It’s Thanksgiving, and guess who’s hosting this year? Why, you of course! On one hand, seeing family and friends will be the cherry on top of a perfect year! On the other, your chronic pain symptoms are undoubtedly going to get in the way of hosting this event.
You may have mixed feelings about hosting this year’s Thanksgiving festivities (completely understandable), but do not panic! The pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are here to help. Consider these tips for hosting your Thanksgiving meal or party this year, without pain.
1. Plan Ahead
Rushing at the very last minute to finish holiday preparations will, more than likely, exacerbate your chronic pain symptoms. Avoid this completely by setting party items up a few days in advance. Write down your plans and/or the food that needs to be cooked to help you stay on track. It’s okay to make pies and side dishes a night or two before the feast (they’re still going to taste fresh, we promise!). Moreover, making food shouldn’t be a one-man job; have immediate family members help you! The last thing anyone wants to see is you pulling your hair out from the stress of it all. Plan ahead and ask for help!
2. Don’t Go All Out
Seriously. Thanksgiving is a time to remember what you’re thankful for and a time to be with the ones you love. Do not overwhelm yourself or feel like you have to go “all out” to make people happy. Keep the meal simple! If you’re worried about not providing an assortment, tell each party guest to bring a food item (make it fun by requesting family-recipes only!). That way, your Thanksgiving table will be fully equipped with the fundamental food items and a fun variety!
3. Speak Up If You’re Feeling Pain
They are your family and friends for a reason—they know what you are and are not capable of and can help if things get tough. Delegate co-hosting jobs prior to the event. When you start to feel pain and need time to rest, have the co-host(s) take-over. This will help things stay on track and keep everyone happy.
4. Relax And Remember To Breathe
Remember to breathe. Hosting probably isn’t your idea of fun, we know, but try to remember what this holiday means for you and your loved ones. Stay humble and keep in mind not everyone is fortunate to have food on the table or people to share it with. Be in the moment, have fun and relax when you need to! Also, try to get a nice, full eight hours of sleep the night before. This will help you stay energized and up-beat the day of the event.
Put yourself and your well-being first. That may seem selfish, but you shouldn’t have to compromise your health and happiness for something as frivolous as cranberry sauce and/or the “perfect” placemats. Enjoy this time of year, and from all of us at The Southwest Spine and Pain Center, Happy Thanksgiving!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With three locations and growing, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
©Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 2014
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