Chanukah is a time of light, miracles, and togetherness. But when you’re navigating the emotional and physical toll of infertility, this season can feel heavy. The menorah’s story—the oil that lasted longer than expected—might seem far removed from how you’re feeling right now. If your “oil” is running low this Chanukah, you’re not alone, and it’s okay to take a step back to care for yourself.
Here are 8 gentle ways to handle burnout when you need a break from infertility treatments, conversations, and everything in between:
1. Set Boundaries with Love
The holidays often bring well-meaning but intrusive questions about family plans. Practice kind but firm responses, like, “Thank you for asking, but we’re focusing on enjoying the holidays right now.” Protecting your emotional energy is an act of self-care.
2. Light Your Own Candle
Chanukah reminds us that a small light can shine brightly in the darkest of times. Each night, light your menorah with a personal intention—whether it’s hope, healing, or just making it through today. These moments can feel like quiet acts of resilience.
3. Take a Break from Treatments
If you’re feeling physically or emotionally drained, it’s okay to pause. Use this time to reconnect with yourself or your partner. Chanukah’s eight days can be a reminder that rest is sacred and necessary to refill your (hot cocoa) cup.
4. Embrace Small Joys
Infertility can feel all-consuming, but the little joys around you are still worth savoring. Indulge in your favorite latkes, enjoy a cozy movie night (Another binge-watch of Nobody Wants This?!), or spend time with loved ones who lift you up. Let these small moments remind you that joy and struggle can coexist.
5. Focus on What You Can Control
Infertility can leave you feeling powerless, but Chanukah’s traditions offer a comforting structure. Try creating your own nightly ritual—like journaling, meditating, or reflecting on one thing you’re grateful for—to regain a sense of stability.
6. Find Your Supportive Spaces
Whether it’s online or WhatsApp groups (like ours), close friends, or a therapist, lean on those who understand your journey. If you’re not ready to share, that’s okay too. Sometimes, just being in a supportive space (even quietly) can help lighten the emotional load.
7. Reframe the Miracle
Chanukah celebrates an unexpected miracle, but miracles don’t always look like we imagine. Maybe this year’s “miracle” is your own resilience, your ability to keep showing up, or the strength to take a break when you need one.
8. Connect with Fruitful
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Fruitful offers a supportive community, resources, and tools to help you find connection, encouragement, and understanding. Whether you need someone to listen, tips for self-care, or just a reminder that you’re not alone, we’re here for you. This Chanukah, let us be part of your light.
This Chanukah, may you find light even in the smallest of moments. And if your oil feels like it’s running low, know that it’s okay to pause, refill, and prioritize your well-being. The flames will shine again when you’re ready.
This post has been contributed by a third party. The opinions, facts and any media content are presented solely by the author, and JewishPhoenix assumes no responsibility for them. MORE
