The craziness of the Christmas season is upon us. There are extra demands on our time and stresses that can negatively impact our fibromyalgia symptoms. Anything from shopping to baking to entertaining. There are Christmas parties, caroling, and other events that can quickly sap your energy and lay you up for days afterward.

It’s especially important to pace yourself through the season. For example, I took two days to decorate our Christmas tree. Even with my husband’s help, I just don’t have the energy to do it all at once. I wrap one or two gifts and then I have to lay down. I don’t have the energy that I used to for the holidays, and I’m guessing you don’t, either.

I do all my shopping online and my husband does all the cooking. If you choose to shop at a mall, I would encourage you to shop in the mornings, when they’re apt to be less crowded, and ask if the mall has scooters or wheelchairs you can rent. Of course, gift cards are something everyone can use. Or home-baked items ― mmm, I can smell them now.

I do love having my family get together on Christmas, but it’s as exhausting as it is enjoyable and fun. My kids understand when I have to go lay down for an hour or so to recoup. Don’t feel bad if you have to lay down or take a nap in the midst of the festivities; it’s important to take good care of yourself.

Winter is often the most difficult time for so many of us who live with FM. Besides festivities, its many challenges may include depression, fatigue, nausea, and the inability to think clearly or converse as freely as you’d like. All of these things and more make being a part of holiday celebrations much more complex. So many of us feel so isolated and alone throughout the year that we really long to connect with friends and loved ones at this time of year.

So, no matter what your plans are for shopping, baking, celebrating, or parties, please remember to pace yourself and make your health a priority. I would like to take the time to wish all of you a very blessed and enjoyable holiday season!

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Note: Fibromyalgia News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Fibromyalgia News Today, or its parent company, BioNews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to fibromyalgia.