Give yourself permission to slow down
Watching films, listening to music alone and reflecting on what the year has brought can be incredibly restorative. Naps are important too. Rest isn’t indulgent – it’s necessary.
-
My relationship with Christmas has definitely changed over the years, not only because of personal experiences but also because of the material side of it. I really don’t mind if I don’t receive a single gift. As long as my loved ones are happy and safe, I’m good.
I’m much more conscious now of not doing anything in excess just because “it’s Christmas”. I don’t have to go to every party, drink more than I usually would, or buy the biggest tree out of everyone I know. I keep it quite simple. As long as I have my Mariah Carey ornament, I’m happy.
Focus on the joy of giving, not the size of it
I have little nieces and nephews who I love giving presents to; their joy is very healing. Seeing their faces light up over something small is a reminder that Christmas doesn’t have to be about big gestures or perfect plans.
Honour your grounding rituals
Watching films has always been one of my favourite ways to reset, especially at Christmas. Singing along to Sister Act 2, crying to Untamed Heart, and critiquing and deeply loving Love Actually is a ritual that really grounds me.
Those films give me an outlet for all the emotions that can come up at this time of year – joy, sadness, nostalgia – without having to explain any of it to anyone.
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Try a solo cinema trip
I’ve gone to the cinema on my own for years and I love it. You don’t have to talk; you don’t have to perform – you just turn up and let the film take over. You’re sharing something with a room full of people, even if you never say a word.
During the festive period, when everything can feel louder and more demanding, that kind of quiet shared experience can really help. Being alone at the movies isn’t just – it can be joyful and empowering. It’s one of the easiest ways to get out of the house, feel part of something and give yourself a moment of calm.
That’s why the Quiet Christmas campaign with ODEON and Mind means a lot to me. It reflects the reality that Christmas looks different for everyone and says, very simply: it’s fine to show up exactly as you are.
Show up as you are
Christmas 2015 was particularly tough for me, because it was my first without my father. He had passed away nine months earlier, so everything still felt very raw. He was always the one who would say a few words before the meal and carve the turkey, so that year we switched things up and went to a restaurant instead. It took the pressure off and suspended the reality of his absence for a while.
When you’re grieving, even the happiest traditions can suddenly feel like a test you didn’t sign up for. That experience really reinforced how important it is to listen to yourself. If you need a breather, take it – whatever that looks like. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
For me, a long walk on my own is a key part of Christmas Day. All year round, talking to people is a big part of my job; on that walk, it’s just me and my thoughts. I decompress, clear my head and reset. It’s non-negotiable.
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Clara is working with ODEON, in support of Mind, on the Quiet Christmas campaign. Sometimes, the best connection comes from shared silence, and research shows that shared cultural experiences – even when experienced solo – can support wellbeing and a sense of connection. For more information, visit ODEON.co.uk or Mind.org.uk.
Do you have a story to tell or opinions to share about this? Get in touch and tell us more.
Change a vendor’s life this Christmas.
Buy from your local Big Issue vendor every week – or support online with a vendor support kit or a subscription – and help people work their way out of poverty with dignity.
