It’s the most wonderful time of the year… Unless you’re spending it alone, which can make the holiday season feel like the loneliest time of year. Add that to rising stress levels, and it can feel very overwhelming.
But don’t abandon all of that holiday hope just yet! Whether you’re spending the season alone by choice or chance, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some fun ways to sprinkle some yuletide cheer into your holiday solo sesh.
Fun self-care ideas for spending the holidays alone
Make (or buy) yourself a 5-star meal
One of the best parts of the holiday season is all the delicious food! But just because you’re dining alone doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the festive flavors. And the best part? You get to make (or order) exactly what you want – just for yourself – without worrying about accommodating others’ dietary needs or preferences.
So go ahead – plan that 5-star menu and go all out! Not a chef? No problem! Order your favorite gourmet meals from a food service delivery option or a local restaurant. Just be sure to check their holiday hours and order ahead of time.
Buy a bottle of champagne or other favorite drink
Every 5-star meal needs a quality beverage to pair with it. So go ahead and splurge on that bottle of champagne! Or check out these non-alcoholic options that work well with different types of cuisines.
Take a nature walk
There’s nothing better than a relaxing walk outside after a big meal to get moving and prevent post-meal bloating. And it’s good for you! Recent studies show that spending time in nature can lower our stress hormones, improve awareness, and help us feel more appreciative in general.
This is also a great opportunity to notice the things you might typically ignore. With our busy lifestyles, we’re so caught up in our own heads–focused on where to go and what to do next– that we may fail to stop and notice the beauty around us.
So, take some time to practice a little mindfulness as you walk: notice the sound of the birds chirping in the trees and the traffic passing by. Feel the wind against your cheeks or the warmth of the sunlight on your face. If you live in a northern state, notice the cold chill or the sound of snow crunching under your feet.
You could even try engaging your other senses by noting what you can see, feel, touch, or even taste–such as a snowflake on your tongue.
Curl up with a cozy book or movie
After that refreshing walk, it’s time to head back inside for some ultimate relaxation!
Being alone for the holidays means you’ll have plenty of time to catch up on your TBR list or Netflix show that you haven’t had time for all year. Check out your local library’s holiday display or browse online for lists of holiday favorites. Or, to avoid being triggered by all that festive togetherness, you might want to stick with your tried-and-true favorite genres–or try something new from one of the published bestseller lists.
Laze in luxury loungewear
Why not get dressed up when you’re spending the holidays alone? You’ll need something soft to relax in when you’re sprawled out by the fireplace with your favorite book, or chilling on the sofa engrossed in the newest show on TV.
So swap those ratty old pajamas for a soft set (or two!) of luxury loungewear. You’ll thank yourself later when there’s less laundry to do.
Pamper yourself with products
Give yourself the spa treatment at home by pampering yourself with your favorite winter products that help combat dry skin: creams, face masks, oils, and cuticle treatments.
And don’t forget about moisturizer for those often-overlooked areas like your feet, elbows and of course, your intimate skin. The Mia Vita™ Gel is a great, natural moisturizer for those who experience dryness or other discomfort in the vulvar area.
Spending the holidays alone can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be! Try out the tips above, take time for some self-care, and take advantage of the time alone to relax, recuperate, and enjoy yourself!