The holidays should be a joyful time, and that includes treating yourself. It’s important not to put pressure on yourself with strict rules or restrictions – this can lead to unnecessary stress, which can negatively affect your lipoedema. Instead, it helps to consciously free yourself from these worries and allow exceptions. Mindful time with family and mindful indulgence, such as enjoying different foods outside your usual routines, can make a big difference. Remember, not every day needs to be perfect. I personally follow the 80/20 method, ensuring that I eat anti-inflammatory foods about 80% of the time. If you treat yourself, enjoy it without fear of pain. The key is balance: a healthy balance between festive meals and your overall well-being will help you experience the holidays without guilt or increased lipoedema pain.

1. Plan Your Meals and Ahead
Think about how you want to spend and shape the holidays. Can you integrate healthy, lipoedema-friendly dishes or snacks? Perhaps you can also arrange a walk after meals to get your circulation going and reduce the heavy feeling in your legs.

2. Movement
Support yourself and your lymphatic flow by doing small workouts. Walking, yoga, Pilates, stretching exercises, or dry brushing can help reduce swelling and prevent pain.

3. Drink Water
An easy trick to support yourself: drinking plenty of water or herbal tea helps flush out toxins and reduce swelling. Especially after a fatty meal, it’s helpful to drink enough! Try lemon water after a heavy meal – it aids your digestion.

Christmas time is an opportunity to take care of yourself, set boundaries, and stand up for your needs. If someone asks why you don’t want to eat something, take the chance to (again) explain lipoedema to them. Unfortunately, you often have to do this repeatedly. I know how frustrating it can be, but eventually, it will sink in.

Allow yourself breaks, say “no” if something becomes too much, and listen to your body. By consciously taking time for yourself and focusing on the beautiful moments, you can reduce stress, which is often one of the biggest triggers for lipoedema symptoms.

I hope these tips help you enjoy the Advent season and holidays with lipoedema, without fear of worsening your condition.

Remember: It’s perfectly okay to make small exceptions as long as you take good care of your body afterward. Christmas can be a big challenge, so take care of yourself and be kind to yourself.

Wishing you a light and pain-free Christmas season 🙂

With all my love,
Talia