Navigating Loneliness: Caring for Yourself Over the Holidays
The holiday season is often portrayed (in movies and on social media) as the brightest time of year, but for many, it can bring feelings of loneliness, grief, and sadness. If you’re spending the holidays alone, or feel alone when surrounded by others, navigating these emotions can feel overwhelming. However, this time can also be an opportunity to care for yourself in meaningful ways. This article will explore how you can honor your feelings, create your own traditions, and embrace self-kindness during this season.
Honoring Your Feelings
First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge and validate whatever emotions arise during the holidays. You don’t have to “stay positive” if it doesn’t feel authentic. Give yourself permission to feel the full spectrum of emotions - whether it’s grief, anger, loneliness, or even joy.
Affirmation: “It’s okay to feel this way. My emotions are valid.”
Journaling can be a helpful tool to process what you’re experiencing. Write about what you’re feeling and what you need at this moment. This practice can offer clarity and relief while serving as a gentle reminder that you are not alone in navigating these big emotions.
Creating Your Own Traditions
When traditional holiday celebrations don’t align with your current reality, it’s an opportunity to create your own rituals and routines. Here are a few ideas:
Plan a Special Meal: Cook or order your favorite dishes and set the table with care. Allow yourself to savor the moment, knowing you deserve this nourishment.
Curate a Cozy Atmosphere: Light a candle, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, and watch your favorite movie or show. Embrace the comfort of being present in your space.
Engage in a Meaningful Activity: This could be crafting (here are 50 ideas), baking, taking a walk in nature, or listening to music that soothes your soul.
Making the holidays your own can help you focus on what brings you joy and peace rather than adhering to societal expectations.
Taking Breaks from Social Media
Social media can amplify feelings of loneliness during the holidays. Remember, what you see online is a highlight reel and not the full story. Even those surrounded by friends and family may be experiencing their own struggles.
Consider taking a break from social media to focus on your own moments. Use this time to reconnect with yourself, read a book, or engage in an activity that feels restorative. This intentional pause can reduce comparisons and help you stay grounded.
Practicing Rest and Self-Compassion
Holidays often come with societal pressure to be busy, productive, or festive. But it’s okay to spend this time resting and recharging in ways that feel good to you.
Here are some ideas to prioritize rest:
Sleep in and let your body dictate the pace of your day.
Spend time journaling or meditating.
Move your body gently, whether through yoga, stretching, or a walk.
Simply do nothing, and remind yourself that rest is productive.
Be kind to yourself as you navigate this time. Remind yourself, “It’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. I’m doing the best I can.”
Connecting with Community Support
If you find yourself needing additional support, consider reaching out to a therapist or joining a support group. Connecting with others who understand can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. If you live in NY or NJ, Amanda Sacks offers individual therapy sessions that can help you navigate this season and beyond. Additionally, We All Feel support circles provide an online space for community and connection.
Remembering Your Strength
Wherever you are in your journey, take a moment to be proud of yourself. Navigating loneliness, grief, and other emotions during the holidays takes immense courage. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a dear friend.
This holiday season, remind yourself: “I am worthy of care and love, even from myself.” Lean into treating yourself to something special, and know it’s okay to make the holidays what you need them to be. Save this article for moments when you need comfort, and consider sharing it with someone else who might benefit from these reminders.
xoxo,
Amanda
