13 JULY 2018
It's the last weekend before Comic-Con. And for many of us, it's our last chance to rest up before the madness starts. Come Wednesday, we'll be staying out very late, getting up very early or not going to bed at all. We'll eat too much bar food, drink not enough water, sit for hours in uncomfortable chairs and stand for hours in tedious lines. We'll sleep on hotel room floors and slowly leaking air mattresses. And sticking to us at every opportunity will be the germs of thousands of strangers.
Which means you want to stay healthy, right? Or at least keep your engine running long enough to get through Sunday. So here are a few ways you can preserve yourself. First-timers, this is no joke.
#1. Relax this weekend.
Sleep, lay around, be lazy, get a good massage. If you're already burned out or overworked or you're recovering from a recent surgery or illness, you really need to rest up or SDCC will hit you like a truck.
#2. Bring drugs.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can bring them flaring to life. Your plantar fasciitis can come back or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. A slipped disc or bad knee can get irritated. If traveling and restaurant meals typically upset your digestion, bring something for that too. And if you plan on partying hard, you really need to bring a cure. You won't be able to hide away somewhere and turn off humanity like you can at home when you're hungover.
#3. Bring physical supports.
If you've had any kind of recent trouble like a sprained ankle, pulled muscle or an injured shoulder, I would recommend bringing any wraps, braces and muscle ointment you can. Sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult. Lots of people bring small fold-up stools or even air hammocks to make their line waits more comfortable.
#4. Get assistance if you need it.
CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
#5. Boost your immunity.
If you pick up colds and viruses easily, practice whatever faux-medical juju you normally do, like echinacea, bee pollen, Emergen-C, a B-12 shot, etc. I've never gotten sick from the Con but other people swear that Con Flu is real. And you will be touching escalator railings, book covers, photo op props and other surfaces recently contaminated by dozens or hundreds of others. I'm sorry to keep harping on that but I feel like people are so dazzled by the Con that they forget what an infection factory it can be.
#6. Eat well.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. Try to eat healthy and don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of donuts in your room or the stale snacks served up in hospitality rooms. SDCC can be physically tiring and emotionally frustrating, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood. I eat a lavish breakfast every morning and carry apples everywhere because you never know when you might have to skip lunch to hold your spot in line, or your friends delay dinner because they are still in Hall H.
#7. Stay hydrated.
Con-going is thirsty work. And buying bottled water on site adds up fast. Bring enough water to get you through the lines and the exertion. As a hiker I follow the "If you're halfway through your water, you're halfway through your hike" rule and the same holds for SDCC. Keep yourself hydrated, especially if you plan on standing in any lines at all, or you could run into trouble.
#8. Don't overdo the hedonism.
I mean, if you're there solely to obliterate yourself, go ahead. But if you're going to SDCC to actually do the panels and hunt exclusives and back issues and take in the offsites, I'd practice moderation. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and wind up wasting your day in a nap. And you don't want to be a burden on your friends; I've talked before about the year a friend was so hungover we missed all of Sunday, and another time a friend's friend got so high that he wound up lost and we were looking for him until 3 a.m. No one wants to babysit you at Comic-Con.
#9. Prepare mental and emotional resources.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe your roommate's every word is irritating you. Or maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for whatever reason. If you're prone to these kind of reactions, make sure you have someone back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. I know this all sounds very dramatic but I've seen attendees burst into tears or get into vicious fights with close friends where they had to change hotel rooms. Get help if you need it.
#10. Take breaks.
If you start feeling exhausted or it's just stopped being fun, cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in a dark room watching anime for a few hours or go swimming. Ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. Sometimes it's just too much humanity for too many days in a row.
#11. Get your sleep.
If you're prone to insomnia, do whatever you can (white noise, sleep masks, lavender oil, melatonin, whatever works) to make sure you sleep through the night. Maybe you're one of those people that doesn't need much sleep; but most of us will feel any severe sleep deprivation hit hard at SDCC after a day. At least take a disco nap before you go out.
Enjoy your weekend. Make it a leisurely one.
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wellness. Show all posts
12 ways to stay healthy at SDCC
13 JULY 2017
Next week is going to be grueling - early mornings, late nights, long lines, and nefarious human germs lingering on every elevator button and exhibitor booth. (Sorry, but it's true.) Obviously you want to keep yourself in prime physical condition, but Comic-Con is full of attendees who end up missing out on some of the Con because they're ill - or they come home in horrible shape. So here's my usual advice on protecting yourself, mentally and physically.
