AMID A NEW ENVIRONMENT a festive spirit Keeping
TRY SOMETHING NEW Another great way to stay in the festive spirit is by embarking on a new adventure with your family. Whether near or far, get creative. Cross-state travel is out of the question for some of us, but there's plenty of options that are only a car ride away. While COVID-19 closures have prevented many of us from our typical exercise routines, why not hike a new trail to see some legendary California vistas from a whole new perspective? In the evening, drive through a new neighborhood to see holiday lights to get in the seasonal spirit. During time off, you could even take a road trip along Highway 101 to revel in the blissful ocean that's reliably beautiful all year long.
PRACTICE GRATITUDE The holidays can be challenging at the
The gathering of friends and family, the roar of laughter and the heavenly aroma of a giant seasonal roast floating out of the kitchen—it all may feel like a distant memory going into the winter season in the time of social distancing. But getting everyone together isn't the only way to feel warmth in California in the fall and winter. While gathering may be out of the picture this year, remember what matters during this season: gratitude, connection and tradition.
best of times. Social distancing restrictions can make them that much harder. If you start to feel down about the way things are, realize that you are not alone in this journey, and remember all the ways you're making the best of an unusual situation. Initiating a practice of gratitude is a proven way to boost your mood. All it takes is writing down a few things you're grateful for every day, no matter how small. You can use a notebook you already have or get yourself a festive journal to commemorate your new seasonal traditions. Whatever you choose, taking time to notice the good that's happening around you might help make these different approaches to celebrating a little easier. Even though we're calling this period the "new normal," it doesn't mean we can't still enjoy the fun and festivities of the fall and winter. Try these tips to keep your spirits lifted this year, and hopefully, it won't be too long until you can safely gather with friends and family again. By keeping yourself and others safe, it will be worth the wait. Distance makes the heart grow fonder, after all.
So how can we keep our spirits up this season? Here are some tips to feel closer to your loved ones when you're physically distant.
PUT PEN TO PAPER When was the last time you sat down,
UPHOLD YOUR FAVORITE TRADITIONS
pulled out a fresh sheet of stationery, grabbed your favorite pen and wrote a letter to someone special? Technology has been invaluable during this time of social distancing. Really, what would we do without texting or video calls for such a long stretch of isolation? But handwritten letters can provide deeper connection: the excitement of getting mail that's not a bill or catalog, the joy of reading the handwriting of a dear friend, the knowledge that someone took the time to write a letter to you. It's a simple and meaningful way to show someone you care. Plus, it makes a great keepsake that lasts longer than a Facebook message or a box of chocolates. So, go ahead— grab a sheet of paper or buy a card from a shop and share a special message with an old friend or family member.
Traditions bring us comfort and connection. It's more important than ever to find activities that are safe to do and bring us joy. Small group activities are a great way to experience your usual merriment without the risk of being in a crowded room. Set aside
some time with a loved one—in person or virtually—to cook your favorite seasonal recipes. Even without a gathering, the result of your favorite recipe will be just as sweet (or savory) as the quality time you get to
spend together. Plus, your delicious treat pairs even better with a handwritten card to a lucky someone.
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IN YOUR CORNER ISSUE 6 | 2020
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