In Chill Chat, Bustle sits down with celebs to discuss all things wellness, from their favorite skincare products to tips for a good night's sleep . Here, Jamie-Lynn Sigler talks about her health journey, the relaxation reality shows she watches, and her go-to coffee recipe.
Jamie-Lynn Sigler doesn't know who she would be without her multiple sclerosis diagnosis. “It’s weird to be grateful for something like this, but that’s just me,” she said, sitting on the couch in the Park Suite at the New York EDITION hotel. “I don’t know if I’m going to be on this path of learning about myself because of it.”
The actor, known for "The Sopranos" and "Entourage," was diagnosed with the disease at age 20, at the height of her career. But she kept the story secret for nearly 15 years before going public. "Not only did this allow me to begin the next phase and journey of my RMS and self-reflection, but it also allowed me to realize and become part of a tight-knit and beautiful group of supportive and caring people in the MS community." Now, she's taking back herself The Power: The actor teamed up with Novartis to create a three-step guide for dealing with RMS, the relapsing form of multiple sclerosis.
While MS affects many aspects of Sigler's life, including her self-care routine, it also makes her more in tune with her body. "I'm a self-care beast," she said. “RMS made it hyper-focused and prioritized for me.”
Below, Siegler talks to Buster about her morning ritual, her go-to treat and the best health advice she's ever received.
How does RMS impact your self-care routine?
When I give myself 30 to 40 minutes a day to do the things I want to do, my family knows I'm a better mom, wife, and person to be around. Many of these involve cold soaking. I feel called to do this every day and I know it's something my body craves and my mind wants.
“I’ve always known that my purpose every time I show up is to do my best, and that’s enough for me.”
I stretch every day, usually before bed, to actively release a lot of the day's stress. I can do it while watching TV, so it doesn’t feel as strenuous. Meditation has been a lifesaver for me too. I would sit down, close my eyes, and say this mantra: "This is where I am today." In that acceptance, I feel like I've been given a lot of grace because I'm just allowing it to happen.
What is your morning routine like?
I send the kids out to get ready for school, so I prepare snacks, lunch, and breakfast before they head out the door. Then, before I do anything else, I do a cold jump and meditate.
What do you usually have for breakfast? Are you a coffee or tea lover?
I'm a coffee person. My friend taught me this incredible frozen coffee pod recipe. So I pour [iced coffee]; I'll add a little hazelnut milk, a little whipped cream and an ounce of maple syrup and mix it over ice. Tastes like dessert. This is my morning meal and then I have eggs and avocado.
I know you said you go to Pilates sometimes. Do you have any other exercises?
I do physical therapy and some exercises every day—sometimes I even do them while sitting in a restaurant or in my car. I try to do some kind of physical activity every day. No matter where my RMS is, I won't force it, but I will make sure I get the most out of it.
What's your favorite way to de-stress after a long day?
Watching Bravo now. Usually any of the Real Housewives franchises or Summer House , Winter House or Southern Charm .
I used to really love Bachelor in Paradise and stuff like that, but then Bravo took over my life. But I will do "Love is Blind."
What’s the best health advice you’ve ever received?
Always give it your all. I don’t push myself to achieve any specific goals. I always knew my purpose every time I showed up was to do my best, and that was enough for me.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