Next week is going to be grueling - early mornings, late nights, long lines, and nefarious human germs lingering on every elevator button and exhibitor booth. (Sorry, but it's true.) Obviously you want to keep yourself in prime physical condition, but Comic-Con is full of attendees who end up missing out on some of the Con because they're ill - or they come home in horrible shape. So here's my usual advice on protecting yourself, mentally and physically.
#1. Rest up now.
Do everything you can this weekend to relax and catch up on your sleep. I've been working 70-80 hour weeks for a while now and I look and feel like a zombie. If you've been in demand or under the weather, try to get some rest now or SDCC will hit you like a truck.
Do everything you can this weekend to relax and catch up on your sleep. I've been working 70-80 hour weeks for a while now and I look and feel like a zombie. If you've been in demand or under the weather, try to get some rest now or SDCC will hit you like a truck.
#2. Bring drugs.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. A slipped disc or bad knee can flare into a major issue. And just traveling and heavy restaurant meals can upset your digestion, so bring something for that too.
#3. Bring physical supports.
If you've had any kind of recent trouble like a sprained ankle, pulled muscle or an injured shoulder, I would recommend bringing any wraps, braces and muscle ointment you can. Even if you feel okay now, sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult. Lots of people bring small fold-up stools or even air hammocks to make their line waits more comfortable. And if you can, bring your own pillows so the terrible hotel ones don't give you a stiff neck.
#4. Get assistance if you need it.
CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. A slipped disc or bad knee can flare into a major issue. And just traveling and heavy restaurant meals can upset your digestion, so bring something for that too.
#3. Bring physical supports.
If you've had any kind of recent trouble like a sprained ankle, pulled muscle or an injured shoulder, I would recommend bringing any wraps, braces and muscle ointment you can. Even if you feel okay now, sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult. Lots of people bring small fold-up stools or even air hammocks to make their line waits more comfortable. And if you can, bring your own pillows so the terrible hotel ones don't give you a stiff neck.
#4. Get assistance if you need it.
CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
#5. Boost your immunity.
If you pick up colds and viruses easily, practice
whatever faux-medical juju you normally do through echinacea, bee pollen,
Emergen-C, a B-12 shot, etc. I've never gotten sick from the Con but other people swear that
Con Crud is real. And you will be touching escalator railings, book covers,
photo op props and other surfaces recently contaminated by dozens or hundreds
of others.
#6. Eat well.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of donuts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood. I eat a lavish breakfast every morning and carry apples with me because I never know when I'm going to get trapped (or invited somewhere) and need to skip my next meal.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of donuts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood. I eat a lavish breakfast every morning and carry apples with me because I never know when I'm going to get trapped (or invited somewhere) and need to skip my next meal.
#7. Stay hydrated.
Con-going is thirsty work. And buying bottled water on
site adds up fast. Bring enough water to get you through the lines and the
exertion. As a hiker I follow the "If you're halfway through your water,
you're halfway through your hike" rule; consider the same for SDCC and
monitor how fast your water goes your first day. You'll understand how much
more you need the next day.
#8. Don't overdo the hedonism.
Obviously people like to party at SDCC. They like big ticketed parties, private hotel room parties, underground events and bar crawls between friends. But if you're serious about getting in a full Con, I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and wind up needing a nap. I've talked before about the year a friend was so hungover we missed all of Sunday, and another time a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
Obviously people like to party at SDCC. They like big ticketed parties, private hotel room parties, underground events and bar crawls between friends. But if you're serious about getting in a full Con, I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and wind up needing a nap. I've talked before about the year a friend was so hungover we missed all of Sunday, and another time a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
#9. Prepare mental and emotional resources.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling with someone whose every word is irritating you. Or maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for whatever reason. Make sure you have someone back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. I'm sure this all sounds very dramatic but it's really not that uncommon for someone to have a panic attack or feel emotionally isolated. Get help if you need it.
#10. Take breaks.
If you start feeling exhausted or it's just stopped being fun, cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room or film festival and isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming. Ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. If you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage for your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
#11. Take care of your feet.
