Here are some tips to help you enjoy the season without letting arthritis symptoms take control of your life.

The holidays are an exciting time full of parties, gifts and reconnecting with family and friends. They could also be very stressful and at times overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the season without letting arthritis symptoms take control of your life.

Find a way to manage stress

If you are stressed out and losing sleep over holiday preparations, you will feel the effects physically and your health may suffer. Chances are, there are tons of fun activities and opportunities you would like to take part in, but it is important to set limits for yourself to avoid causing a painful flare-up. Make a list of all the gatherings you are invited to and the ones you plan to host yourself. Remember that throwing a party is a lot more work than simply attending one. Decide which events are important to you and make those a priority - only attend the other ones if you feel up to it.

Everyday Health notes that making tiny adjustments to your holiday routine can have huge benefits for your wellness. For example, if you typically bring homemade mashed potatoes and an intricate made-from-scratch tart to Christmas dinner, volunteer for a lower-maintenance responsibility, like appetizers. You can find delicious pre-made options at the grocery store. You will still be contributing to the celebration, but you will not be sacrificing your joint health.

Everyday Health also notes that minimizing travel plans is a good idea when it comes to staying energetic and strong this time of the year. If you feel the need to take a trip, consider limiting it to one excursion for the whole season - instead of flying north for Thanksgiving and south for Christmas, only spend one holiday far from home. Travel is exhausting and stressful and having a severe flare up when you are away from home can take some of the joy from the season.

Check in with yourself and your doctor

The Arthritis Foundation says you can help to avoid severe holiday depression by discussing treatments and strategies with your doctor and listening to your body. This busy time of year may be the right moment to adjust medication or consider using an adaptive device. Such options can reduce pain and make your celebrations a lot more fun.

If you have feelings of depression, do not hesitate to tell your physician. People experiencing arthritis often have mood problems, and there is no reason you should go through the holidays feeling physically and emotionally unwell.

Watch what you eat

Eating too many rich foods can negatively impact your arthritis symptoms, notes Everyday health. Do not be tempted by overflowing cookie displays and mystery casseroles drenched in cream - focus on getting plenty of good fats, vitamin D and calcium into your body. Try suggesting healthy foods - like fish instead of beef - to friends and relatives. Bring a prepackaged fruit platter to holiday parties to provide an alternative to the unhealthy options dominating the dessert table.

For more coping with arthritis during the holidays:

How to Cope with Arthritis During the Holidays
Adjusting Expectations to Meet the Reality of Arthritis
Having Fun Yet? Seven Steps toward Bringing More Fun into Your Life