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While numerous people go home for holidays, others spend theirs alone. Some people find it daunting to go home for Thanksgiving because it’s too expensive, far, having a conflicting schedule, or they don’t get along with some of their family members. In 2020, a significant number of people are likely not to travel for Thanksgiving because of the covid-19 pandemic. Spending Thanksgiving alone has its challenges, mostly if you are used to spending the holiday with your loved ones.
Despite being a holiday, Thanksgiving is also a frame of mind. As the title suggests, the holiday should be all about expressing gratitude. If you spend Thanksgiving alone during these devastating times, either by circumstances or choice, do not lose a sense of obligation for yourself. That means that you should put aside some time for self-care.
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People have long held the notion that self-care and self-soothing are signs of being selfish. What people forget is that our bodies need these two elements to thrive. Take care of yourself in a way that you feel is right for you. If this year you are spending thanksgiving miles away from your family, here are self-care hacks to make your day a success.
1. Reevaluate Your Thinking
Although our minds are programmed that we are supposed to spend our Thanksgiving at home, try to reframe your mind this year. Instead, view this holiday as a solo vacation. If you get stressed or depressed as the day approaches, the first thing you should do is reevaluate your thinking.
If you are alone this holiday, view it as a time for seclusion and relaxation.
2. Treat Yourself
Food and the thanksgiving holiday are inseparable, so one great thing to do is prepare your favorite food or go for dinner. Whatever meal you choose, make sure you are happy. Thanksgiving is scheduled for one day, but with creative activities such as traveling, cooking, and time off, the mood can last for a week. Prepare to do something that you enjoy and ensure that you will feel good the entire week. Individual nourishing activities can help you feel lively the whole week.
3. Volunteer
There is a sense of gratification in giving back. Helping others is an excellent way of appreciating yourself. There are numerous ways to show kindness to people even if you are away from home.
You can choose to go to a shelter to share love, visit a nursing home, or visit an animal shelter—Thanksgiving is all about appreciating others and yourself. Therefore, there is no other unique way of appreciating yourself than helping the less fortunate.
4. Reach Out to Friends and Family
Sometimes we keep a distance from each other, waiting for the other party to reach out first. The time for waiting for your family and friends to read non-verbal clues is long gone. Don’t assume that your friends know you are going to spend this holiday alone. It takes vulnerability and courage to share your emotions with your friends, especially in need.
If you are alone during this holiday, don’t shy away from reaching to your friends. You might be surprised to find out that they will also be spending Thanksgiving alone. Additionally, if you know one of your friends will be spending Thanksgiving alone, give them support, and show that you appreciate them in your life.
In today’s world, you don’t need to travel to see your friends, hold a zoom meeting, and enjoy the moment together.
5. Appreciate What You Have in Life
You don’t have to be with your loved ones to appreciate what you have in life. The ethos of the day is to express gratitude because of where you are in life. It doesn’t matter whether you are alone. Wherever you are, take time and write down the thing you are proud of.
Spending thanksgiving alone can be sensitive, especially if it’s your first time. Evade boredom and negative thoughts by taking care of yourself by doing the things that trigger happiness in your life.