Because you'll be walking a lot, you'll want to wear supportive footwear and have moleskin or band-aids just in case. If your cosplay involves uncomfortable footwear, make sure you give yourself some downtime. And remember that shuttles can cut down on your walking distances quite a bit.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling with someone whose every word is irritating you. Or maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for whatever reason. Make sure you have someone back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. I'm sure this all sounds very dramatic but it's really not that uncommon for someone to have a panic attack or feel emotionally isolated. Get help if you need it.
#10. Take breaks.
If you start feeling exhausted or it's just stopped being fun, cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room or film festival and isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming. Ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. If you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage for your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
#11. Take care of your feet.
Because you'll be walking a lot, you'll want to wear supportive footwear and have moleskin or band-aids just in case. If your cosplay involves uncomfortable footwear, make sure you give yourself some downtime. And remember that shuttles can cut down on your walking distances quite a bit.
#12. Get your sleep.
When I first started going to the Con, Younger Me would have various escapades all night, return home around 4 a.m., sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. And even then, it caught up with me by dinner. Now I try to be in bed no later than 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. I'm sure it all sounds highly exaggerated to first-timers. But the more you fortify yourself, the better a Con you'll have.
When I first started going to the Con, Younger Me would have various escapades all night, return home around 4 a.m., sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. And even then, it caught up with me by dinner. Now I try to be in bed no later than 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. I'm sure it all sounds highly exaggerated to first-timers. But the more you fortify yourself, the better a Con you'll have.
10 tips for staying healthy at Comic-Con
13 JULY 2016
Next week is going to be grueling - early mornings, late nights, long lines, and nefarious human germs lingering on every elevator button and exhibitor booth. (Sorry to be gross but it's true.) Obviously you want to keep yourself in prime physical condition, so I'm posting my usual advice on protecting yourself, mentally and physically.
Next week is going to be grueling - early mornings, late nights, long lines, and nefarious human germs lingering on every elevator button and exhibitor booth. (Sorry to be gross but it's true.) Obviously you want to keep yourself in prime physical condition, so I'm posting my usual advice on protecting yourself, mentally and physically.
#1. Take care of your feet.
You'll be walking a lot, which means you'll want to wear supportive footwear, bring moleskin and bandaids, and try not to do a lot of unnecessary walking. I wear high heels everywhere, but I still break out dorky supportive shoes for SDCC. It's so worth it. If your cosplay involves uncomfortable footwear, make sure you give yourself some downtime.
You'll be walking a lot, which means you'll want to wear supportive footwear, bring moleskin and bandaids, and try not to do a lot of unnecessary walking. I wear high heels everywhere, but I still break out dorky supportive shoes for SDCC. It's so worth it. If your cosplay involves uncomfortable footwear, make sure you give yourself some downtime.
#2. Bring drugs.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. A slipped disc or bad knee can flare into a major issue at Comic-Con. And even if you aren't normally prone to such trouble, sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult. Lots of people are bringing small fold-up stools or even pillows to make their line waits more comfortable.
#3. Get assistance if you need it.
Don't make things harder on yourself than they have to be. CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. A slipped disc or bad knee can flare into a major issue at Comic-Con. And even if you aren't normally prone to such trouble, sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult. Lots of people are bringing small fold-up stools or even pillows to make their line waits more comfortable.
#3. Get assistance if you need it.
Don't make things harder on yourself than they have to be. CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
#4. Boost your immunity.
If you're the first to catch colds and viruses, practice
whatever faux-medical juju you normally do through echinacea, bee pollen,
Emergen-C, a B-12 shot, etc. I've never gotten sick from the Con but other people swear that
Con Crud is real. And you will be touching escalator railings, book covers,
photo op props and other surfaces recently contaminated by dozens or hundreds
of others.
#5. Eat well.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of pop-tarts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood. I eat a lavish breakfast every morning, carry apples with me into the Con, and make time for a good meal at night, no matter what. But everyone has their tricks.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of pop-tarts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood. I eat a lavish breakfast every morning, carry apples with me into the Con, and make time for a good meal at night, no matter what. But everyone has their tricks.
#6. Stay hydrated.
Con-going is thirsty work. And buying bottled water on
site adds up fast. Bring enough water to get you through the lines and the
exertion. As a hiker I follow the "If you're halfway through your water,
you're halfway through your hike" rule; consider the same for SDCC and
monitor how fast your water goes your first day. You'll understand how much
more you need the next day.
