Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition with many symptoms. An estimated ten million people in the United States and an estimated 3-6 percent of the world population is affected by this according the National Fibromyalgia Association.

I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia almost twenty years ago. It’s something I learned to live around. I choose not to take any form of medication and instead lean on alternative healing and a healthy lifestyle mind, body, spirit and soul.

When the holidays arrive they can sometimes be stressful, especially for someone living with Fibromyalgia. People with this syndrome deal with widespread pain and fatigue almost every minute of every day. Sometimes it is so severe it is difficult to get out of bed. Please know that you do not have to live this way and that there are things you can do to better your health. It has been a journey for me over these past twenty years exploring options and taking action to change my overall health.

Remember that any type of stress can cause you pain. Here are some things you can do.

Do not fall into victimhood. Change your mindset. Believe that you can heal and you will.

Love yourself enough to know you are important.

Start making changes in your life and see what works.

Start with your body. Think about what foods you are putting into your system. Many people living with fibromyalgia have an allergy or sensitivity to gluten. Gluten can upset our digestive systems. It can cause pain, inflammation, and fatigue. There are many healthy gluten free options now on the market. Try eliminating it from your diet. Think about adding ancient protein grains to your diet such as quinoa and amaranth. Think about eliminating other food that can cause inflammation such as meat and soy. Living from a plant based diet of mainly organic fruits and vegetables is extremely healthy for your body. Eliminate sugar, soda and processed foods as they taxing to the body. Instead drink more water and herbal teas.  Start paying attention to ingredients and what is on the label.

Work on starting to feed your mind, spirit and soul with positive thoughts and positive feelings. Connect with the spiritual side of your being. Connect with the love that is inside you. Take some time out of your day to pray, be still and meditate. Focus on every cell of your body healing. Breath in love and breath out life. Light some candles and connect with your angels. They are always there to help. Never be afraid to ask for their advice or the advice of the Universe. The Universe always sees you. It is always willing to assist if you ask. Send up a prayer, wish, want or need. Then pay attention to the signs and messages your receive. Listen to your intuition. Listen to your higher self. It always wants the best for you. When your receive that answer, never be afraid to make that change. Release what is not good for you and ask for assistance in helping you do so. Nothing has helped me more than getting in touch with my spiritual side.

Consider some alternative therapies such as acupuncture, energy healing such as Reiki, light massage to release toxins, yoga, and salt baths. Remember that your body needs movement and so does your energy. Always drink lots of water after any of these treatments.

Holiday can often times trigger or symptoms. It is important to be aware of what your triggers are. Many people with Fibromyalgia suffer with anxiety and depression. Some people fear they will never have the time or energy to get things done in time. For some people, this can be a lonely time of the year. Chose to lead from your higher mind. Never be afraid to talk about anything that is bothering you with others. Speak lovingly from your heart. Let go of any anger or resentments you may have. Anger of any kind, known or unknown causes pain in your body. The more you hold on to it, the worse the pain gets and the more stress it causes. Work on ways to release it and never allow it in. Remember, this is a beautiful time of year. It is a time to spend with family and friends, and to just enjoy the energies of the season. Give thanks and appreciate life. It makes a huge difference.

Ask for help if you need it with anything. Speak up and know your limits. Don’t host an event if it is too much for you. People will understand. Attend only what you can attend and don’t be afraid to leave early if you get tired and need to care for yourself. Love yourself enough to know this. Feel free to explain, but never go into victimhood. Know that you are not helpless.

When attending events always inform the host of your diet.  Ask them what they are serving and let them know what you can and can’t eat.  Many people will be willing to accommodate you.  Otherwise ask if you can bring a dish of your own.

Send yourself lots of self love and stay positive no matter what is around you. Live in the moment and go with the flow.  Happy Holidays