Embrace the Holiday Spirit: Activities for Every Occasion

 

The holidays start earlier and earlier every year. Garlands are hung in stores, and Christmas ware is put on shelves the day after Halloween.  That doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the holidays. Here are some simple activities that can be fun with family or alone, give you exercise, or bring out your creative side.

Family Activities

1. Decorating the Home: This activity brings families together to create a festive atmosphere, fostering a sense of unity and joy. You can make your ornaments or garlands!
2. Baking Holiday Cookies: Baking together allows family members to bond over shared recipes and create delicious treats to enjoy and share. It’s also a great way to teach the next generation.
3. 3. Watching Holiday Movies or Live Shows: Gathering to watch classic holiday films can create lasting memories and evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the season. It’s a Wonderful Life, Elf, and Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer are still favorites. The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall are always on my list.
4. Building a Snowman: If you live in a snowy area like New York, building a snowman is a fun, collaborative activity that brings laughter and creativity. Watch out for very hard ice snowballs!
5. Holiday Crafting: Making ornaments or holiday cards together encourages creativity and provides a personal touch to holiday decorations and gifts. I cherish handmade ornaments and still hang the popsicle stick ornament the 3-year-old made over 30 years ago.

Personal or Solo Activities

1. Reading a Holiday-Themed Book: Curling up with a good book can provide a personal escape into the magic and wonder of the holiday season. The Polar Express, The Man Who Invented Christmas, and A Christmas Carol are favorites.
2. Writing in a Gratitude Journal: Reflecting on what you’re thankful for can enhance your appreciation for the season and promote a positive mindset. Review old holiday journal entries if this isn’t your first journal.
3. Taking a Winter Walk: Enjoying a peaceful walk in nature can help you connect with the beauty of the season and find tranquility. It is peaceful to just walk around your block in the city at that time of year.
4. Listening to Holiday Music: Creating a personal playlist of holiday tunes can lift your spirits and immerse you in the festive atmosphere. Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” is still popular.
5. DIY Holiday Decorations: Crafting your decorations can be a fulfilling way to express creativity and personalize your space. Use scraps or unwanted things around the house to personalize it.

 

 

Relaxing Activities

1. Sipping Hot Cocoa by the Fireplace: This cozy activity invites relaxation and warmth, perfect for unwinding during the holiday hustle. Great for children, and I add marshmallows or a peppermint stick.
2. Meditation or Yoga: Practicing mindfulness or gentle yoga can help reduce stress and promote inner peace during the busy holiday season. You might do this at midnight, but it’s a great destresser.
3. Taking a Warm Bath with Essential Oils: A soothing bath can provide a moment of calm and rejuvenation amidst holiday preparations. If you don’t have a bathtub, use calming oils in the shower.
4. Watching the Snowfall: Simply observing the beauty of falling snow can be a meditative experience that brings a sense of wonder and peace. Do it alone or with children – tell stories while you watch.
5. Napping with a Cozy Blanket: Taking a short nap can recharge your energy and provide a comforting break from holiday activities. I use a quilt that I crocheted as a teenager.

Religious Activities

1. Attending a Midnight Mass or Service: Participating in a religious service can deepen your spiritual connection and celebrate the true meaning of the holiday. Christmas is a meaningful, religious time of year, and attending service honors the reasons for the holiday.
2. 2. Lighting Advent Candles: This tradition can help you reflect on the spiritual aspects of the season and prepare your heart for the celebrations. Nice cinnamon or pine-scented soy candles add a good holiday touch.
3. Reading Religious Texts or Stories: Engaging with sacred texts or stories can provide inspiration and remind you of the holiday’s spiritual significance. Most stories are word-of-mouth and will last for many years.
4. Participating in a Nativity Play: Acting in or watching a nativity play can bring the holiday story to life and foster community. Give your grandchildren or an underserved child a central role. You can play Mary!
5. Volunteering at a Religious Charity: Giving back through volunteer work can embody the spirit of compassion and generosity central to many holiday traditions. Volunteering teaches children and adults alike the giving-back aspect of the holidays.

These activities can help you embrace the spirit of the holiday season, whether through family bonding, personal reflection, relaxation, or spiritual connection.