Sleighing Endo: Tips for a Gentle Christmas
Christmas has always been my favourite time of year, even if my endo sometimes reminds me it has other plans. I used to throw myself into the season full throttle, only to crash halfway through. Over time, I’ve learned a few ways to enjoy it without letting pain, fatigue, or stress take over.
Firstly, planning ahead is key. Travel, parties, work... if I can organise my schedule so I’m not overdoing it, life feels so much easier. Part of that planning includes keeping a little survival kit on hand with medications, cramp creams, partially hydrolysed guar gum, and heat packs to navigate anything my body throws at me. My outfits are picked with complete comfort in mind and often flowy enough to handle any bloating. Summer dresses, you are a gift!
I’ve also had to get really honest with myself about what I can and can’t do.
If I need a break during a family gathering, I take it. Even a five-minute couch nap or a warm bath can feel like a miracle. I’ve learnt that saying no doesn’t make me rude, it just means I can be realistic and still enjoy the moments I actually want to be part of.
The food side of things is… well, tricky. Tables are often full of rich meals and fizzy drinks, many of which my body loves to protest. I’ve started making a few endo-friendly dishes or drinks so I know I’ll have something I can actually enjoy, even if it’s just a refreshing glass of water with ice and a lemon wedge! I mean, who doesn’t love being hydrated while watching drunk antics unfold? A small plate of safe options helps me feel included without the payback of pain later. And if I can’t control the menu, I make sure I’ve eaten something beforehand so I’m not tempted to devour every treat in sight!
Mentally, Christmas can be exhausting for a number of reasons. Between the endless “what ifs” and all the planning, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I’ve found that sneaking in quiet moments with a comforting tv show or a cup of tea works wonders. I focus on doing my physio stretches or belly breathing in these moments to navigate any tension that might be building up. Shout out to the Matilda yoga and mindfulness videos I regularly rely on! Sometimes it’s about taking a step back, breathing, and focusing on what truly makes me happy rather than trying to do everything, and it’s okay not to do every single thing! It’s a lesson I’ve learned the hard way, but it’s made all the difference.
Leaning on my support network has been one of the most life-changing aspects of my pain management.
Sharing my needs with family and friends makes gatherings more manageable, and even just a chat with someone who “gets it” lifts my spirits. When people understand my challenges, the adjustments I need, and my plan for flare-ups, I can relax a little more without that panic in the back of my mind. Stressing about embarrassment or exclusion only makes the pain worse, so I focus on my wellbeing first. I’ve also worked out simple ways with my partner to dodge unsolicited advice or awkward conversations about my endo! They are tiny tricks that make everything calmer and make me feel less like a project people are trying to fix!
Christmas isn’t perfect, and my endo doesn’t just disappear because it’s the holidays. But small wins, moments of comfort, and a little planning make a huge difference. This year, and every year, I’m choosing to celebrate in a way that actually works for me, no matter what anyone else thinks
Here’s to a festive season that’s gentle on your body, full of joy, and maybe just a little bit mischievous.
Anna x
