Lauren is a passionate advocate for chronic illness awareness who shares her journey to highlight the challenges faced during the holiday season. Living with gastroparesis, she navigates the joys and difficulties of festive traditions, especially regarding food. In this heartfelt reflection, Lauren offers insights on finding joy and meaning during the holidays while prioritizing her health and well-being.
Continue reading to learn more about Lauren's journey.
Finding Joy Beyond the Dinner Table
Some of the biggest challenges I face during the holiday season revolve around food. I have gastroparesis, so big meals and many traditional holiday dishes aren’t an option for me. I’ve even had feeding tubes in the past during the holidays, which wasn’t easy.
While I may not be able to eat with everyone, I still sit at the table and engage in conversations. It’s a way for me to stay connected, even if I’m not eating. I also remind myself that my ability to eat—or not eat—has nothing to do with my value as a person. It’s beyond my control, and I’m doing my best. That’s what truly matters.
Pacing Myself for Holiday Activities
The holiday season can feel overwhelming with so much going on, so I’ve learned to pace myself and plan ahead. I try to spread out activities over several days instead of cramming everything into one.
Giving myself grace is essential. Sometimes, I modify activities so I can still participate in a way that feels manageable. I also prepare mentally for moments when everything might feel like too much. Having a plan, giving myself permission to rest, and using distractions when needed all help me get through the busier days.
Prioritizing Self-Care
I’ll be honest—prioritizing self-care isn’t always easy for me. But during the holidays, I make an extra effort to set aside time for myself.
At the end of each day, I stick to my bedtime routine, which includes journaling and reading. These simple habits help me unwind and recharge. Occasionally, I’ll treat myself to a “spa night” with a relaxing bath or skincare session. Doing things I love, even in small ways, helps me feel more grounded during the busy season.
Educating Others About My Chronic Illness
The holidays often bring opportunities to educate others about chronic illness. Many people don’t fully understand what it’s like, or they’ve been misinformed.
I’ve found that sharing my experiences helps others see the realities of living with a chronic condition. That said, I also remind myself that it’s okay to step back if those conversations become too much. My energy and peace are priorities.
Showing Myself Kindness
Above all, I remind myself to be kind to myself. The holidays can bring up feelings of guilt or frustration when I can’t do everything I want to, but I try not to be too hard on myself.
Taking it easy when I can and planning ahead have been game-changers for me. I focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones and creating memories in ways that work for me.
The holidays may look a little different for me because of my chronic illness, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be meaningful. I’ve learned to embrace the moments that matter most, even if they’re small, and to remind myself that I’m doing my best—and that’s enough.
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