Energy Conservation for the Holidays

 Smell it? It is the new season. It is here.

Fall.

I love this time of year. I breathe much better in cool moist air than in a hot humid environment. I love the beautiful sweaters and jackets of the season. Wools. Nice.

Along with this, there is also a bit of concern about the upcoming holidays. It is a very busy time and a real chore to manage. The goal is to not overdo and become ill. It is about pacing ourselves and maybe even changing our traditions. Remember: adjust and keep moving forward. If you can’t go to midnight Mass because you will be wiped out the next few days, make the decision to not continue that tradition. It is better to have you well and present for the holiday than ill in bed.

So easy to say. So hard to do.

Many of us have the full support of our families but so many people do not. We sometimes are expected to keep all the balls in the air while our health is fading. People get angry – and scared – when there is change. They want everything to stay the same. Ignoring our illness.

As an ill person, it is okay to say “can’t.” Sorry, can’t make that special dinner before caroling this year. Can’t go to several parties this weekend. Can’t host a party. Can’t hike through the woods to fine a tree. Can’t.

Just can’t.

Have fun, party, see friends but make sure to build recovery time into the schedule.

Keep your eye on the goal: Make it to January healthy and ready for the New Year.