by Irene Roth, Blog Editor/Writer
Galentine’s Day, celebrated on February 13th, is a special occasion to honor the incredible friendships in your life. It’s a day for laughter, connection, and celebrating the bonds between women. For those living with fibromyalgia, planning a celebration can feel daunting, but with a little creativity and self-care, you can enjoy a memorable and fibro-friendly Galentine’s Day.
And the great thing is that you don’t have to celebrate Galentine’s Day once a year. You can do so more often, if you wish. I love the whole idea of getting together with my lady friends and hanging out. Every season, or even more often if we can, we get together for a slumber party. We eat foods we shouldn’t, drink wine, and watch movies for hours. We also have a lot of heart-to-heart conversations.
Perhaps the thought of getting together with others can really stop you in your tracks. If that’s the case, here are some ideas to help you celebrate while honoring your body’s needs.
1. Host a Cozy Pajama Party
If you’re looking for a low-energy way to celebrate, a pajama party is the perfect solution. Invite a few close friends over, encourage everyone to wear their comfiest loungewear, and create a cozy atmosphere with soft blankets and calming lighting. Plan gentle activities like watching feel-good movies, playing board games, or simply chatting over warm drinks.
Prepare fibro-friendly snacks such as a fruit platter, herbal teas, or gluten-free treats if dietary restrictions apply. Let your friends know in advance that it will be a relaxed evening, so everyone can come prepared for a laid-back celebration.
2. Virtual Gatherings for Long-Distance Friends
If you’re not up for hosting or if your friends live far away, a virtual Galentine’s Day is a fantastic option. Schedule a video call and plan activities like a virtual trivia game, sharing favorite memories or even a DIY craft session together. There are plenty of online platforms and apps that make group video calls fun and interactive.
To make it extra special, send out small care packages ahead of time with matching face masks, snacks, or a handwritten note to each friend. Opening these together during your call can create a shared sense of celebration.
3. Create a Self-Care Circle
Fibro warriors know the importance of self-care, so why not center your Galentine’s Day around it? Invite your friends to join you in a self-care session, whether in person or virtually. This could include painting nails, doing gentle yoga stretches, or creating vision boards for the year ahead.
You could also exchange self-care gifts, such as essential oils, cozy socks, or journals. Focus on activities that bring relaxation and joy without overexertion, ensuring everyone feels refreshed and loved.
4. Have a Themed Tea Party
A fibro-friendly tea party can be a delightful way to celebrate. Keep the guest list small and opt for an afternoon gathering, as energy levels might be higher earlier in the day. Serve a selection of herbal teas, light sandwiches, and soft desserts that are easy to prepare or purchase.
Decorate the table with simple yet elegant touches like flowers or candles and encourage everyone to bring a favorite tea to share. The intimate setting allows for meaningful conversations and a sense of togetherness.
5. Focus on Gratitude and Connection
Galentine’s Day is ultimately about celebrating the women who uplift and inspire you. Take time to express gratitude for your friends. Write heartfelt notes or create a gratitude jar where each person can share what they love about the others.
If energy levels are low, keep it simple by sending personalized messages or voice notes to your closest friends. Let them know how much their support means to you, especially as someone navigating life with fibromyalgia.
Thus, celebrating Galentine’s Day as a fibro warrior is all about balancing joy and self-care. Whether you choose a cozy pajama party, a virtual hangout, or a self-care circle, the key is to honor your body’s needs while cherishing the bonds that bring love and laughter into your life. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a celebration that’s as unique and wonderful as you are.