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Tinashe Nyamushanya Youth Interactive Writer
For many of us, this time of year is a time for finding joy in the planning and celebrating of various festivals and celebrations that bring families and friends together. With varying levels of restrictions in place across the world, it is safe to assume that this year’s celebrations will be different to last year’s, but may still not be ‘back to normal’.
It is that time of the year end when people all over the world get to celebrate Christmas day.
Some people get to visit tourist attractions, friends and relatives whilst others party and go braaing, slaying — you name it.
For some of us, the formal parts of religious festivals may change —with places of Worship operating to different rules. For others, the informal gatherings and family traditions that accompany times of celebration will be affected.
Most of the religious festivals at this time of year celebrate prosperity, hope and light — and it is important that we hold onto the meaning of these celebrations all the more if we cannot mark them in the way we might have in the past.
Coping with the disappointment that you may not be able to mark an occasion in the usual way, particularly events which have special meaning, can be challenging. You may feel a range of emotions akin to grief and sadness, which is completely understandable. Accepting the reality of our situation without holding on to the hope that maybe things will return to ‘normal’ in time, can help.
If you can reduce the gap between your expectations of the ‘perfect holiday’ and the reality of what’s possible, you can plan how to balance safety and celebration.
It’s good to keep in mind that while preparing a celebration can be a happy and exciting time for many, some people can feel under a lot of pressure to create the perfect experience for their loved ones.
This can cause increased stress, anxiety and feelings of inadequacy which may be heightened this year with the additional barriers in place. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the extra demands of the season, try to balance your sense of obligation against your need for self-care.
We will have to be more creative in how we join in the festivities but, in years to come, talking about how we celebrated in 2021 may well become one of our most cherished memories — precisely because we were asked to strip back and focus on the meaning.
Below are some of the tips on how to celebrate festive season during the restrictions
- Focus on kindness — try to divert your attention away from what you can’t have and instead focus on what kind things you can do for others and for yourself.
- Be there for each other — try to have conversations with family and friends about how you’re feeling, listen to how others are coping and act with empathy and understanding.
- Take time to be grateful —appreciate the joyful little moments. Reflecting on all you have to be grateful for can really lift your mood.
- Gift giving — if you feel the need to buy more gifts than usual — perhaps to compensate for celebrations being different this year — remember that this is a normal feeling, but not something you need to do.
We’re all in this together and you and your gifts are enough. You don’t need to compensate for things beyond your control. If money is tight this year, remember not to stretch beyond your means and consider doing something creative or thoughtful rather than spending more money.
- Stick to the rules — if you’re feeling under pressure from friends or family to break the rules, remember we are still a pandemic, and the situation is fragile.
It is for the safety of everyone, including ourselves, to stick to stipulated Covid-19 guidelines. By following the rules, we all contribute to a healthier society.
Keep up to date with guidelines in your area
It seems as if to some, this will be a Christmas to remember and make merry and give it your best. Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year. Till next time, have fun and be creative!
Online Reporter