Managing Stress Around the Holiday
Stress can be a major trigger for neuropathy. Each year I feel pressure to do special things, to shop, cook, decorate, visit and make nice with people I hardly even know. Each year as my neuropathy progresses my desire to do these things gets less and less.
This year with Covid-19 we have a wonderful opportunity to change traditions and do things differently - hopefully with less pressure and stress. This year for example, I've had my husband put up the Christmas tree with lights as normal. But that is all - the lights are the part that makes me feel happiest and so, we have a tree with just lights, AND I LOVE IT!
What causes you stress around the holiday season?
- Going to the stores to shop (of course we'd say that!)
- Some people feel loneliest when in a room full of people, so invitations are stressful
- Feeling like I'm going to be missing out/deprived of the season's you
- and ohhh... gaining weight!
- Christmas cards are a dying tradition. Write some to those people you care most about. It will make them smile and you feel good.
- Adopt a family in need
- Make a donation to a favorite charity
- Send a care package to someone who you know is alone or lonely
- Take a home made meal or cookies to someone who can't easily cook
- Set up an online get-together or an on-line game
You can also do something special for yourself. Plan a trip (for the future), take a bath, have a 'me' day, or learn something new.
Have a low stress holiday, your nerves will thank you.
Linda