6 Ways to Spread Joy This Holiday Season

The holiday season can be one of the most fun, yet stressful, times of the year. Though it’s supposed to be the most joyful season with all the food, family and events, stress and anxiety can easily sneak their way into the lives of many. Additionally, the holiday season can prove to be an extremely difficult time for those who are living with a variety of disparities.

Lending a hand, or even performing a small act of kindness, can spread joy and cheer during the holiday season. The best way to find meaning and purpose in our lives is to show compassion and empathy for those around us.

Here are six ways to help spread joy this holiday season:

1. Volunteer for a local nonprofit or organization.

This of is one of Hope Blooms’ favorite ways to spread joy! Helping a local nonprofit or organization can have a much bigger impact than you think. Be sure to volunteer for a cause that you are passionate about and look forward to helping with. Hope Blooms welcomes volunteers year round to spread joy and emotional healing in our communities!

2. Reconnect with those you have lost touch with.

Whether it’s a relative you have not seen in a while, an old coworker or a friend who you might not visit as often, reconnect and catch up with them. Human connection is one of the most important aspects of our well-being and reconnecting with someone can make them feel appreciated and cared for. Sharing joyful moments during the holiday season can put anyone in the right spirit!

3. Cook a meal or bake treats for someone in need.

Food can be one of the best ways to touch someone’s heart. Many individuals find comfort in a well-cooked meal or homemade goodie. You can make this act of kindness even better by inviting someone you love into your kitchen to prepare the food with!

4. Be a “Secret Santa.”

Giving back is so important when spreading joy. Secretly give a monetary or physical gift to an individual who is struggling, donate to an organization or pay for the person in line behind you.  These simple acts can make someone’s day or entire holiday season oh-so-bright!

5. Support your loved ones.

There is much that happens during the holiday season, and with all that is going on, it’s a great time to show extra love and support for significant individuals in your life. Showing up to a holiday recital, being present for family events and cheering others on spreads oodles of joy.

6. Shine a light for all to see.

The holiday season is a perfect time to a shine light and radiate positivity for those around you. Stray away from being negative or holding people back, and instead be encouraging, be kind and stay cheerful. We create the atmosphere we would like to be part of, and simply put by Robert Ingersoll, “We rise by lifting others.”

The holiday season really can be one of the most wonderful times of the year. Sometimes, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of all that comes with the holidays.

However, it’s important to take a moment and reflect on how you would like to best spread joy and give back during this season. Being purposeful and empathetic in what you do for others can make all the difference in their lives. Remember going into this holiday season that you are loved and matter greatly!