It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas. We received a fresh dusting of snow and everyone’s lights and decorations are up on display for the holidays in my neighborhood. How can we ensure this festive season doesn’t become a burden for us, making us sicker and unable to enjoy the holidays because we’re in a flare.
First, decide what the holiday will look like for you. What traditions do you want to hold onto and which ones would you like to let go of. If you’re Christian probably going to church is an important part of your celebrations. For a Christian, celebrating Jesus’ birth is important. This after all is the reason for the season.
Second, be realistic with your celebrations. Going to endless parties or overconsuming rich food is not something that is in my life any longer. I have let go of getting the perfect gift or buying three or more gifts for each family member. Now, we have set a monetary limit on how much we spend on each family member. We’ve done the same with our friends.
Third, practice self-care. Keep hydrated, get enough sleep, and limit alcohol. We tend to overdo and overindulge during the holidays. This can lead to more pain and disability as well as sleepless nights. Be sure to make some time for yourself every day, even if it’s for fifteen or twenty minutes a day. Read, put on some calming music, journal, or just sit and enjoy your Christmas tree lights.
Fourth, prioritize healthy eating. Focus on eating healthy foods most of the time. Practice the 80/20 rule. Make sure that you also allow yourself to have a good holiday. Just pick and choose what you’ll have.
Last, pace yourself. Plan recovery days into your schedule and don’t try to do too much at once. For instance, if you go out to a family, get together on one day, schedule a quiet day the next day. This will help you recover and feel better and more in control of your health.
By taking these steps, you can rest and have a good holiday. You can also take steps to relax and be. But most importantly, you can enjoy the holidays more and be ready for the new year.
Living With Chronic Illness 