, and I moan and groan as I put on workout clothes. Then I walk the dogs (they are old so we mostly stop and smell the roses) or else get straight on the elliptical machine or stationary bike.

I do not set the world on fire with my vigor when I work out. It's kind of pathetic to watch. But I move, and it really helps for the rest of the day.

I also have found that #5 is a biggie. As others have said, my hubby knows I hurt pretty much all the time. No need to remind us both constantly.

I would also add to the list that I pause several times during the day to reflect on what I've accomplished that day, no matter how minor, to celebrate what I have done: Folded the clean underwear- Hooray! Walk to the mailbox - Awesome! Reloaded the toilet paper roll - Wowee! Corny I know, but I try to focus on what I have done, rather than what I haven't.

I loved #9--I had to learn the same lesson. I kept trying to keep up with friends and their workouts--for years! Finally I found yoga and now HOT YOGA--my new love! I agree, I have enough pain and the weight training just adds to it. Although I know I need some --I do light weights. Walking or the eliptical not running or high impact classes. Now if I could just get my husband to move to Texas (my home state) so I could stay warm year round I would be all set! Thanks for sharing!

That's what I do and then wake up about 12:00 exhausted! I find if I take one before I go to sleep, not as bad in the am..

North- what is carnitine? An OTC herb/vitamin? Forgive me if that's something everyone should know. But if you say it gives good sleep, darnit I'm taking it.