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In this issue:
Surviving the Holidays
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Surviving the Holidays
I don't often write about "the holidays", partly because I realize that some people are celebrating, some are not. But everyone has those times when they have to "survive" times of changed schedules and different food.
Perhaps more than ever, 2018 has been a year full of promises to migraine sufferers. But reality is setting in again - there is no magic cure for everyone. And there are challenges of schedules, finances, and complex health conditions that have not been solved by new research or a government program - and won't be in the near future.
So what's the bottom line? The decisions that you and I make - every day - those are the ones that will make the most difference. We don't wait for the next pill to hit the market - we take action now.
So here are just a few tips to make your holidays - or any days with chaotic schedules - just a little better.- Sleep: Easier said than done? Sure. But when you can,
keep your sleep schedule regular, and get a good night's sleep before and after you need to stay up late. As much as possible, go to bed and get up at the same time you always do. See Back to Sleep
- Beware Leftovers: Leftovers may trigger migraine in some, so be careful if you're eating food that's been sitting in the fridge for a few days. For specific suggestions, see Warning: Leftovers may Trigger Migraine Attacks
- Prioritize: Be realistic. You may have amazing energy and weeks with no symptoms - but if not, what should you prioritize? If you can't get it all done, what's most important? If you can't go to every party, which one will you try to make it to?
- Beware "One Idea Days": Are you pinning all your hopes on one afternoon, one big meal, one party? And you'll be devastated if it's ruined? Beware! Read
more here: Those One-Idea Days
- Sugar: Sugar can be a migraineur's worst enemy. Watch out for sugar spikes - juices, cookies - if you must consume sugar or artificial sweeteners (personally, I'd avoid those for sure!), do it with a meal. Snack on something not so sweet. See Sugar and Migraines?, and go deeper with some holiday reading: The Migraine Miracle
- Water: Good old H2O, Adam's ale - it's another way to stay healthy and offset changes in diet over the holidays. Drink lots of it. That's it.
- Migraine Tactical Prep: You're going out tonight - is there medication you should bring? Bottled water for the car? A small healthy snack? If you're bringing something to the potluck, is it something healthy you can eat? If a migraine hits, what
will you do? Plan ahead, and enjoy your evening.
- Reflect on what is important: What do you consider to be most important this season? Maybe you're focusing on something shallow - or simply on yourself. Re-evaluate, and find ways to enjoy that thing. Give, instead of wishing to get. And be thankful - and thank people. You may not be able to control the pain, but maybe you can make another life a little brighter.
Celebrating or not, I'm wishing you a healthy month. May you find new ways to take back just a little control. And whatever 2019 brings, let's take one small step to fight back.
Thanks for reading! Remember, if you have feedback or ideas for future issues, visit the HeadWay MailRoom. Your password is nomoache.
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