(I was reading The National Pain Foundation’s website this week, and liked this article.  I’ve modified it for you).

How did you do during this holiday season??

Holidays can magnify feelings of happiness, joy, and hope, making it easier to ignore your pain.  Visiting loved ones can increase your feelings of being supported and loved.  The converse can be true as well.  Sadness, loneliness, guilt, frustration, and pain may seem more intense during a time when it seems like everyone else is celebrating. This time of year may heighten your sense of isolation, especially if you’re unable to get out of the house and socialize.  During these moments, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re not alone — there are millions of other people with pain who understand what you’re feeling.

Here are some good tips you can use anytime:

Simplify and prioritize — Choose activities that are meaningful to you and let go of those that you do only because you feel obligated.

Create reasonable expectations — Doing too much often causes setbacks, which can lead to greater pain and depression.

Take time to care for yourself — Getting the right amount of sleep, eating healthy meals, doing your physical therapy exercises or gentle physical activity, practicing relaxation techniques (eg, visualization and deep breathing) and avoiding too much alcohol.  These can all help you feel better, so you can enjoy those activities you choose to engage in.

Accept what you are unable to change — acceptance may allow you to take better care of yourself in that you’re more aware of your limitations and are less likely to exceed them. Acceptance also means you’re looking forward to what you can do versus looking back at what you’ve lost.

Give yourself credit — Others often don’t realize what an effort you’ve made to participate in a family event, so give yourself credit for doing the best you can with the body you have.

Reach out to others — Talk with a neighbor you usually don’t see.  Post or reply to a message on a pain organization chat room.  These can help you feel less isolated.

Do something for others — You have a lot to give. Volunteering to help others and giving of yourself will remind you of the gifts you have to share. You can make a difference in the lives of others.

Remember those loved ones who have helped you along your journey — the holidays are stressful for caregivers and family members too. Take a moment to thank them for all of their efforts on your behalf or even for simply caring.

Take care, and my hopes to you for a good 2007!