The season of blinding lanterns illuminating the darkest corner of an empty street is upon us. The scorching heat touching the skin is gently replaced by frigid gusts. The houses embellished with buoyant decorations generously welcome the spirit of Christmas. The atmosphere of exuberance warms the hearts of many but not all. Some places are hidden beneath the deepest crevice of the mind. Even the light could not slither its way inside. For others, the chill augments the loneliness and absence of warmth. The holidays may be a time for festivities with family and mountains of food. However, as the buzz that goes on all year round momentarily halts, the unsolicited cacophony of thoughts invites itself to lurk. The slow pace of each day is as agonising as the gloom sinking in. Even so, everyone deserves some form of happiness and care after an exhausting venture. Make this break worthwhile.
1. The Magic of Grabbing a Book or Two
Reading can be quite a chore. Well, it would not be classified as such if you are reading a book that genuinely intrigues you. The system restricts students to choose the classics. The genre is often glorified as the epitome of magnificent writing when it does not have to be like that. Readers can appreciate any genre of literature equally. And the moment you manage to get through that mentality, the world of books is astonishing. You get to live many lives and empathize with characters that reflect the depth of human emotions. The experience is both beautiful and fascinating. Wasting time is not an option when you start flipping pages. Words are a great companion amid intrusive thoughts during this season.
2. Music as an Antidote
Listening to your favorite songs is healing. Find your comfort in-between the voices, groove, and sentiments within the masterpiece. Music is a marvelous creation that translates intense feelings to the listener without requiring the knowledge of a specific language. It is an effective medium for self-expression that is harmless. The seemingly insurmountable unhappiness you are feeling can be delicately conquered.
3. Satiate your Hunger (Literally)
Food is heaven on earth. Not a single celebration is complete without a hefty meal. When the waves of sadness govern your mornings, satisfy your cravings. You do not have to feel guilty over this simple pleasure. If eating your favorite snack makes you a tiny bit joyful, do it. Never bind yourself to stringent dietary standards. After all, Christmas and New Year banquets are a rare, delightful occurrence.
4. Get Cozy with your Favorite Movies/TV Shows
If you are not the type to indulge yourself with lengthy novels, perhaps watching a star-studded cast act in a compelling story on your screen would do the charm. Witnessing certain (fictional) characters deal with their own set of problems is engrossing and evocative. There is no shame in clinging to your little rays of sunshine for a tincture of glee to brighten your outlook.
Relaxing and doing the stuff you love should be your utmost priority this holiday season. And as the dust settles, believe that things will get better. So, give yourself what you deserve.