Given that we are still in the midst of a global pandemic, our new normal has greatly affected us in terms of our normal routines, and for some bringing on moods of anxiety and hopelessness as it may feel as though we are stuck functioning indoors. However, this is not to say that positivity and joy can’t be found in our new way of living as exciting traditions can be formed from celebrating birthdays to our slew of holidays that come around during the months of October-December. There are a myriad of ways to cope and heal through positivity through this difficult time we are facing. Many can be found within our own homes or through daily everyday actions and hobbies such as:

Decorating Your Home or Living Area

Exercising your creative freedom through the art of decorating can very much help in relieving built up tensions that may have arised from staying in so long. Instead of dreading the everyday cycle of remaining inside, painting your thoughts and feelings on a canvas can not only liven up your living space but bring joy and serenity to your inner-self. Even collaborating with family members or roommates on creating handmade holiday projects can invoke a sense of support and resonation with one another that will ultimately boost overall comfort and security.

Hosting Virtual Support Groups With Friends and Family

During this difficult time, staying in touch with those closest to us has proved to be harder than we thought as for many, our support systems feel as though they are waning. However, through celebration of certain holiday’s and speaking with one another about our current thoughts and emotions can make all the difference in not feeling as isolated as before. With the rise of video chatting and other technological options for communicating, virtual celebrations are a fun way to keep celebrations alive while creating new traditions as well.

Embrace Solitude Through Productivity

Prior to the events of the pandemic and even currently, do you ever think to yourself, “I wish I could get that done” or “I wish I had time for this”? With holidays coming up around the corner, many schools and places of work are bound to have days off which can leave room for devotion to your goals and overall well being. Whether it’s freely dancing around to music in your bedroom or doing some volunteer work or even just cleaning up your apartment, taking this time of rest as an opportunity to grow through productivity can greatly aid in feeling a sense of joy and fulfillment in our new normal.

Just because we are subject to changing our regularly scheduled holiday routines due to a shift in societal necessities, does not mean that we have to sacrifice our mental well being and happiness that we feel during these times. We know that it can be difficult to acclimate to change when all may feel lost, but taking small steps and enjoying the little things in life can make it feel as though we are back inside our comfort zones.