The festive season is a magical time filled with joy, love, and celebration. But for those living with a chronic illness, it can also be physically and emotionally taxing. The packed social calendar, financial pressure, and an expectation to be cheerful can feel overwhelming when your body is already having to deal with the daily challenges that chronic conditions bring. Here are some tips to help you navigate the holidays whilst prioritising your health and well-being.

1. Set boundaries early – communicate with your friends and family about what you can and cannot do. Let them know how your condition impacts your energy and availability.
   • You might want to plan shorter visits, especially if spending all day somewhere feels too much, a limited timeframe might work better for you.
   • You can say no without feeling guilty – declining invitations or skipping certain traditions doesn’t mean you’re ruining things, you’re just protecting your health.
2. Prioritise rest – the holidays are exhausting for pretty much everyone regardless of health issues.
   • Schedule downtime when needed.
   • Listen to your body – if you need to leave early or skip something completely then do that. Your body knows what it needs and should be respected!
   • Create a cosy retreat – somewhere where you can decompress where needed. I like to hide under fluffy blankets and put on my galaxy projector light and just *breathe*
3. Simplify your holiday plans to avoid unnecessary stress.
   • Delegate tasks – let other people help you with cooking, cleaning and shopping.
   • Embrace convenience – convenient options exist for a reason and they are there to be used! Do your shopping online, grab some microwave meals, scale back the festive decor – whatever works for you.
   • Prioritise your favourite traditions – focus on the things that bring you most joy. For me that’s a candle-lit carol service and trying to see at least some cool Christmas lights!
4. Stay warm and comfortable – winter weather can exacerbate symptoms for some people so take steps to stay cosy:
   • Layer up – wear comfortable, warm clothing, especially if travelling.
   • Heat therapy – use heated blankets/heat-pads or warm baths to soothe pain.
   • Hydrate – don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids.
5. Prepare for social interactions – family gatherings can be overwhelming places, especially if you’re trying to manage symptoms.
   • Plan conversation boundaries – be ready with a response if someone asks you intrusive questions about your health that you don’t want to answer (it’s okay to tell people you don’t want to talk about things!)
   • Bring your essentials – medications, snacks, TENS machine, headphones… anything you might need!
   • Take breaks – excuse yourself for some time to wind down if needed.
6. Mind your mental health – the holidays can be emotionally draining, especially if you’re unable to participate fully due to illness.
   • Practice self-compassion – remind yourself that it’s okay to have limitations and that you’re doing your best.
   • Stay connected – if you can’t physically go to gatherings, find ways to connect virtually if you can.
   • Seek support – reach out to any mental health professionals involved in your care if needed, speak to your GP, family or friends to share how you’re feeling.
7. Have a backup plan – chronic illness is unpredictable at the best of times! Create contingency plans for if things flare up.
   • Keep your activities as flexible as possible – if you don’t need to book things, don’t book them (I still haven’t been able to book the activity my sister planned for my Christmas present last year as I can’t reliably manage plans) and let loved ones know that plans might have to change if you’re not well enough.
   • Stock up – make sure you have enough medication for whilst pharmacies are closed/post might take longer, keep easy meals/snacks in, and any other essentials you might need.
8. Celebrate in your own way – sometimes, the best way to celebrate Christmas is to tailor it to your own needs.
   • Host a quiet celebration (if you’re well enough) – create a calm space with a few loved ones, that way you can tell them to leave when needed and be in your own space which might be more comfortable.
   • Focus on small joys – the hot chocolate, watching Christmas films, watching twinkling Christmas tree lights.
   • Remember the spirit of the season isn’t about doing everything, it’s about finding moments of peace and connection.

Christmas with a chronic illness can look different, but it can still be meaningful and joyful for you and those close to you. It can still be a time of cosy comfort and love, just on your terms – just remember to look after yourself and prioritise your boundaries as well as turning to others for support when needed!

All my love,

Anna x