#7. Be moderate in your debauchery.
Obviously people like to party at SDCC. For every "official" party you see listed, there are hundreds of private hotel room parties, unadvertised shows and underground events and bar crawls between friends. But if you're serious about getting in a full Con, I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and probably wind up collapsing at some point. I've talked before about the year a friend was so hungover we missed all of Sunday, and another time a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
Obviously people like to party at SDCC. For every "official" party you see listed, there are hundreds of private hotel room parties, unadvertised shows and underground events and bar crawls between friends. But if you're serious about getting in a full Con, I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and probably wind up collapsing at some point. I've talked before about the year a friend was so hungover we missed all of Sunday, and another time a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
#8. Prepare mental and emotional resources.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling in a group with someone whose every word is irritating you. Or maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for multiple reasons. Make sure you have friends back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. Comic-Con can be stressful for everyone and there is no shame in getting some help if you find yourself struggling.
#9. Take breaks.
Often you don't realize how tired or numbed out you are until it's too late. It's always a good idea to cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room at and just isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming. Tell your friends you need some time alone and ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. And if you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage - it'll be like the heavens opened up and poured relief down upon your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling in a group with someone whose every word is irritating you. Or maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for multiple reasons. Make sure you have friends back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. Comic-Con can be stressful for everyone and there is no shame in getting some help if you find yourself struggling.
#9. Take breaks.
Often you don't realize how tired or numbed out you are until it's too late. It's always a good idea to cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room at and just isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming. Tell your friends you need some time alone and ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. And if you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage - it'll be like the heavens opened up and poured relief down upon your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
#10. Get your rest.
When I first started going to SDCC, Younger Me would have various escapades all night, return home around 4, sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. And even then, it caught up with me. Now I make a point to be in bed no later than midnight or 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. If you've never been to San Diego Comic-Con before, you might think I'm exaggerating the demands it puts on you. But for those attendees who like to live the Con to the fullest, being in top shape isn't just important, it's required. I know you want to have a magical time next week. Take care of yourself and you probably will.
When I first started going to SDCC, Younger Me would have various escapades all night, return home around 4, sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. And even then, it caught up with me. Now I make a point to be in bed no later than midnight or 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. If you've never been to San Diego Comic-Con before, you might think I'm exaggerating the demands it puts on you. But for those attendees who like to live the Con to the fullest, being in top shape isn't just important, it's required. I know you want to have a magical time next week. Take care of yourself and you probably will.
Staying healthy at Comic-Con
2 JULY 2015
It's time for me to sound like your mom and lecture you on
taking care of yourself at Comic-Con. Let me say first that if you're going to
SDCC, you're obviously a wily sort who was able to navigate the online
sales and avoid certain pitfalls, so you probably can take care of yourself just fine.
But there are a few considerations specific to SDCC that people don't always
anticipate.
Take care of your feet.
You'll be walking a lot, which means you'll want to wear supportive footwear, bring moleskin and bandaids, and generally be judicious about how much optional foot travel you do. If you're a first-timer who's a vain little kitten, you might think you can just soldier through in high heels. But as someone who also wears heels everywhere, I still break out dorky supportive shoes for SDCC. It's worth it. Save the heels for your nocturnal adventures (and even then you might choose comfort over vanity.)
You'll be walking a lot, which means you'll want to wear supportive footwear, bring moleskin and bandaids, and generally be judicious about how much optional foot travel you do. If you're a first-timer who's a vain little kitten, you might think you can just soldier through in high heels. But as someone who also wears heels everywhere, I still break out dorky supportive shoes for SDCC. It's worth it. Save the heels for your nocturnal adventures (and even then you might choose comfort over vanity.)
Bring supplies to dull the pain.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. Troubled knees, feet, backs and hips can be pushed to the limit at Comic-Con. Even just sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult for some people. Commenters Ferd and Gail brought small fold-up stools to make their line waits more comfortable, which is a great idea.
Get assistance if you need it.
