Tips for preparing for Christmas during the Menopause

Embrace the Festive Chaos

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the whirlwind of shopping, decorating, and hosting. While everyone is busy wrapping presents and dreaming of sugarplum fairies, if you’re experiencing menopause, the festive chaos can transform into a storm of hot flashes and panic attacks. But fear not! Here are seven tips to help you navigate the hustle and bustle with ease, ensuring you enjoy this magical time of year.

Plan Ahead for Present Picking

Nothing escalates your anxiety levels quite like rushing through crowded stores, trying to find the perfect gift. Create a shortlist of people to shop for, along with a few gift ideas for each. Online shopping is your friend here; it allows you to skip the busy shops and avoid those hot, stuffy environments. You can cuddle up on your couch, sipping on hot chocolate or a glass of wine, while adding to your cart! Can't find the perfect gift? A heartfelt card can be just the trick. I often use cards as a "get out of jail free" option - I'll include an invitation to lunch in the new year or suggest an art gallery or museum visit with coffee or cocktails after. Not every gift needs to be wrapped up in bows! If you need more time for yourself, channel your creativity into fun card ideas for the new year. It'll give you and the recipient something to look forward to in 2025.

Set a Budget and Stick to It

Holiday shopping can strain your wallet, and that stress can exacerbate menopause symptoms. Take some time to plan a budget before you set foot into shops or start browsing online. Keeping track of your expenses will help you manage those financial panic attacks and allow you to focus on what truly matters—what makes your loved ones happy. Plus, that way you can treat yourself to a well-deserved self-care day without guilt!

Make Space for Self-Care

Amid the Christmas shopping frenzy, your wellbeing is paramount. Ensure you dedicate time to recharge, whether it’s innate self-care routines like yoga, meditation, or simply a warm bubble bath. Adequate sleep is crucial to counteract the fatigue and irritability that may accompany the festive frenzy. Prioritise your rest; remember, it’s just one day, and the holiday spirit should be filled with joy—not stress!

Avoid the Crowds

The last thing you need while dealing with menopausal symptoms are crowded car parks and endless lines. If you can, opt for early morning shopping or late-night hours when the shops are less congested. This way, you can dodge the overwhelming noise and the rush. Also, consider hitting local crafts fairs or small businesses where the atmosphere tends to be a lot more tranquil.

Ask for Help

If you feel overwhelmed with hosting duties, don't hesitate to delegate tasks to family members or friends. You could set up a 'potluck' style Christmas gathering where each guest brings a dish. It allows for less pressure on you and more time to enjoy the festivities. Remember, asking for assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's all about community during the holidays! To reduce my stress levels, I use my slow cookers to handle the mulled wine, Christmas pudding, Coca-Cola ham, red cabbage, and other festive dishes. This frees me up from tending to things on the hob or in the oven, giving me more time to myself. You can even do the turkey crown and gravy in the slow cooker!
If you don't have a slow cooker yet, I highly recommend this one. It has a "warm" setting that's perfect for letting dishes rest and allowing people to help themselves, or giving you extra time if you need to focus on something else. Slow cookers are definitely more energy-efficient than running the oven all day.

Focus on the Joy of the Season

During the holiday shopping madness, it is important to take a step back and refocus on what truly matters. Surround yourself with loved ones, indulge in the festive spirit, and remember that this, too, shall pass—just like every holiday season before it. Celebrate the gifts of love and connection, and don’t let stress overshadow the joy. After all, it’s just one day, and little moments can become cherished memories!