We are slowly preparing for Christmas. This year, I am making our Christmas cards myself because my teenager wasn’t convinced to have his picture taken for our usual card design. I am slowly progressing with them, here is my first batch in gold and red. I listen to music or a podcast while doing them and am really enjoying it. Of course, I take breaks and don’t try to do them all at once, like I would have only two years ago, before the ME/CFS diagnosis.
Tips to Stay Calm During the Festive Season
With the festive season upon us, I wanted to take a moment to share some tips on how to navigate Christmas when you’re managing chronic illness. I have personal experience with the difficulties that this time of year can bring, and I’ve compiled some effective strategies that can assist you in fully enjoying the holiday season while still prioritizing your well-being.
Make Self-Care a Priority.
Amidst the flurry of activities, remember to put your health first. Set realistic expectations and boundaries for yourself.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, remember that self-care isn’t selfish. Instead, it is essential. Listen to your body and honor its needs. Allocate time for rest, stay hydrated, and maintain any medication routines. Establishing a self-care routine can make a world of difference. Taking care of your health is important. Eating well, getting enough rest, and taking medication properly can make a big difference in how you feel.
Also consider creating a personal retreat space where you can take a breather if needed. You can have a cozy space with your favorite book or a quiet room for alone time during the busy events.
Communicate Your Needs
Open, honest communication is key. Please don’t hesitate to talk about your limitations and needs with your friends and family. Open and honest communication can relieve stress and make celebrations more comfortable. Whether it’s dietary restrictions, breaks, or plan adjustments, speak up and let others know your needs. It also allows others to better understand and support you.
Setting boundaries doesn’t mean missing out on the fun. It means ensuring your well-being while participating in the celebrations.
Plan and Pace Yourself
Pacing is key, especially when you have ME/CFS, but it is true for any other chronic illness as well. Instead of trying to do everything at once, break tasks into manageable chunks spread over several days. Plan your schedule wisely, allowing time for rest between activities. For example, I am creating my Christmas cards over the span of one week, doing little things every day, like selecting the paper and other supplies one day, cutting the paper the next day, creating 5-6 cards per day afterward.
Try to get assistance or assign tasks to others if you can. It might mean asking for assistance with meal preparation or engaging others to help decorate. Remember, shared experiences often bring more joy than solitary efforts. And a little assistance can go a long way.
Opt for Meaningful Celebrations
Focus on quality over quantity when it comes to celebrations. Choose activities and events that bring you joy and meaning. Whether it’s a small gathering with loved ones or participating in a cherished tradition, prioritize what matters most to you.
And don’t feel pressured to attend every event or party. Instead, focus on the celebrations that truly matter to you, allowing you to fully engage and enjoy the moment.
Embrace Adaptability
Flexibility is crucial when you are chronically ill. Be open to altering plans if your health requires it. Sometimes, unexpected changes can lead to surprisingly enjoyable moments. Embrace the spirit of the season by being adaptable to different circumstances. This not only reduces stress but also allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday experience.
Remember, it’s okay to say no or opt for a quieter celebration. Your well-being matters the most, and prioritizing it doesn’t diminish the holiday spirit—it enhances it.
Book Recommendation
If you want to keep track of your self-routine, check out my book “Self Care: Planner for 60 Days in a Traveler’s Notebook“! I designed it to snugly fit a Traveler’s Notebook, but it also looks good on its own. Track your daily habits and mood with an adorable cat illustration in a bubble bath over a span of 60 days. Moreover, you will be provided with a enough space to document your daily inspirations, monitor your water consumption, establish and accomplish daily objectives, and express gratitude through meaningful reflections. You can find the journal here on Amazon (Affiliate-Link!)
