It’s December and it seems that trees are up everywhere, lights are flashing away…it can only mean that Christmas is coming around again.

Unfortunately, due to the current pandemic this year’s Christmas will be very different to ones we’ve had previously. But that does not mean it can’t be an enjoyable time.

So here are a few tips to help you enjoy Christmas, and to keep safe while doing so.

Dress festive

It’s a good idea to start feeling festive by looking festive. Dig up the old Christmas jumpers, Santa hats, antlers…you could even get Santa costumes for those who like to go the extra mile.

For those who like to go to the beautician, you can bring the beautician home to you by purchasing nail polish, lipstick, eyeliner (festive reds, greens and golds, for instance) – and spend some time having a makeup session.

Supporting businesses

Of course, going to local shops is not an option for everyone due to lockdown, but if your local shops are selling festive decorations, it’s a good idea to give them support and buy local.

And even if you want a Costa coffee, but don’t want to risk going outside, the rise of take-out delivery and apps such as Deliveroo have made it even easier to bring things to you and shop safely (so you can enjoy the traditional Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks!).

Arranging social events

This year parties and get-togethers will be virtual, but that does not mean it can’t be enjoyable!
SUBU and our ResLife team have adapted well to our circumstances and have arranged plenty of virtual events for students to enjoy (even on my course social events were arranged by students to help groups socialise!).

It could be a quiz night for those who like to train their brains, or just a plain cocktail party – find something your group of friends will all enjoy. Zoom and Skype are both free and available for download on phones and computers alike, so setting up is no hassle at all.

Have some me-time

This year has undoubtedly been massively stressful for all of us, so it would be a great idea to use the Christmas period as a time to ‘wind down’ and take a step back from all that has happened, and take time doing something you enjoy.
Perhaps read a book, catch up on films and TV, listen to some music (it doesn’t even have to be Christmas music!) – as long as it is enjoyable and helps take your mind off of the stress, it’s all good.

Keep in touch

Lots of people will be finding this year and the festive period tougher than others. Checking in with friends and family, near or far, is always a good idea. A simple “Hi, how are you?” can offer a lot of help to someone who is in need, and a quick talk can sometimes work wonders!

Have hope

It is easier said than done, but since we are nearing the end of 2020, you can think about what to do with life in 2021 – with vaccines now being distributed, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The old-fashioned resolutions can be brought into effect when the time is right, so give yourself something to look forward to achieving.

And, above all, enjoy Christmas. It may not be like any other Christmas you’ll ever have, but consider these tips, and make the most of it!!