Don’t Let the Holidays Be a Pain

The holidays are such a fun time with family and friends! With all the fun fall festivities to all the Christmas family gatherings there is so much to do during the holidays! When life gets busy it can be easy to forget to take care of our bodies while doing all the preparations that these activities and gatherings entail. Failing to take precautions and take care of our body can result in aches and pains later. We are going to share with you a few ways that you can prevent these aches and pains so you can focus on spending time with friends and family. Don’t let pain ruin your holiday season!  

Pain with Cleaning  

Chances are that you will most likely be doing some sort of cleaning during the holiday season and cleaning can cause back and shoulder pain. Here are some tips to reduce that pain while cleaning: 

• Try warming up before cleaning. Cleaning can be a strenuous activity and warming up might not be what you think of when you think about cleaning, but it is important! You could do a couple of quick stretches or go for a short walk to get your body ready. 

• Remember to maintain good posture while vacuuming, and while vacuuming under furniture, make sure to kneel down and use your vacuum attachments with the hose instead of trying to bend over.  

• Take breaks, don’t do everything at once and overexert yourself. You can take breaks in between cleaning and break rooms up into sections so cleaning doesn’t feel as overwhelming.  

Pain with Cooking  

Cooking for the holidays can be a task that takes a toll on your body, especially if you are cooking for multiple hours. It is important to take appropriate measures to prevent injuries or strains when cooking for the holidays.  

• Wear supportive shoes - you're probably going to be standing for a long period of time, so it is important to wear supportive shoes to prevent back pain.  

• Use a step stool when reaching things so you don’t have to bend over and end up getting hurt while trying to reach things in your kitchen.  

• Take breaks when needed. Someone else could take over or you could just take a short break to give your muscles time to relax and recover to prevent injuries.  

Pain with Decorating  

Decorating for the holidays can be exciting and a fun time! All the pumpkins and fall decorations along with the Christmas lights, Christmas trees, and all other decorations can really get you into the holiday spirit! It is important to practice good body mechanics when decorating to prevent injuries.  

• It is important to not work too far over your head, as this can put a lot of strain on your back. Use a step stool to reach high items and work in small sections to prevent reaching too far.  

• When lifting heavy objects, always squat down and bend with your knees and hips. Do not bend over and lift a heavy object straight upright - this can cause pain and injury.  

• Work in small sections, you don’t need to decorate the entire inside and outside of your house in one day. Break it up between multiple days and don’t be afraid to ask others for help!  

The holidays are supposed to be a fun time for you to spend with people that you love, don’t let the holidays be a pain. Take these helpful tips into consideration when you start prepping for the holidays!