SDCC is a demanding experience; don't make things harder on yourself than they have to be. CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
Aspirin, ibuprofen and other painkillers can save your life at SDCC. If you're prone to headaches, the Exhibit Hall volume can do a number on your skull. Your plantar fasciitis can flare up or your hotel pillow can bother your neck. Troubled knees, feet, backs and hips can be pushed to the limit at Comic-Con. Even just sitting or standing in line for long periods can be difficult for some people. Commenters Ferd and Gail brought small fold-up stools to make their line waits more comfortable, which is a great idea.
Get assistance if you need it.
SDCC is a demanding experience; don't make things harder on yourself than they have to be. CCI provides a wealth of resources to help out attendees who need it. This includes rest areas, private areas for nursing mothers, a first aid team, wheelchairs, ASL interpreters and special seating for large events. If you have mobility issues or any other circumstance that could benefit from a helping hand, go ahead and ask for it.
Boost your immunity.
If you're the type to easily catch colds and viruses, practice whatever faux-medical juju you normally do through echinacea, bee pollen, Emergen-C, etc. I've never gotten sick from the Con but other people swear that Con Crud is real. And you will be touching escalator railings, book covers, photo ops, seats and other surfaces recently contaminated by dozens or hundreds of others.
Protect your skin.
You might be outside more than you think. It's not just Hall H that lines up outside - other rooms do too and there are lines for picking up your badge or getting an autograph or exclusives ticket that can post you out by the waterfront. You might also walk to the Gaslamp for lunch or go to the library or Horton Theatre for a panel. Wear sunscreen.
You might be outside more than you think. It's not just Hall H that lines up outside - other rooms do too and there are lines for picking up your badge or getting an autograph or exclusives ticket that can post you out by the waterfront. You might also walk to the Gaslamp for lunch or go to the library or Horton Theatre for a panel. Wear sunscreen.
Protect everything.
People hook up at Comic-Con all the time. It happens. And often it happens late at night when your hotel gift shop is closed, you have no idea where the nearest pharmacy is, and you're too tired to go on a hunt. So if there's even the teeniest sub-atomic particle of a chance you'd be open to meeting someone, bring condoms. There are some souvenirs you don't want to bring home from SDCC.
People hook up at Comic-Con all the time. It happens. And often it happens late at night when your hotel gift shop is closed, you have no idea where the nearest pharmacy is, and you're too tired to go on a hunt. So if there's even the teeniest sub-atomic particle of a chance you'd be open to meeting someone, bring condoms. There are some souvenirs you don't want to bring home from SDCC.
Eat well.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of pop-tarts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood.
Everyone has their tricks - some people grab a huge sub at the all-night Subway and keep it in their bag; others bring sandwiches and cookies into the Con with them. Winging it means you'll need to rely on the Exhibit Hall food court (not recommended) or venture out - which can mean losing hours as you cross the street, find a restaurant, put your name on a list and then wait to be seated. Personally I eat a lavish breakfast every morning, then carry apples and granola bars with me into the Con. That way I never have to choose between a panel line and my growling stomach a few hours later. And I always make time for a good meal at night, no matter what.
You can see a few suggestions in my eating well post last year. And of course keep in mind SDCC's Restaurant Guide.
Some people like to eat lightly at SDCC; others feel powered by eating luxurious monster meals. In general, try to eat well. Don't skip a lot of meals. Don't live off a box of pop-tarts in your room. You're going to undergo a physically draining and sometimes emotionally frustrating experience, so set yourself up to be energized and in a good mood.
Everyone has their tricks - some people grab a huge sub at the all-night Subway and keep it in their bag; others bring sandwiches and cookies into the Con with them. Winging it means you'll need to rely on the Exhibit Hall food court (not recommended) or venture out - which can mean losing hours as you cross the street, find a restaurant, put your name on a list and then wait to be seated. Personally I eat a lavish breakfast every morning, then carry apples and granola bars with me into the Con. That way I never have to choose between a panel line and my growling stomach a few hours later. And I always make time for a good meal at night, no matter what.
You can see a few suggestions in my eating well post last year. And of course keep in mind SDCC's Restaurant Guide.
Stay hydrated.
I know, how obvious. But Con-going is thirsty work. Attendees may not realize dehydrating it is to be doing all that walking. And buying bottled water on site adds up fast. Bring enough water to get you through the lines and the exertion. As a hiker I follow the "If you're halfway through your water, you're halfway through your hike" rule; consider the same for SDCC and monitor how fast your water goes your first day. You'll understand how much more you need the next day.
