With the COVID-19 pandemic, Christmas is going to be different in most countries this year. But being unable to go on vacation, to reunite with your loved ones back home, or enjoy the usual events and activities in your host country due to health restrictions and social distancing doesn't mean you should sit down and get bored at home. Here's how you can get into the Christmas spirit even though the crisis is keeping you away from the rest of the world.
Make a Christmas playlist
From early December, Christmas carols are usually on repeat mode in almost every business around the world. But with the current restrictions, you're less likely to be touring bars, shops or malls this year. One of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit is by making a special Christmas playlist. Are you more of a fan of English or international songs? A mix of both could be perfect. Tune in to YouTube, and you're done! From Tino Rossi to Mariah Carey and Sia, the choice is vast. It can also be a great way to learn how to wish Merry Christmas in different languages. But don't keep them to yourself! Your friends and family might also be feeling isolated and depressed during this uncommon festive period. So consider sharing your playlist with them on social networks or through apps like Whatsapp, WeChat, Messenger, etc. It can bring them a ray of light amidst the COVID-19 chaos.
Decorate your personal space
Where are your fairy lights and your colourful Christmas balls? What about your Santa's hat? Assuming you've preserved them carefully since last Christmas, it's high time you took them out to get into the festive mood. If you have kids, decorating the house and the Christmas tree can be some family activity to break the lockdown routine. If you live alone, your cat or your dog can be your assistant. Almost everyone loves to contemplate the colourful Christmas decorations. If you're currently on holiday and you have the necessary material, you can also make some DIY Christmas decorations for your home. Make your vital space as pleasant as possible during this festive season. Making postcards is another great way to spend your free time and convey your wishes to your loved ones.
Try out Christmas recipes
If you are locked down with your family, you should seize the opportunity to spend some quality with them over a nice meal. As you are unlikely to be able to dine out this Christmas, you can prepare your favourite dishes or cakes yourself. The Internet will be your best friend, whether you're looking to try a foreign recipe or to prepare a typical dish from your home country. Your family will love it, and it can be fun to have your partner or children help you out. Don't forget to take some photos to share on Instagram and other social networks to inspire your friends and followers.
Watch your favourite Christmas movies
In locked down countries, family activities such as movie nights or theatre won't be a thing this Christmas. But that doesn't mean you should sit down and get bored. If you have a Netflix account or have a Christmas movies collection, it can be a great opportunity to spend quality time with your partner or family. Have you heard of “movie marathons”? Just pick your favourite movies or series and have your family members choose theirs. Prepare a few snacks and drinks and get cosy in your couch. If you live alone, you can still invite your family and friends back home to join your movie marathon. After all, distance is just a number.
Self-care
The festive season is the perfect time for self-care amidst the lockdown and current restrictions. You might be craving for a relaxing therapy at the spa, but there are plenty of ways to pamper yourself at home. Start by subscribing to a fitness channel on YouTube so that you rid yourself of the extra pounds you've taken in the past few months. Then, test the DIY care recipes that you found on Google. Fancy a face mask or a hair mask, or a relaxing eye treatment after spending hours in front of your computer, or a DIY scrub before your Christmas dinner? Give yourself a treat as many times as you want!
