11/28/2024
Solo doesn’t have to mean “Alone.”
We’ve heard about solo traveling, like backpacking through Europe, and solo self-care days, celebrated in all kinds of ways. We associate “solo” activities with exploration, adventure, novelty, creativity, openness to people and experiences, and growth.
Have you considered what a “Solo Holiday” experience can do for you?
When you don’t have anywhere to be on the holidays, by fate or by choice, these are five ideas worth exploring:
1: Attend Socials
Community socials- in person or online – are advertised on social media sites and local meetup sites. Some are operating all day long and open to all ages, and large enough events may include food, games, movies, art, music, indoor sports, and contests. Look up what’s available, are you curious enough to go?
2: Take Online Classes- or Enroll for Degree or Vocational Trainings
Boost your education or your job training, or explore personal interests like cooking, crafting, and life-saving CPR and first aid. You never know what could open new avenues for you. Some classes are hybrid, with an online portion and an in-person certification component. Which ones have open enrollment now? Are you ready to level up your life?
3: Video Chat with Friends and Family – or Text, if you want to
Locally, nationally, globally- make time to connect and catch up with friends, classmates, and family. Make it a group chat – you never know how close your next reconnection or new connection may be! It could be in your own neighborhood, or you could score an invite for a destination holiday!
4: Make it a Movie Day, At Home or at the Cinema
Binge watch your favorite series or watch the newest releases. If you go to a theater, call ahead and find out when their busiest showings are expected to be - maybe the matinee - and go to watch the movie with fellow fans in the audience. Laughing in a crowd –and being amazed by an awesome cinematic scene - can be a fun group experience!
5: Volunteer
Connect with well-known and reputable community programs. Tons of volunteer opportunities are listed online. Did you know that volunteers can do a variety of things besides serving food? Activities include clothing and donation collection, toy drives, taking photos, offering social media support, tutoring, coaching, art and play activities, making care packages, making calls, nutrition education, making needed repairs (handy work or sewing), running games, support groups, and more! Do you have a favorite charity, community, or special population that you want to support? These include food pantries, family shelters, schools, people with special needs, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters, deployed military service members, veterans, elder care community centers, first responders, and athletes. What are your favorite things to do, and where can you see yourself doing it?
Stay safe and have fun everyone!
Until next time,
Maria
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Maria Constantinou, LMFT, LMHC, BSN is a licensed psychotherapist offering services for NY, NJ, and CT residents, and the owner of Lifespan Wellness Marriage & Family Therapy PLLC in Queens, NY.
Questions about this article? Contact Maria at lifespanwellnessmft@gmail.com
Are you a health professional or health organization that is interested in exploring a partnership? Contact Maria at lifespanwellnessmft@gmail.com
To learn more about health, relationships, and the intersection of medical and mental health, follow on Instagram.
Thank you for your support!
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