Self PREPARE TO PARTY We share tips on how to ensure you make the most of the winter festivities without overdoing things Get ready in stages If you have a big event such as an office party coming up, see what you can do in advance to take some of the pressure out of the day, such as laying out your outfit, washing your hair, and making your travel plans. On the day, build in enough time to rest between getting ready and going out, if you need it. Share the load If you are having people round, ask them to contribute by bringing a dish. Also ask for and accept help with the clearing up. Honesty is the best policy If you are tired or in pain, BY LOUISE PARFITT tell people. Explain to them how you feel and that you may need to take it easy. Its OK to say that, sometimes, you might have to cancel plans at the last minute if you have a flare-up, and that doing something energetic may impact the following days for you. including with yourself Be honest with yourself. This means listening to your body so you dont slip into a boom and bust cycle of overdoing things, which can cause symptoms to flare up. Pain and fatigue dont just affect your physical health; they also take a toll on you emotionally. Pace yourself Keeping a pain diary can help you to see how much you can realistically cope with during busy periods. Start now and record how long you spend on an activity, and how you feel afterwards. This will help you to plan what you are able to do comfortably and will help ensure you have a good time. It doesnt have to be all or nothing You dont have to spend all day at a family gathering. Youll have a better experience if you stay for a shorter time and leave while you still feel good, rather than staying until you have had enough. This also applies to hosting: let people know how long the occasion will last based on your needs. Prioritise your must dos You may pride yourself on making a cheesecake from scratch, so do it if you can. But then make your life a bit easier by buying in pre-prepared food for other dishes, or dont make so many. 42 versusarthritis.org PP42-43_Inspire_Winter 2023_Pace yourself.indd 42 14/11/2023 12:09