How to Make the Holiday Season Joyous 🎁

The holidays can be tough, not only for the healthy individual, but especially for those of us who are fighting an already difficult battle. The holidays are a joyous time to celebrate with friends and family but can also add a lot of stress to our lives.

As we approach the end of the year and begin a new one, you may be having a lot of questions in your mind:

“Will I be healthy and cancer free this year?”

“What will the holidays look like next year?”

“Will this new year bring new challenges or is it only up from here?”

“How can I celebrate when I have so many other things on my mind?”

Not only are we sometimes adding stress to our own lives but sometimes the holidays may be a triggering time surrounded my family we no longer feel connected to. It’s important that you take time for self-care and really allow yourself the space to say yes or no to the events that come up.

Here are a few tips to help you navigate the holidays while also protecting your peace:

1. Make plans with the people who bring you joy. Surround yourself with good people who can provide you belly laughs and a sense of relief away from your stressful norms. If time seems to stand still when you are with them, you’re with the right people. Whether this is in person or virtual, schedule time to connect with those you love.

2. Tend to your energy. Going through treatment is exhausting both physically and mentally. The holidays are filled with social events that can be fun but also draining. Always do self check-in’s to see how you are feeling and if you are up to socializing. Don’t be afraid to say no.

3. Express yourself to loved ones. Battling cancer is nearly impossible alone and I can guarantee at least one person has helped you along the way. Take this time to send love and gratitude to those who have helped you through gifts, letters or just a simple hug and “thank you.”

4. Give yourself what you need. Going home for the holidays may be triggering and add on a lot of stress physically, financially and emotionally. Maybe this is the year you do something different? I have stayed in LA the last few years because I know going home is more stressful than staying in sunny California. This decision has made me feel guilty in the past but protecting my peace will always outweigh the need to please others. Do what is best for you this season.

5. Don’t forget to gift yourself. This year has been challenging, draining, filled with hospital visits and a LOT of ups and downs. Don’t forget to celebrate your wins and strengths because you my friend, are a warrior. The gift doesn’t have to be lavish (or maybe it does 😉) but make sure to give yourself something nice this holiday season….because you deserve it!

MEETING RECAP

So many new members this week, WELCOME!

• Anti-Depressants: If you’re feeling down during treatment and are looking for something to help with the highs and lows, anti-depressants are a wonderful answer. Many of us have added this to our daily routine because the biological changes happening in our body can sometimes feel beyond our control. Talk to your doctor about your options.

• Supporting Kids While Battling Cancer: this is a tough one and broke my heart to hear. For those of you who have to remain strong for your children while you fight your own battle, this group is here for you. There are many moms here and if you are looking to connect with someone who understands, join our next call on Wed Dec 27!

• CB Product Donations Google Sheet: If you are looking for products to support you during treatment OR you have extra items laying around your house you no longer need, fill out this google sheet! Please provide a contact email so someone can reach out if they are interested in having your item. All shipping must be arranged between both parties.

🍋READ OF THE WEEK🍋

💪🏽WELLNESS TIP OF THE WEEK💪🏽

🎵TREATMENT SONG OF THE WEEK🎵

🗓UPCOMING EVENTS🗓

🌟WED DEC 27th 5:30pm PST: BI-WEEKLY CANCER BADDIES CALLYou Dese

What other events/offerings would you like to have? Send me an email!