The coronavirus pandemic has put time-old holiday traditions on pause: with indoor skating, December travel plans and large-scale celebrations suspended, 2020 is far from receiving the epic conclusion it deserves. We’ve made it through a tumultuous 12 months, yet as the year nears its end, many of us are still distanced from loved ones, left sans the festive spirit of the season.

However, being alone for the holidays doesn’t mean you can’t boost your spirits. If you're looking for ways to make this month as enjoyable as possible, consider adopting some of the tips below—a brighter, more optimistic year awaits.

Treat Yourself

Make the most of a holiday break at home by identifying the things that make you feel good. Then, all you have to do is give yourself permission to kick back and relax.

If you're a fan of bubble baths, splurge on artisan bath bombs and enjoy the sense-soothing, skin-nurturing effects. Scented candles and festive sheet masks can help further achieve a relaxing aura.

Feel free to snack on some festive holiday sweets this season as well—candy canes come in several unique flavors, including Kool Aid, lemonade and even Red Hots. Additionally, Oreo recently launched a DIY feature on their website so you can gift others (and yourself) customized cookies with a photo of choice.

Focus on Your Emotional Wellbeing

The period preceding major holidays is a source of stress for many, and with family gatherings cancelled, December can feel even more difficult to deal with. In the coming weeks, take a step back from the string of Christmas lights to look at life from a different perspective.

Pass hours indoors by reflecting on yourself and your mental health, utilizing the support of a nearby family member, friend or roommate. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help—there’s no better time than now to start working toward a happier, healthier you.

Get in Touch with Loved Ones

Being unable to hug your best friend or see your parents can be frustrating, but it's not an excuse to stay out of touch. Thanks to technology, having virtual get-togethers isn't just highly accessible, but it's relatively easy. That means that you can see your grandparents, even when they struggle with simple FaceTime calls.

If Zoom is too complicated for your relatives, find some classic charm in sending handwritten letters. By exploring ways to stay connected with your loved ones this atypical holiday season, you can spread pure joy and positivity—no Christmas caroling needed. 

Create New Traditions

The holidays are marked by all-out decorations and online shopping sprees, and in isolation, it’s especially important to maintain the holiday traditions you cherish. Decorate your apartment as extravagantly as you wish, or adopt a DIY project to complete (gingerbread houses are always Instagram goals). If you’re a Jamie Oliver fan, consider cooking up a full-blown holiday dinner for one.

If you prefer a calmer vibe, get cozy in bed or cuddle up by the fireplace. No chimney? No problem—a video of a crackling fireplace on the television works just as well. Also consider picking up a new read—not only is the experience relaxing, but it's good for your circadian rhythm as well.

Get a Head Start on 2021

The whirlwind that has been 2020 is almost at an end—so why not get a head start on the year to come? Reflect on your goals and expectations for 2021. Perhaps the coronavirus pandemic has taught you some things about yourself or allowed you to focus on the things that matter?

If your plan for next year is to invest in yourself, being alone for the holidays can help you begin. Subscribe to the online yoga class you’ve been eager to try. Prepare your resume and send out job applications. You can even set up next year's journal and write down what you hope to achieve. Nothing is holding you back from looking toward the future. In fact, spending sufficient time with your thoughts during the holidays is the perfect opportunity to start making your dreams a reality.

Additional reporting by Sarah Kaminski.