For the chronically ill—which includes those who suffer from chronic pain—the holidays can feel like a no-win situation. If we participate at all, there's likely to be payback later. On the other hand, if we don’t participate, we'll feel isolated and risk other people not understanding why we haven't joined in the festivities. I encounter this no-win dilemma at Thanksgiving, which is the only winter holiday that my husband and I celebrate with other people. We host a Thanksgiving dinner. (I use "we” loosely here; my husband does most of the work.) My son and his family come; my husband’s brother and sister-in-law come; a few friends come. Here’s my no-win dilemma: On the one hand, I want to be part of the festivities from beginning to end, but if I do that, I’ll land in bed for days. On the other hand, if I stay in the bedroom most of the time, I hit the emotional skids. My solution? I compromise, even though that compromise results in several days of payback.
Here are four suggestions for surviving the holiday season—from Thanksgiving to New Year’s. . . .
-------------------- KarlaL Posts: 694 | From New Lebanon, NY | Registered: Dec 2010
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Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673
posted
- Good points.
Speaking as someone who has spent so many holidays alone, for matters of necessity, though, if someone must do that . . . take special care in how to think about it and also creating your own little rituals, making sure you have the foods you desire, leave energy to shower and a clean outfit to don. Dress up, to some degree.
Entertainment that is special - whether a movie or travel DVD or book (if one is lucky enough to be able to read).
The kinds of sensory issues and energy issues are still vital to "honor" in how we take care of ourselves and, sadly,
we don't get holidays off for good behavior either in the social department or with food choices, although there are so many fabulous foods that can be prepared in a most healthful manner and still be delicious.
It's a little late to start cooking it all now - hopefully some things are waiting in the wings. I just took out a half turkey breast from freezer -- cooked it last week. Broth, too. Cranberries as well, enough for, well, forever.
Wild rice cooked a couple days ago ready as the base for my gluten free "dressing" when I add onions, sage and other herbs. And a jar of chestnuts -- the top splurge for my holiday dressing.
Still, just approach it realistically. Forget fairy tales here. What / how can you create or gather - or have delivered - the food that you need for your soul to celebrate.
Don't even try to cram all favorite foods into one day or one meal. We have an entire season to experience a range of full flavors.
So, I sure hope everyone can be with loved ones but if that is not possible for either logistical reasons or practical matters of the sensory requirements, I do find focusing on gratitude to help. -
Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007
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