‘Tis the season to… panic about how on earth you’re going to manage Christmas this year while living with chronic pain. There’s the prep to think about, the wrapping, the decorating, the cooking, the slapping a smile on your face and pretending you’re fine so you don’t bring everyone else down.
This list of things you could be worried about is probably as long as Santa’s Nice List, but as a chronic pain Christmas pro, I want to let you know that you can absolutely enjoy the festivities despite your condition.
Here’s how to handle it…
Managing Chronic Pain at Christmas
Plan Ahead
I know I’m stating the obvious here, but Christmas is busy, busy, busy. The best thing that you can do to keep stress to a minimum and chronic pain symptoms under control is to plan everything in advance where possible.
If you’re cooking on Christmas Day, start prepping a few days before so you can do things in small doses without feeling the need to rush.
If you’re heading to a festive get-together on Christmas Eve, make time during the day to rest so you can enjoy your evening as much as possible.
Planning your activities and days in advance means you’re not panicking about how to accommodate your condition at the last minute.
Pace Yourself
I know you want to but resist the urge to squeeze everything and the kitchen sink into your few days of Christmas fun.
Overcommitting can leave you feeling stressed, anxious, exhausted and, worst of all, in pain. Pick and choose your activities wisely so you can really enjoy them while they’re happening. If you love a short walk on Christmas morning but aren’t keen on big family get-togethers, prioritise your walk.
Don’t feel pressured to be here, there and everywhere. This is your Christmas as much as anyone else’s and you deserve to enjoy it.
Stick to Your Routine
I’m well aware that routines tend to go out the window over Christmas. A handful of Celebrations and a bucks fizz for breakfast, turkey sandwiches at all hours, late nights and early mornings – it all goes to pot in the best way.
But there are a few things you should try your best to keep the same to help manage your chronic pain symptoms.
If you use therapies like BEMER, ensure this remains a steadfast part of your daily routine. Try to take medications or supplements at the same time each day and try your best to stick to your established sleep schedule.
Doing so will ensure you’re pulling out all the stops to keep your symptoms under control so you can really enjoy Christmas in the way you deserve.
Chronic Pain Support with Rolling with the Glen
While Christmas may involve a little more planning and thought for us than it does for most, that certainly doesn’t take the joy out of it.
Make the memories, soak up the time spent with loved ones, drink the bucks fizz – your chronic pain will be part of your Christmas, but I guarantee it’s the fun you’ll have that you’ll remember the most.
If you need support with managing your chronic pain, please get in touch.