When thinking of the holidays, many people’s minds will often go to enjoying festivities with family or having a grand feast with those people they love the most. Countless people around the world are celebrating holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving alongside beloved family and friends, but some people do not have a caring community to bring them up. Unfortunately, there are people worldwide who do not have the opportunity to spend this time of year with loved ones. So, how can they learn not to feel lonely during the midst of such a popular season?
“When you are alone, you can have time for yourself and strengthen your relationship with God. You can have time to heal yourself if you have depression or anxiety,” states freshman Maddie Dang.
Most holidays are celebrations often spent with others, but this time can also just be spent alone. It is important for people to care for those around them, but it is even more important for them to care for themselves first. The holidays are joyful times for many people, so this tranquil energy can be used for self-healing and self-love. This time can also be used to reflect religiously, especially during religious holidays like Hanukkah and Christmas. The holidays can be spent nurturing a relationship with religion and being surrounded with comforters such as God or Allah.
When people enjoy holiday festivities on their own, it can sometimes be just as fun as with others. It can allow room for independence with a little bit of responsibility.
“Decorating your house, watching fun holiday movies,” continues Dang, “surround yourself with things you love, not negativity.”
Sometimes, holidays can be super busy and crowded, with the coming of Christmas shopping or planning vacations. Life can be more peaceful and more meditative when people have the chance to do things on their own. It can give them their own freedom with no limitations, meaning no negativity. Their boundaries are only ones set by themselvesParticipating in the merriment of holidays can bring joyful feelings and take away negativity. It can also distract people from other stresses and the business of life.
“Know who you are, build self care routines, practice gratitude for yourself, prioritize self compassion,” Dang emphasizes.
Self -love shouldn’t just be practiced during holidays, but should also be practiced all of the time. The holidays are just a reminder for people to show themselves gratitude and appreciate themselves and their unique journey through life. Learning to be okay with being alone can be hard, but with some holiday cheer and positive self-reflection, things can become easier.
