The Science
The Science Behind The MS Stage
After spending months creating The MS Stage and then testing it with women around the world, I began to witness the impact it was having on them and was in awe. That is when I knew without a shadow of a doubt that I definitely had something. I had known it in my heart and in my visions all along, but to see it come to life with real women was the true validation that this work works.
So I began to research if in fact there was science behind what I was doing and lo and behold there was and continues to be. I have included a bunch of great articles below that show different studies in various forms and/or research involving mindfulness and MS, meditation and MS, music and dance with MS, and more.
You can check them out below. I welcome you to book a Discovery Call if you would like to discuss further or have any questions.
Mindfulness In Motion for People with Multiple Sclerosis
This study was an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention that used yoga movement, mindfulness meditation, and relaxing music. It showed that the mental health of individuals improved, “specifically anxiety, depression, and positive affect.” Fatigue and physical function also improved.
MS Ard Journal: The Effects of a 10–week multi-modal dance and art intervention program leading to a public performance in people with Multiple Sclerosis
I loved this one because the people in this study also performed on stage sharing their MS perspectives through art and dance, which is similar in mindset to what we do here.
https://www.msard-journal.com/article/S2211-0348(20)30332-1/fulltext
Study Finds That Online Meditation Course Reduces MS Symptoms and Enhances Well-being
The title of this article says it all. At The MS Stage, I guide you through meditations with music as you do deep visualizations to see your MS and your symptoms in a new light. The proof is in the pudding that these meditations have helped students ease their symptoms.
“Kicking and Screaming” or “Gracefully Conceding”: Creative Nonfiction Stories of Aging with Multiple Sclerosis
This article outlines a fascinating abstract on storytelling and creating narrative to maintain a sense of self and why that is important for people aging with MS. At The MS Stage, we use a version of storytelling to recognize where we are in the present moment with our symptoms and MS in a mindful way.
Active Therapies Keep MS Patients Doing What They Love
This article discusses the importance of movement and physical activities and how doctors use activities that people “used to love to do” as treatment for MS patients.
https://www.seattletimes.com/sponsored/active-therapies-keep-ms-patients-doing-what-they-love/
Creative Healing: How creative pursuits can help ease symptoms of MS.
We call The MS Stage Creative Healing for MS for a reason! This article confirms that being creative in many capacities can help ease symptoms of MS whether it’s pain, mindset, or self-esteem by redirecting a person’s focus to something that feels good creatively and that they enjoy.
Creative Healing: The Restorative Power of Art, Music, and Drama
This article on the creative healing of art, music, and drama therapy for patients of various illnesses supports the notion that the principles and tools of The MS Stage align with tapping into healing on a deeper level and emphasizes the power of working with a group.
https://www.michigandaily.com/arts/creative-healing-restorative-power-art-music-and-drama/
Ballroom Dance for persons with Multiple Sclerosis: A pilot feasibility study.
Even though we don’t practice ballroom dancing at The MS Stage, this 6-week study showed the improvements in quality of life and cognitive function from 2 hours a week of ballroom or social dance over the course of 6 weeks. What fascinated me the most was the similarities of how much time was being devoted per week and for how many weeks to dance and movement with other people - exactly how much time we spend each week at The MS Stage.
Music and the Vagus Nerve: How Music Affects the Nervous System and Mental Health
This article explains how music has a positive impact on the vagus nerve, and also brain health and the nervous system. I find music to be incredibly important and this article reinforces that by discussing how music has healing powers. That is why I use it in my program.
Learn more about The MS Stage!
The MS Stage is a 12-week guided experience to claim your “hero’s journey” with MS. Our signature program includes weekly Zoom calls, bonus content, additional resources, and access to our community of women who are also taking control of their MS journey alongside you. We can’t wait to have you join us inside The MS Stage - click the button below to learn more!