With the impending holidays, it’s natural to feel displaced from the expected holiday spirits. Youthful holiday joy often turns to dread for the responsibilities that lie in everything from mile-long to-do lists to gift-giving bonanzas. Sometimes, especially towards the end of this holiday season, it feels impossible to rekindle that holiday joy you once had. But fear not! We have a couple of solutions that are easier than one might think to restart that holiday flame.

1. Wear a scarf

A scarf provides both comfort and warmth during the chilly holiday season, creating a feeling of coziness that combats the biting cold. In a way, wrapping yourself in a warm scarf can make you feel more connected to seasonal celebrations, whether you’re at a family gathering, holiday market, or on a winter stroll, a scarf is a festive and stylish way to keep warm throughout the season.

Another wonderful thing about the scarf is that they come in all colors and aesthetics—you can wrap yourself in a neutral cream-colored scarf or even a rainbow one. Lastly, the functionality of the scarf makes it a perfect element of your outfit; the scarf wraps flawlessly around your neck and shoulders, and acts as a perfect deflector for the snow—especially if someone throws a snowball at you! 

2. Go on a Hike

The bustling business of holiday preparations can often be stalled by simply standing outside for some fresh air. An opportunity to pause and reconnect can come from anything from a simple stroll through the neighborhood or a full blown walk in the woods when it’s snowing. The feeling of nature around you has been proven to be the perfect solution to destress.

Holiday stress can slip away in favor of the fresh sights and smells of nature. The calming sounds of your shoes tapping the ground or even a holiday tune have the ability to. clear the mind of cluttered thoughts. There is a simplicity outside in nature where demands are far less, something that often makes people feel relieved. Wrapping yourself in one of those fun scarfs and slipping on your favorite coat to keep warm can be the perfect short break. Sometimes, all you need to recoup is a pair of shoes and an open path!

3. Watch Nostalgic Festive Films

There is a comfort so unique in watching a nostalgic movie. Curling up to put on a holiday favorite, no matter which one, has the power to take your mind off of winter stress. Generational family favorites, your favorite childhood animation, or a stereotypical hallmark film that evokes joy is the perfect way to rekindle magical memories within you and your loved ones. They can transport us back to a time when holiday worries were nonexistent. A time when thoughts were filled with nights asleep on the couch with a movie or joy over heartfelt traditions.

These movies are filled with themes of connection, love, and the joy of gift-giving which refills the holiday with those nostalgic points. Stress from finals and near-adult responsibilities slip away in favor of these holiday moments of bliss if you feel that familiar anxiety from any holiday stressors, a nostalgic movie may be the perfect fix. You put one on in the background of gift-wrapping or as you warm up in a fluffy blanket with your friends. It may be the perfect thing to de-stress during a time of joy and kindness. 

4. Get in the kitchen and bake

Along with stepping outside or wrapping yourself up on the couch for a movie, baking has the ability to ground you in a similar way. Turning on one of those holiday movies or slipping on a holiday song is the perfect companion whether your baking solo or with those you love. Baking can be as simple as rolling pre-made dough into balls for the oven or as complicated as a traditional cultural holiday favorite. No matter what you’re baking, you can feel comfort from it.

The simple acts enjoyed in the kitchen have the ability to slow your mind and remove the busy thoughts that mind inhabit it. The joy that comes from seeing the process from beginning to end brings a sense of instant gratification. Perfecting recipes, creating messes, and filling your home with sweet smells sense waves of nostalgia and connection. You can create new memories with those you love or cherish the ones from the past. Either way, this season, roll up your sleeves and step into the kitchen to help revive that holiday spirit.

5. Spend time with loved ones

 Spending time with loved ones may sound basic, but it can be a powerful way to rekindle the holiday spirit. There’s a special warmth in gathering around the dinner table, sharing laughter, and creating lasting memories; it’s in these moments that the true meaning of the holidays often shines through. However, for many, the holiday season can also bring feelings of loss and loneliness. The absence of loved ones, especially around the holidays, can create a deep, palpable void. There’s no easy fix, no “five steps” to mend the ache left by someone’s departure, but it’s important to honor that grief rather than suppress it. Fr. Keith’s Blue Christmas mass offers a way to acknowledge the pain, creating a space for reflection and healing, while helping to transform sorrow into a collective experience of remembrance and support.

As mentioned, Fr. Keith recently hosted a Blue Christmas Mass at his parish. This fairly new tradition offers a space for those struggling with grief and loss during the holiday season to honor their loved ones. Originating in the 1990s, Blue Christmas services acknowledge that the holidays can be a difficult time for many, filled with sadness, loneliness, and pain.

While not unique to the Episcopal Church, the service is practiced across various Christian denominations. The mass features quiet, reflective readings, music, and prayers that provide comfort, including the poignant Jewish prayer “We Remember Them.” Attendees are invited to light candles in remembrance of loved ones and share their stories afterward in a supportive, communal environment. Father Kieth’s message emphasizes that joy and sorrow can coexist, encouraging people to embrace both emotions and find peace in moments of quiet reflection amidst the holiday rush.

No matter which option you choose, the most important thing is to keep a positive attitude and do your best to appreciate the the traditions, the festivities, the companionship, or the peacefulness that can only be found this time of year.

Have a great break, and we’ll see you in the new year!