I know, how obvious. But Con-going is thirsty work. Attendees may not realize dehydrating it is to be doing all that walking. And buying bottled water on site adds up fast. Bring enough water to get you through the lines and the exertion. As a hiker I follow the "If you're halfway through your water, you're halfway through your hike" rule; consider the same for SDCC and monitor how fast your water goes your first day. You'll understand how much more you need the next day.
Be moderate in your debauchery.
Obviously the nightlife at SDCC is rich with potential. And for every "official" party you see listed, there are hundreds of private hotel room parties, unadvertised shows and underground events and bar crawls between friends. It seems like an invitation to go wild. But I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and probably wind up collapsing at some point and missing a lot of the Con.
And it can impact your friends. I had a friend who was so viciously hungover one Sunday morning that she wound up in the convention center's first aid area, and we had to leave at 10:30. We missed the entire last day of the Con. Another year a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him on various deserted streets until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
Obviously the nightlife at SDCC is rich with potential. And for every "official" party you see listed, there are hundreds of private hotel room parties, unadvertised shows and underground events and bar crawls between friends. It seems like an invitation to go wild. But I'd caution against overindulging. Even if you can pull off all-nighters at home without feeling much pain, SDCC is a much more demanding experience. You'll be irritable and tired and probably wind up collapsing at some point and missing a lot of the Con.
And it can impact your friends. I had a friend who was so viciously hungover one Sunday morning that she wound up in the convention center's first aid area, and we had to leave at 10:30. We missed the entire last day of the Con. Another year a friend's friend got so high that he got lost and we were looking for him on various deserted streets until 3 a.m. It's just not worth it. Save your chemical excesses for home so you can enjoy the Con to the fullest.
Prepare mental and emotional resources.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling in a group with someone who's working your last nerve. Maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for multiple reasons. Make sure you have friends back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. Comic-Con can be stressful for everyone and there is no shame in getting some help if you find yourself struggling.
Take a break.
Often you don't realize how overwhelmed you are until it's too late. It's always a good idea to cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room at the Omni and just isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming at your hotel. Go to the beach. Tell your friends you need some time alone and ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. And if you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage - it'll be like the heavens opened up and poured relief down upon your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
Maybe you're sensitive to crowds and noise. Maybe you're traveling in a group with someone who's working your last nerve. Maybe the Con isn't at all what you expected and you're on the verge of tears for multiple reasons. Make sure you have friends back home you can call and unload on. If you're in therapeutic care and you think the Con might push your buttons, see ahead of time if you can call your therapist. Bring any meds you need. Look up nearby meetings if you're in recovery. Comic-Con can be stressful for everyone and there is no shame in getting some help if you find yourself struggling.
Take a break.
Often you don't realize how overwhelmed you are until it's too late. It's always a good idea to cut yourself off from the chaos for a bit. Go hang out in the dark Playback Room at the Omni and just isolate for an hour or two. Go swimming at your hotel. Go to the beach. Tell your friends you need some time alone and ask everyone to let you have the hotel room to yourself for a bit. And if you've got some cash to burn, schedule a massage - it'll be like the heavens opened up and poured relief down upon your stiff Comic-Con muscles.
Get your rest.
When I first started going to SDCC, I would have various escapades all night, return home around 4, sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. It caught up with me quick. Now I make a point to be in bed no later than midnight or 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously your attitude on this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. If you've never been to San Diego Comic-Con before, you might think I'm exaggerating the demands it puts on you. But for those attendees who like to live the Con to the fullest, being in top shape isn't just important, it's required. I know you want to have a magical time next week. Take care of yourself and you probably will.
When I first started going to SDCC, I would have various escapades all night, return home around 4, sleep for 3 hours and bounce out of bed ready for the day. It caught up with me quick. Now I make a point to be in bed no later than midnight or 1 a.m. If I'm going to be out super late, I nap first. Obviously your attitude on this depends on why you're at the Con - if you're there to carouse all night, have at it. But if you're there to actually do panels and compete in gaming tournaments and explore the activities, you'll want to be fairly peppy.
And that's my wellness advice. If you've never been to San Diego Comic-Con before, you might think I'm exaggerating the demands it puts on you. But for those attendees who like to live the Con to the fullest, being in top shape isn't just important, it's required. I know you want to have a magical time next week. Take care of yourself and you probably will.
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