The festive season is here, and it is not uncommon for some people to feel lonely or some sort of heaviness during this period. While everything around you seems loud and joyful, it can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re indoors, scrolling, and watching other people celebrate. The truth is, you don’t need big plans or perfect circumstances to feel a little better. Sometimes, small and personally curated moments are enough to fill you with warmth and happiness.
If you are wondering what you can do this festive season that will lift your mood and also support your mental health, here are a few fun festive activities you should consider:
Cooking is one of the proven ways to reduce stress, foster mindfulness, and promote creativity and social connections. The chopping, stirring, tasting, and smelling can pull you out of your head and into the moment. You don’t have to prepare a full Christmas spread. It could be jollof rice, stew, small chops, or even baking something simple.
And if you can, share it. There’s a lot of love in sharing. Eat with family, invite a friend over, or send a portion to a neighbour. Food has a quiet way of creating connection, and connection helps more than we realise.
We often see old people in parks playing chess and card games. It might look like they are only doing this because they have too much free time on their hands. But another reason why they do this is that they want to spend time with people, even strangers. They want to feel the warmth and comfort of relating with others and getting to know them.
You don’t need a big party or a packed house to feel connected to others. Sometimes, playing board games or cards with strangers in parks, video games with people online, or just sitting with family and friends while chatting can do wonders for your mood. A short visit to a friend or an evening of laughter can remind you that you’re not as alone as you feel. It’s okay if you don’t stay long. Presence matters more than duration.
Being indoors for too long can intensify feelings of loneliness. Stepping out, even briefly, can help shift your emotional state. Going to the cinema, attending a small screening, or watching a movie with others instead of alone can be surprisingly uplifting. It’s not just about the movie. It’s about being around people, hearing laughter, and sharing a collective experience, even in silence.
The fun thing about this activity is that you don’t have to know anyone to belong in these spaces. Attending a carol service, joining people to sing around a Christmas tree, or participating in community celebrations can help you feel part of something bigger. Singing together, listening to familiar songs, and soaking in the atmosphere can create warmth, even if your heart feels guarded.
There’s comfort in familiarity. Watching old Christmas movies, listening to music you loved growing up, or engaging in traditions that once brought you joy can be emotionally soothing.
Nostalgia doesn’t erase pain, but it can offer a sense of safety and remind you that joy has existed in your life before and can exist again.
Giving doesn’t have to be expensive or dramatic. Helping someone run an errand, checking in on a friend, volunteering briefly, or simply being kind to yourself can lift your mood. Sometimes, showing up for others gently reminds us of our own value and place in the world.
You don’t have to feel festive all the time. You don’t have to attend every event or pretend you’re okay. But if there’s one thing that feels manageable, a meal, a song, a movie, a moment of laughter, allow yourself to enjoy it without guilt.
This season doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Even if this season feels complicated, take it one small moment at a time. You’re going to be fine.
