5 Simple Ways to Combat Loneliness During the Holidays
5 Simple Ways to Combat Loneliness During the
Holidays
The holiday
season is often depicted as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Yet,
for many people, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, especially for those
who may be grieving, separated from family, or navigating difficult life
changes. If you find yourself feeling alone this holiday season, here are five
simple yet effective strategies to lift your spirits and create meaningful
moments of connection.
1. Reach
Out and Make Social Plans (Even if They’re Virtual)
Connecting with
others, even briefly, can make a big difference in countering loneliness.
Research has shown that social interactions boost serotonin and oxytocin, two
hormones that support emotional well-being. Whether you’re meeting friends in
person, scheduling a video call, or joining an online community, reaching out
can bring a sense of companionship and joy.
Tip: Plan a virtual coffee (or tea) date, or join a
group video chat with family or friends. You can also explore community groups
or local events that provide opportunities to connect with new people during
the season.
I FaceTime or
use What’s App with family members, I won’t see in person. That’s what our
family and friends did during Covid. That’s also how I began teaching
consistent yoga classes online. It’s nice
to connect any way you can.
2. Volunteer
and Spread Kindness
Helping others
is a powerful way to feel connected, boost mood, and find purpose. Studies show
that engaging in acts of kindness, like volunteering, can reduce loneliness and
increase happiness by focusing on others. Many organizations, especially during
the holidays, need extra help, and volunteering can introduce you to people who
share similar values.
Tip: Reach out to local charities, food banks, or
shelters, and see if they need help. Even small gestures—like baking treats for
neighbors or helping a friend with holiday errands—can brighten someone else’s
day and yours, too.
3. Start
a New Tradition
Holidays can
feel empty when they remind us of the past, especially if traditions involved
loved ones who are no longer with us. Creating new traditions can help create a
sense of belonging and renewal. Whether it’s as simple as baking cookies,
watching a favorite holiday movie, or taking a winter walk, starting something
new can bring a sense of joy to the season.
Tip: Find an activity that brings you joy and make it
a tradition. Whether you invite others to join or enjoy it solo, these little
rituals can bring warmth and meaning to your holidays year after year.
4. Practice
Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
The holiday
season can be emotionally intense, and self-compassion can help ease feelings
of loneliness. Self-compassion means treating yourself with kindness, just as
you would a friend. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, journaling,
or simply taking a quiet walk, can also reduce stress and ground you in the
present moment.
Tip: Try a five-minute guided meditation or write in a
gratitude journal each morning. Reflecting on even small positives can be a
powerful way to combat loneliness and shift your focus to the good things
around you.
5. Nourish
Yourself with Comforting, Nutritious Foods
Food and mood
are closely linked. Choosing nutritious foods that support mental health can be
especially beneficial when dealing with loneliness. Omega-3-rich foods, like
salmon or walnuts, and foods high in magnesium, like dark leafy greens and
nuts, are known to boost mood and support emotional well-being.
Tip: Plan a few comforting, healthy meals that you
enjoy. Try a new recipe, perhaps incorporating mood-boosting foods like berries
🫐(I call “brain berries”), leafy
greens, or dark chocolate. A simple, nourishing meal can be an act of self-care
and a reminder to take good care of yourself this season.
Embrace
Connection, Compassion, and Small Joys
Loneliness is a
complex emotion, and during the holidays, it can feel especially overwhelming.
Remember that feeling lonely does not mean you are alone. By taking small steps
toward connection, kindness, and self-compassion, you can create meaningful moments
that bring warmth and comfort to your holiday season.
While the
holiday season might look different this year, practicing kindness toward
yourself and others can make this time meaningful, even in the smallest ways.
Check out some
of my videos to know “YOU’RE NOT ALONE” and that YOU’RE LOVED VERY MUCH!!! 😊😊😊❤️❤️❤️
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Dr.
Tanya Gold is a medical doctor and yoga teacher, who specializes in natural
medicine, and functional medicine. She teaches yoga online and at the
YMCA.
Dr.
Gold’s Optimal Living Institute is her holistic
medical center, dedicated
to getting people WELL Long Term.
7
Habits of Extremely Happy People is a book she
wrote teaching people how to create their happiness from within. It's available in hard copy and audio.
Dr.
Gold has been in practice for over 20 years.
Upcoming
Events with Dr. Gold’s Optimal Living Institute
Longevity Fest 2025 Discover Hacks to living a longer life. Register here
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