“Help me feel more holiday joy”

With all the stress this time of year, it can be hard to savor the meaning of the season. Here, simple ways to slow down and experience genuine bliss

Celebrate on your terms Let go of comparisons

One obstacle that makes it hard to get into the festive spirit is our tendency to compare ourselves to others. “I remember looking at a friend’s perfect holiday decor and feeling like I had to keep up,” says expert Tama Fortner. “But letting go of this pressure allowed me to reflect on what I wanted the holidays to look like. For example, I never liked stringing lights, so I let that go, and instead, we all pile into the car with hot cocoa and tour the neighborhood lights—it’s okay to simplify.”

Pick a joyful intention

Envision what you want this season to be about by setting an Advent intention, encourages expert Traci Smith. “Would you like to limit the number of invitations you accept to have more peace and less rush? Maybe you would like to be guided by an Advent word such as peace, joy or hope.” Consider jotting down your intention somewhere the whole family can see it.

Have fun with gratitude

Ritualizing blissful activities can be as easy as sharing a cuppa, says Smith, who encourages what she calls a “Gratitude Café,” simply enjoying hot cocoa with friends or family and sharing little joys. “Just grab a few mugs of hot chocolate and take turns practicing gratitude while the chocolate cools,” she says. “It’s a simple way to slow down, take in the scent of the cocoa and make it a special moment.”

Embrace hope Feel your feelings

It’s impossible to experience happiness without acknowledging sadness, says Smith. “Name your grief and consider lighting a candle while saying a short prayer: ‘We remember that though there is a lot of joy this season, sometimes there is sorrow too.’” This ritual can be especially healing during the winter solstice on December 21, the shortest day of the year. “It’s a reminder that the longest night doesn’t last forever—your days will get brighter.”

Reflect on spirituality

“Weave a few of the most memorable traditions into the season,” suggests Fortner. “For example, we sat down as a family and decided one of the things we loved best is reading Luke Chapter 2, the Christmas Story.” Other spiritual practices may be more subtle. “If you see a symbol of your faith, like a star, reflect on its symbolism—this helps traditions become intentional but not overwhelming.”

Revel in generosity

Giving is perhaps the easiest way to lift your spirits. “Whether you bake cookies for your local firehouse or share the gift of your time with a friend, generosity lifts everyone up,” says expert Brenda Poinsett. “Even things like connecting with faraway relatives over Zoom and taking the time to ask thoughtful questions like, ‘What was your earliest holiday memory?’ help you deepen your connections and feel the joy of the season.”