Beat the Holiday Stress Migraine

COVID has changed the holidays, in some ways making life more difficult and in some ways making life easier and more fun. While we can now gather for the holidays, some are keeping it to immediate family only. Some are requiring merry-makers to be vaccinated to join gatherings. Traveling is allowed but may be difficult due to COVID staffing constraints. On the plus side, we have learned how to keep in touch with friends and family using video. Online shopping has become mainstream – and we are good at it! Unfortunately, this has also created a demand that shipping channels are finding difficult to fulfill on a timely basis.
Hopefully, one or more of these suggestions will help you help keep your migraine sensitive brain remain calm:
Preparations
Decide what truly needs to be done vs what you think has to be done
Have realistic expectations - it doesn’t have to be done like the magazines
Plan ahead - make lists to stay organized
Ask for help or delegate tasks
Be flexible - be willing to do things differently
Pace yourself
Health
Stay very well hydrated
Keep a consistent sleep schedule
Eat whole clean food - try to limit processed foods
Beware, chocolate can be a premonitory migraine craving or a trigger
Avoid or limit alcohol intake
Take breaks - go for a walk, and get fresh air
Breathe - make time for mindfulness
Shopping
Shop online - the earlier, the better
Stores are less busy during dinner time
Mail cards and gifts early
Gatherings
Resist overscheduling
Decide ahead of time how long you want to stay at a gathering and stick to it
Have an escape plan; don’t be afraid to implement it