Expert Insights – Physical Activity

04:12 The definition of physical activity and exercise

06:24 How the body works

08:08 Myokines

10:00 Professor Robert Motl

15:13 Disease modifying intervention

17:04 Resistance training and myokine production

17:45 Aerobic training and MS

20:32 Stretching and its benefits

23:02 Physical activity and improving MS symptoms 

24:35 Overcoming MS’s physical activity recommendations

28:33 Dr Gretchen Hawley’s 6 out of 10

31:26 Introduction to Lyndsey Housden

38:51 Physical activity practice

45:03 Important exercises for people living with Primary Progressive MS

48:59 Aids for balance training 

50:53 How much is too much?

55:16 Exercises for managing fatigue and spasticity

57:17 Assistive devices for supporting exercising 

58:31 Free, at-home exercise programmes

59:58 Choosing a physiotherapist

1:02:20 What is HIIT?

1:08:51 Exercise and mental health

1:18:00 Upcoming events at Overcoming MS

Heather O’Neil

Heather is a Clinical Social Worker and has been working with individuals and couples in private practice and other organisations for the past 27 years. She specialises in treating trauma, coping with chronic illness and anxiety disorders.

She was diagnosed with MS in 2020 and found the Overcoming MS program very shortly into her diagnosis. It has given her a tremendous amount of agency over her own health and has allowed her to manage her anxiety related to this illness. Overall, Heather feels healthier and more connected to her body.

Heather lives in Denver, Colorado in the U.S. and enjoys spending time with family and friends.  She loves skiing, hiking and travelling.  When not out adventuring she can be found curled up with a good book. Heather is married and has two young adult children and a dog.

Lyndsey Housden

Lyndsey has a background spanning health and wellbeing coaching, academic coaching and teaching in the creative arts and design. After being diagnosed with MS in 2010, whilst living in the Netherlands, she discovered the Overcoming MS Program, which inspired her to pivot her work toward coaching and supporting others on their own health and wellbeing journeys.

Lyndsey brings a holistic approach to helping others thrive. As a qualified health and wellbeing coach and academic coach, Lyndsey works with individuals and groups, to support personal growth, resilience, and sustainable wellbeing – both in life and learning.

Lyndsey teaches accessible yoga, with a focus on inclusivity and adapting movement to suit all bodies. Lyndsey is also an artist and creative producer, which continues to shape her approach, encouraging creativity, connection, and empowerment in every aspect of her work.