The leadup to Christmas and the new year continues.

As the festive season approaches, we can be dealing with a myriad of feelings – overwhelm, disappointment, anxiety and more.

The holiday period can sometimes take us out of our comfort zone with gatherings fuelling fatigue, the fear of missing out, the feeling of needing to keep up with it all and the utter depletion that comes from this.

In order to avoid falling into this slump, it is worthwhile planning in advance and taking steps to self care.

1. Manage expectations

This time of year can be frantic with plans and various engagements stealing everyone’s attention. It can also raise expectations from the perspective of what Christmas or the festive season should be or once was when we were younger. Appreciating that what this time of year looks like can change over the years, particularly when dealing with fatigue can assist in moderating our expectations and reducing the chances of disappointment.

2. Respect your needs

Putting on an act and/or pretending you are fine can be draining from many points of view. Be kind to yourself, take breaks if required, ask for help and do not feel obliged to push yourself beyond your limit. Communicating with family and friends and being vulnerable that you may not be yourself on the day is okay.

3. Keep up the basics

Maintaining stable blood sugar levels by eating throughout the day, remaining hydrated and moderating your nervous system are all micro ways we can increase our chances of having the best energy day possible. Tap into 4-7-8 breathing, alternate nostril breathing, meditation, vagus nerve stimulation, restorative yoga, emotional freedom technique and anything else you find nourishing in order to deal with the stress that comes along with this period.

4. Don’t beat yourself up for indulging

You may well be focussing on reducing or eliminating inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, sugar and others, which can be difficult to do in large gatherings. Having an occasional treat at this time of year will not ruin your dedication or derail your efforts. This obviously does not apply if you have diagnosed allergies or intolerances. If you are on a strict dietary regime, plan in advance to have your food accessible on the day so you are not left hungry!

5. Reach out

Remember, you are not alone. You may not have a large family or social circle around you at the moment, and if that is you, reach out to the CFS and fibromyalgia community, including me! Having someone who understands what you are going through can go a long way to make you feel less alone and more connected.

If you celebrate Christmas, have yourself a very Merry Christmas and I will be in touch with you all again in the new year.

You can find other ME/CFS related blogs here.