In the same way that we take time during the holidays to let others know that we care about them, it is just as important to direct some tender loving care toward yourself. You may be angry with your body for betraying you with all of these disruptive digestive symptoms. All the more reason to take some time to re-connect with how special you are.
Daily Self Time
Often when we most need stress management, we are too stressed to carve out the time for it. Through this busy time, don’t lose sight of the need to nurture your own body and mind. Here are some ways to do just that:
Shop for Yourself
As you are shopping for gifts for other people, leave space in your budget to buy the things that you really need.
- Buy a holiday outfit. You might not feel well, so do your best to look well -- it may lift your mood.
- Buy comfortable lounging clothes. If your abdomen is in pain or feels bloated due to gas, treat yourself to some nice-looking, but loose-fitting comfortable outfits. Although sometimes it is a nice treat to lounge about in pajamas, doing it on a regular basis can be depressing and reinforce a negative label of yourself as a sick person.
Pamper Yourself
In an effort to counteract the negative sensations that a body with IBS produces, spend some time (and money, as your budget allows) to enjoy some positive physical sensations.
- Hot bath
- Aromatherapy (candles, oils)
- Fragrant body lotion
- Massage
- Manicure, pedicure
- Facial
- Physical affection (snuggle up with a loved one, or hug a child)
Further Reading:
IBS Home Page
