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Continuing Education

Battle the emotional aspects of arthritis by enriching your mind. When you have arthritis, it can become the focal point of your life. Your entire day can be spent deciding how to move, eat and run errands based on your pain level and fatigue.

It’s important when you have a chronic illness to have some time that isn’t focused on the disease. An active mind fights depression and makes your days more exciting and interesting.

A good way to kick your brain in gear is to take an adult education class. These classes exercise your mind (and sometimes your body) and expand your interests outside yourself and your disease. You can be creative, learn about something new that interests you and meet new people.

During your 10-minute meditation, think about subjects that interest you. Don’t limit yourself. It may be doing a craft or learning about the Civil War. You could take an Asian cooking class or join a book club.

Make a list of things you’d like to do and then find classes that fit your schedule. Check out your local community center, university or hospital to find classes. Don’t forget to peruse the newspaper. It is full of great ideas!