There are many people during the festive season that spends the time alone, whether it be because a loved one has passed, the family are too far away, or that they visit only every second Christmas. Whatever the reason, there are ways to enjoy the time for yourself.
Society has us feeling particularly lonely around Christmas, with the expectation that to enjoy Christmas, you need to be surrounded by people. We suggest that it doesn't need to be an adverse season for someone spending it alone, but rather a time to be you, be thankful for your independence and mindful of spending a day with yourself, celebrating you.
The most important tip we can offer is to make your calls to your family and friends early in the morning, skype them, or hop on social media and wish them a Merry Christmas and enjoy the contact and interactions early in the day.
Then let the alone time begin!
Spending Christmas by yourself means you can wear anything you like, a pyjama day, a day to wear your old favourite clothes, or perhaps no clothes at all. Enjoy the freedom of not having to get dressed up for anyone and take in the casual atmosphere. Put on some socks and slide around your floor while singing into your toothbrush – if you need some inspiration check out this video.
Set up a comfy spot where you have access to your computer, tv and nibblies all together and without having to get up.
When it comes to having snacks to eat, we suggest you plan. Nuts and Bolts is a favourite for many, and if you want to cheat a little, it now comes already prepared in packets at the supermarket. If you still want to make your mix, you will find many variations across the internet such as this great recipe from Taste. Sweet potatoes can cook into a crispy and delicious chip in minutes using the microwave. Thinly slice a sweet potato, place in a bowl with a teaspoon of olive oil, salt and pepper and toss to coat. By using a piece of greaseproof paper line your microwave tray. Place pieces of sweet potato in a single layer and microwave for three and a half minutes. Enjoy.
Pick out a movie or tv series to watch, and since you are the one choosing it, it doesn't have to be about Christmas, something that everyone else wants to watch, or the 60th year of the rerun Ben Hur - enjoy the freedom, it is your choice.
If you need some suggestions because you cannot decide what to watch we have done some research and found the following most-watched shows: Christmas based shows suggested are Christmas at Graceland, or the new sequel Home for the Holidays. Non-Christmas themed suggestions being John Wick, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood or The Irishman. When it comes to TV series and binge- watching, we suggest The Crown, Unbelievable, The Politician or if you want some great laughs to try Brooklyn Nine-Nine or of course there are Kath and Kim.
While you are watching tv, hop online and buy yourself a Christmas gift - most online stores offer significant savings after Christmas Eve so you can get yourself a bargain, after all, you deserve it. When your gift arrives, you can be sure that it is just what you wanted.
Since you are online, check out this online casino. You will be surprised at the experience, with it being more of a journey than the standard online gaming platforms.
Try a DIY facemask during the day, and yes men can do facemasks too. Try mashing half an avocado with one tablespoon of honey and smearing all over your face. Wash off after about 20 minutes. Marie Claire magazine has a couple of face mask recipes from your pantry that are said to bring back your glow.
Since we are talking about relaxation, how about making yourself an oatmeal bath bag and spending some time in the bathtub, using a stocking or clean sock, add a cup of oats and tie it off. When placed in the bath, the oats will infuse the water. You can add to this bag depending on what ingredients you have and the desired outcome. A tablespoon of powdered milk will help soften your skin. A tablespoon of baking soda can help reset your skins PH level, and a drizzle of olive, coconut or almond oil will lock in moisture as your soak.
Prepare a journal for 2020. Buy a diary with preferably one page to one day and start it on Christmas Day. A Journal offers many personal benefits, such as keeping your thoughts organised, allowing yourself to reflect internally, boosting your memory and inspiring creativity. Starting your journal on Christmas Day can help you plan for any of your 2020 goals and set a timeline.
Doing nothing is not normal for most people, especially over Christmas. Life is so busy, and we don't often sit around looking after ourselves.
Being alone at Christmas is an opportunity to reflect on ourselves, to indulge ourselves and be mindful of who we are.
Go on and enjoy it. Christmas only comes around once a year
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