Surviving the holiday season with chronic pain and chronic illness: 7 tips from a DC therapist.
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Create new boundaries.
Give yourself permission to sit out activities that you don't love so you have the energy available to enjoy the ones you do love (without a flare!). This doesn't have to be a permanent boundary-just for this year.
Skip social media.
Take a break from social media during the holidays. Although social media is not reality, pictures of "perfect" able bodied friends and family may create unnecessary stress and sadness. Come back to your scrolling after the holiday!
Schedule in breaks.
Schedule in self care breaks like stretching, naps, reading, watching a movie or funny television show, surfing the web, taking a walk or going to your favorite coffee shop. Make time to do some gentle restorative yoga during your travels.
Gratitude practice.
Hold space for dialectics-two opposites can both be true and the same time. Chronic pain and illness is emotionally/physically draining AND you can acknowledge gratitude for areas of your life that are going well, like medications or treatments that help you thrive, a home that keeps you warm and safe or loved ones who continue to support you.
Give back.
Volunteer virtually by ordering food to be delivered to local hospital staff or fulfill a teacher's wish list online. Order toys for local kiddos in need and ship it to the charity warehouse. Get creative with giving that doesn't require an in person element!
Put life on pause.
Instead of traveling for the holidays, do you need a staycation at home? Give yourself permission to break your traditions and fill your cup back up over the holiday. Time off from work or school is still your time to recharge and rest so you enter the new year as your best self.
Practice self compassion.
If you are struggling to get into the holiday spirit, don't beat yourself up. You may be having a flare up or a difficult year health wise. You are not a grinch-you are grieving. Treat yourself like you would a best friend or loved one, with compassion, respect and understanding.
Holiday activities that are low impact for chronic illness and chronic pain in Washington, DC.
DINNER & A SHOW IN WASHINGTON, DC
Queen’s English Outdoor Dining
and more warm dining options!
A Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theater
Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker
MOVE YOUR BODY and get mindful WITH PILATES AND YOGA IN DC
let your creativity flow WITH ART CLASSES IN WASHINGTON DC
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