The holidays are brimming over with stress and added challenges to daily life - weather, traffic, parties. I marvel at those passing souls who seem to have it all together. They've put up all their decorations, pre-ordered their Christmas cards, spend hours baking, have already finished their shopping and plan or attend a holiday party every week.
Bah, humbug.
I slow down to a crawl this time of year, almost immobilized by the stress of it all and the dietary implications of facing countless social settings where one is expected to nibble on the most inopportune foods with a pleasant smile on her face.
I usually end up with a flare this time of year. Each year, I learn more about myself and my disease, which is why this year I have instituted a new plan of approach:
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| Yes, that is the world's tiniest tree. You're welcome! :) |
Doesn't sound like the next holiday blockbuster chorus, does it?
This year, I have enormous pressure from seemingly all facets of life. I simply can't do it all, so instead I am throwing out the Christmas card tradition to a 100+ friends and family and only sending a dozen or so to the close circle of friends/family. I'm not putting up a tree, opting to do festive spotty decorations without taking hours of time and clutter. I'm shopping as much as possible online. I'm bringing my own food or eating before I go out.
'Tis the season to conquer. To withstand. To alternate weeks of massages and acupuncture, of restorative yoga, and whatever warm fuzzy fills your heart - volunteering at a food bank, helping out a neighbor in need or simply being the healthiest "you" possible.
How are you surviving the holidays? Share your tips in the comments section!
Crohnies unite!