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The holidays can be magical and exhausting at the same time, especially when you’re managing Multiple Sclerosis fatigue. Between decorating, cooking, shopping and the expectations we place on ourselves, it can feel like you’re always choosing between making memories and preserving your energy. But it does not have to be that way. You can enjoy this season and still honor your body’s need for rest.

1. Embrace ‘Good Enough’ Decorating

Rather than trying to decorate every corner of your home, choose a few key spots and keep it simple. Let go of perfection. Focus on the joy of placing ornaments on the tree or lighting a few candles. Invite your family to help you so it becomes a shared activity instead of a solo production.

2. Simplify Gift Giving

Cut back on the number of gifts you buy by shifting to a family gift exchange or by giving experiences instead of things. Fewer gifts mean more time and energy for each one, and the memories you create together will last far longer than any physical item.

3. Plan for Rest and Downtime

Treat rest periods as essential appointments. Block off quiet afternoons or designate days without any activities. Make these pauses non-negotiable. They will help you maintain steady energy and prevent the kind of crash that ruins the fun.

4. Delegate Holiday Tasks

Ask for help and accept it gratefully. Children can wrap gifts or mix cookie dough. Your partner can handle grocery pickups. Guests can bring a dish when they visit. Sharing the workload keeps you involved without overloading your plate.

5. Create Low-Energy, High-Connection Traditions

Choose simple traditions that bring everyone together without draining your energy. For example:

• Hot chocolate night with marshmallows and cinnamon
• Holiday movie marathon with blankets and popcorn
• Slow neighborhood lights tour by car or on foot
• DIY ornament or greeting card crafting session
• Storytelling evening with favorite family memories

6. Plan Simple, Nourishing Meals

Opt for one-pot dishes, slow cooker recipes or easy vegetable platters. Focus on meals that support steady energy rather than elaborate feasts that leave you exhausted. Nourish your body so you can fully participate in the festivities.

7. Make Shopping Work for You

Shop online to avoid crowded malls, or visit stores during off-peak hours. If you love browsing in person, pace yourself by limiting each trip to one or two stores. Supporting local businesses can also make shopping feel more relaxed and meaningful.

Conclusion

Managing MS fatigue does not mean missing out on holiday magic. By redefining what a special holiday looks like; one that values rest, simplicity and connection, you can create meaningful memories without sacrificing your health.

Want More Encouragement Like This? Tune into this week’s special episode of My MS Podcast: How to Avoid Holiday Burnout with MS Fatigue and Listen now to My MS Podcast