“New Normal” Calls for New Holiday Traditions

Can’t host parties, dinners, and get-togethers this year?

Then what’s your plan for the holidays?

Try sending gifts to your loved ones through email or the mail, exchanging greetings on FaceTime, and having dinner together on a virtual table!

Holiday Traditions During COVID – How to do it?

Let’s face it, holidays this year are going to be considerably different from the way they used to be. Many households may secretly be relieved that new traditions are being ushered in. You might not be able to practice the old traditions in our “new normal”. The tradition of giving back to your community and rejoicing with others, can still happen. How to do it with the looming threat of COVID-19 forbidding close human contact?

Here are some COVID-friendly ways of celebrating the holidays this year:

  1. Let Others Know That You Care
    While you can’t be physically there with your family and friends, it’s important that they know you’re thinking of them. Send gifts and cards over mail, wish them Merry Christmas or Happy Hannukah over FaceTime, and don’t forget to ask how they’re doing in such hard times.
  1. Bake and Share Cookie Recipes
    Another great way of showing love and care is by sharing cooking recipes with friends. You can also bake cookies at home and send cookie jars to neighbors and those who live nearby. Don’t forget to wear a mask!
  1. Encourage Those Who’re Struggling
    The pandemic hasn’t been easy for anyone. Help and encourage those who’re struggling financially, emotionally, or health wise. Tell them to stay strong because after every storm comes a rainbow.

Lastly, to keep your own emotional health in good shape, acknowledge your blessings, be thankful and hopeful for better days ahead.

In case you aren’t at your best emotionally at this time of year, you are not alone. If the holiday blues are taking you down, send a quick note to your counselor and set up a few sessions.