Summary:
On this episode, chronic illness coach Helen Jones opens up about her journey with ankylosing spondylitis. She recounts the emotional impact of being diagnosed after initially believing she had a simple back injury and shares how she came to terms with living with a lifelong condition as a young adult.
Cheryl and Helen dive into the often-overlooked mental challenges of inflammatory arthritis, which can sometimes feel harder to navigate than the physical symptoms. They explore mindset strategies and mental tools that have helped them, including approaches from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
The conversation also highlights the importance of balance, such as steering clear of extreme “healthy” habits—like overly restrictive diets—that can add unnecessary stress. Cheryl and Helen share how they’ve learned to set boundaries and overcome the tendency to be people pleasers.
With insights on managing self-talk and practicing self-compassion, Helen offers a refreshing perspective for anyone navigating a chronic illness. Tune in to discover practical tips for embracing progress over perfection and living well with a chronic condition.
SEE FULL EPISODE SHOW NOTES here: https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2025/02/27/progress-over-perfection-helen-jones-on-thriving-with-ankylosing-spondylitis/
Episode at a glance:
Helen’s Journey with Ankylosing Spondylitis: Helen shares her diagnosis story, the challenges of managing a chronic condition, and how it shaped her coaching approach.
The Power of Balance and Listening to Your Body: Discover how Helen found relief by embracing balance in nutrition, self-care, and daily habits, prioritizing what feels good for her body.
Creative and Compassionate Stress Management: Learn Helen’s unique strategies for managing stress, including reframing thoughts, setting realistic expectations, and practicing self-compassion.
Practical Tools for Pain and Fatigue Relief: Helen discusses her go-to tools, like hot water bottles and ice packs, and explains how listening to her body guides her choices.
Inspiration for Thriving with Chronic Illness: Helen’s mantra, "Progress over perfection," and advice for newly diagnosed individuals provide hope and actionable steps to live a fulfilling life despite limitations.
FOR FULL EPISODE DETAILS INCLUDING A TRANSCRIPT:
Go to the show notes page at: https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/category/podcast/
Medical disclaimer:
All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Episode Sponsors
Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!
**WANT MORE SUPPORT?**
Do you need more support in managing your rheumatic disease (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis or more)?
Rheum to THRIVE is a comprehensive online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details, join the self-paced course or join the waitlist for the support group now at: https://arthritislifeschool.thinkific.com/
**FIND MORE ARTHRITIS TIPS AND LIFE HACKS on Cheryl’s website: https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/
**Join the ARTHRITIS LIFE NEWSLETTER at: https://thoughtful-experimenter-636.ck.page/39da8e3136
**Medical disclaimer: **
All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
**See Links to ALL of Cheryl’s Favorite Products (page contains affiliate links)** https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2020/03/17/my-favorite-arthritis-products/
**STAY CONNECTED ON:
Arthritis Life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arthritis_life_cheryl/
Arthritis Life Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arthritislife
Arthritis Life Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/arthritisLIFE
Cheryl’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/realcc
Arthritis Life Podcast - Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/arthritislifepodcastandsupport