December is busy. And its demanding.
On top of the energy-zapping shorter days, the overload of Christmas activities and the pressure to keep going – we seem to be awash with the threat of germs. The flu.
And last week, I succumbed. I had a touch of the flu and a big reminder that I might need to adopt a little more self-care.
At least, I think it was the flu, all signs point to the flu. And I say a touch because although I felt quite rough, I think it could have been worse. It somewhat derailed my plans – a missed trip to meet friends for a day out, a 50th birthday party (not mine) and Christmas shopping (which still needs to be done!).
When you are forced to stop
It was interesting, because although I was missing things and sad not to be able to see people, I also was so wiped out and ill that I also didn’t care. I could barely even look at my phone for a few days, and I didn’t even have the capacity to worry or overthink. A departure from my normal behaviour.
Although, historically, I would have pushed myself back to normality fairly quickly, I now act quite differently. I think the body often tries to tell us something when we’re unwell. And for me, last week, it was to stop. To take a break. To spend time with no agenda, no productivity, and no expectations. A mini midlife interrupted moment.
Plus a little reminder that I might need to revisit my self care and that I had maybe been neglecting some areas.
Simple Self-Care
Yes, I would love to indulge and book myself a spa weekend, a digital reset break (have you seen those magical no-phone cabins, with the outside bath?), or even just a facial or a massage. But that would be a temporary fix…
Self-care, in my mind, is mostly about being aware of what’s not working for us and then making small changes. It could mean planning a rest night in our schedule, planning in time to exercise, taking the pressure off by making nutrition easy. It could mean, dare I even say it, saying No to a few things.
Through my dalliance with the flu, I realised that I needed to get back to the basics to elevate my self-care:
01
Planning and Protecting Rest
When I plan I can see where I’ve said yes a bit too often, and have overcommitted without prioritising rest and sleep. This has gone out of the window a little bit, mostly due to my in ability to say no.
I know that for many of us in peri or menopause (and even more after cancer) sleep can sometimes evade us. We know its so good for us, so restorative, so beneficial to our immune system and yet sometimes so elusive. I’ve been a bit better at spreading out plans so I’m not having back to back Christmas meet ups and leaving time for rest and hopefully sleep. And there’s nothing wrong with an afternoon nap….
02
Hydration and Nutrition
Hydration and nutrition support the core functions of our immune system. I’ve recently been attempting to drink 2L per day – not always been successful though. But water was my friend as I worked my way through that touch of flu.
I’ve also been trying to be more mindful about what I eat – during these busy periods, I’ve some easy go to and quick food options which are a mix of protein and vegetables. I’ve deliberately tried to stay away from ultra-processed options which can be so appealing especially when we don’t feel well. But I have succumbed to a few bits of Tony’s Chocolonely (and in particular this Everything Bar)
03
Getting daylight, even briefly
Yes, we hear all the time about how daylight, morning light is essential to regulate our body clock and help our sleep. Natural light also supports vitamin D production and helps keep hormones like cortisol in balance. I really do try to get out and about in the morning, its my favourite time to exercise.
But I also am not perfect – if I can’t get out first thing, I will sit in my bright sunlit window and enjoy my morning coffee. And I have my new SAD lamp which helps a bit.
04
Reducing decision-making and mental load
I really find December overloaded with decisions – what gifts to buy, what to wear to the various events, where to go for a Christmas meet up – all on top of normal every day decisions. This constant decision making can impact our stress levels, keeping them elevated – not good for immunity!
I always go back to planning – I plan out my week and meals in advance, even choosing clothes for specific events in advance and where I can, I adopt a daily routine. I have some go to meals which I can make easily but are nutritious.
05
Moving your body
Movement is medicine – it helps reduce stress and also helps with sleep.
My go to exercise is running but after this flu, I have a cough and am not ready to push myself there yet – but now that I’m once again out of bed, I’m building my steps back up with a few short walks throughout the day. I’m looking forward to getting those trainers on though….
