Stress busters for the season

As the leaves turn color and temperatures cool, we’re reminded that the new season can bring some positive benefits. It can also bring stress. Here are some tips to help you make it through the cooler months.

Be sure to re-enroll in health insurance

Nothing adds to stress like insurance troubles, so if your health insurance renews in October, November, or December, don’t forget to re-enroll.

• Many insurance policies terminate in December, so be sure to double check your policy

Maintain healthy routines

Don’t let holiday parties become an excuse for overindulgence that will leave you feeling drained and unwell.

• Have a healthy snack before attending parties so that you’ll be less likely to go overboard on sweets, cheeses, or drinks
• Make sure you get plenty of sleep
• Continue your exercise regimen, or at least incorporate some regular physical activity into each day. Talk to your doctor before starting or changing your exercise routine.

Don’t take on more than you can handle

Traditions are great, but there’s no sense in being bound to something that might jeopardize your well-being. Things may need to be adjusted to reflect the reality of your life with MS.

If preparing “the big holiday meal” is too much for you to handle alone this year, you may want to:

• Ask care partners for help beforehand, and at the holiday dinner or party itself
• Assign dishes for relatives and friends to bring
• Buy a pie instead of baking one
• Prepare dishes in advance and freeze them