Thursday 21-12-2023 - 16:54

This time of year is one full of festivities and joy for a lot of you, but for some it can be quite difficult and emotionally challenging. The holiday season might bring back some hard memories, you might be learning to cope with new circumstances, or you simply might be a long way from home and not know how to celebrate.

Whatever your situation, we want to help make sure you have the best festive period possible, and enjoy your well-deserved winter break.

Here’s some of our favourite solo activities to do this Christmas to help lift your spirits and make the most of your time-off.

 

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🍰 Bake some sweet treats (and eat them of course)

‘Tis the season for eating as many baked goods as you can physically fit, so you might as well make the most of it. Pop on your chef’s hat, set up your YouTube tutorial or TikTok inspo and you’re good to go!

Or if you maybe don’t trust your baking skills but still deserve a treat, there’s always Lidl Bakery 🧁

 

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📖 Start a new book

Remember that one book you’ve had on your to-be-read list for a good year or so now, well what better time to finally pick it up than now?

Or maybe reading has never really been your thing, but as the year comes to a close it could be time to start something new. With so many genres and ways of reading these days, there’s basically something for everyone.

If you struggle at this time of year with loneliness or anxiety, immersing yourself into a new world can be the perfect escape you need.

 

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🤝 Help someone else

Ever considered volunteering to help make a change in someone else’s life? What better time to start than the festive period, the time when people need it most.

Manchester Met’s Rise courses are a great place to get started and see just some of the ways you can get involved, both now and all year long.

Sometimes helping someone else is what you need to help yourself, and you don’t even know it.

 

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❄️ Go for a winter walk

Never underestimate the power of fresh air. Wrap up warm and head out for a calming, frosty walk to help clear your head and get some exercise.

It doesn’t have to be boring - grab your headphones and listen to your fave band or your latest podcast obsession as you stroll (and of course, always stay safe and be aware of your surroundings).

 

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Whatever you decide to do, we hope it's filled with joy and positivity, reach out to those around you and build connections with the ones you love. But remember, it’s just as important to have good quality time for yourself both during the holidays and all year round.