If you’re feeling lonely over the holiday break, start doing these 8 things every day

Jeanette Brown by Jeanette Brown | October 14, 2024, 8:47 pm

Feeling alone during the holidays can be tough.

It’s a time when you’re supposed to be surrounded by love and warmth, yet you find yourself feeling isolated.

But, it doesn’t have to be this way. There are things you can do every day to help ease that loneliness and bring a little joy into your life – because you deserve it.

In this article, I’m going to share some simple, but effective steps you can take to combat those holiday blues.

It’s easier than you think!

1) Stay connected

It’s easy to feel isolated during the holiday break, especially when you’re not surrounded by family or friends.

But here’s the thing – we live in a digital era. Thanks to technology, you can stay connected with your loved ones, even from a distance.

Video calls, text messages, social media – all of these are great ways to stay in touch. You can even organize virtual gatherings or play online games together. It’s about making an effort to maintain those connections.

Seeing a friendly face or hearing a familiar voice can make a world of difference when you’re feeling alone. So use the tools at your disposal and reach out to those you care about.

Remember, it’s okay to tell them if you’re feeling lonely – chances are, they’ll appreciate your honesty and do their best to provide some comfort and company.

Being alone doesn’t necessarily mean being lonely. And staying connected with others can certainly help alleviate those feelings of isolation.

2) Get moving

When you’re feeling low, it’s easy to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. But did you know that physical activity can actually boost your mood?

Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. Whether it’s going for a brisk walk, doing some yoga, or dancing around in your living room – getting your body moving can help to alleviate feelings of sadness and loneliness.

Plus, regular exercise has a host of other health benefits too. It helps to reduce stress, improve sleep quality and increase energy levels. With these benefits, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any feelings of loneliness head-on.

So slip into some comfortable clothes, put on your favorite music, and get moving! Your body – and mind – will thank you for it.

3) Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is all about living in the present and fully engaging with your surroundings. It’s a natural antidote to feelings of isolation, as it encourages you to focus on the here and now rather than dwelling on past or future concerns.

Try this: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and simply focus on your breathing. Notice the feeling of the air entering and leaving your body. If your mind starts to wander, gently bring it back to your breath.

This simple exercise can help you feel more connected to the world around you. It can also reduce stress and anxiety, which often accompany feelings of loneliness.

Mindfulness doesn’t have to be limited to meditation either. You can practice it while eating, walking, or even washing the dishes. The key is to fully engage with whatever you’re doing at that moment.

Practicing mindfulness every day can make a big difference in how you perceive and handle feelings of loneliness. So give it a try – you might be surprised at how beneficial it can be!

4) Volunteer your time

Contributing to something bigger than ourselves can be a powerful way to combat feelings of loneliness. It gives us a sense of purpose and helps us to feel connected to our community.

Look for local charities or organizations that could use a helping hand. It could be anything from helping at a food bank to walking dogs at a local shelter.

Not only will you be doing something good for others, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people and form meaningful connections.

So, if you’re feeling lonely, consider giving back to your community. It’s a win-win situation – you help others, and in return, you help yourself too.

5) Be kind to yourself

Being alone during the holidays can stir up a lot of emotions. It’s okay to feel sad, it’s okay to miss your loved ones, and it’s okay to feel lonely.

The important thing is to be kind to yourself during these times.

Treat yourself the way you would treat a dear friend who is going through a tough time. Cook your favorite meal, watch your favorite movie, or simply take a warm, relaxing bath. Do whatever it is that makes you feel good.

Remember, it’s not selfish to prioritize your own happiness and well-being. You’re just as deserving of care and kindness as anyone else.

So be gentle with yourself. Acknowledge your feelings, but also remind yourself that it’s okay to seek joy and comfort. You are not alone in this, and things will get better.

6) Create new traditions

Creating new traditions doesn’t necessarily mean forgetting the old ones. It’s about finding joy and comfort in your current situation. It can be anything – a movie marathon, a festive DIY project, or even a peaceful walk in the park.

Starting your own traditions gives you something to look forward to and can make the holiday season feel less lonely and more personal. It’s about making the holidays your own, in a way that brings you joy.

7) Reach out to others who might be feeling lonely too

Just as you might be feeling lonely, there are others out there feeling the same way. A simple act of reaching out can make a world of difference, both for you and for them.

Send a message to a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Call your elderly neighbor who might be spending the holidays alone. Join online groups or forums where people share their experiences and support each other.

By reaching out, you’re not only helping others feel less alone, but you also remind yourself that you’re not alone in this. You’re part of a community, and together, you can support each other through the tough times.

So don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s a small act with a big impact, and it’s a step towards making the holiday season a little less lonely for everyone.

8) Remember, it’s okay to seek help

If your feelings of loneliness become too overwhelming, it’s important to know that it’s okay to seek professional help. Therapists and counselors are there to provide support and can help you navigate through these difficult emotions.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional if you find yourself struggling. It’s not a sign of weakness, but rather a step towards taking control of your well-being.

Your feelings are valid, and you don’t have to face them alone. Help is available, and it’s okay to ask for it.

Final thoughts: Embrace your solitude

Loneliness can be a challenging emotion to navigate, especially during the holiday season. But remember, it’s okay to be alone.

In fact, renowned philosopher Paul Tillich once said, “Loneliness expresses the pain of being alone and solitude expresses the glory of being alone.”

Being alone can be a time of self-discovery and growth. It gives us the opportunity to tune into our thoughts and emotions, to understand ourselves better.

So rather than viewing it as something negative, try to see the beauty in solitude. Use this time to connect with yourself, to pursue your interests, and to create new experiences.

Remember to be kind to yourself and reach out when things get tough. You’re not alone in this journey.

And always remember that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. After all, we’re all human, and we’re all in this together.

Take a deep breath, embrace the solitude, and know that you have the strength to navigate this journey.