Are you wishing for an analog holiday this year? Me too!
I’m craving the simple joys of nature, authentic connection, and lots and lots of candlelight.
I also really want social justice, safety, and healthcare for all, plus a healthy planet, but I’m trying to focus on what I can control in my everyday life so I’m doing all my favorite things while I continue to boycott big box stores, billionaires and bullies. Who’s with me?
How do you find joy and peace in the midst of all the noise, busyness, FOMO, and just plain plastic of the holidays?
Maybe it’s music, art, play, cooking, hiking, crafting, reading, writing, creating community, or something else entirely.
One of my favorite ways to invite peace into my life is through nature. I go outside and bring nature back in with me.
Science tells us that just looking at a picture of nature helps to restore our minds and bodies. Getting outside can fill us with fresh air and new life.
While I’m outside, I like to forage for some greens and even a few fresh flowers if possible. But sometimes just colorful leaves, branches, pinecones, or even interesting rocks are fun to bring inside and keep the inspiration going.
If you don’t have much of a garden yourself, maybe you could ask a neighbor for permission to snip a few evergreen boughs or branches from a bush that has bright berries? Practice being a “good villager” and explore what you each have to share. If you have holly or cedar in your yard, perhaps you could offer some in exchange for the heather or rosemary they have in theirs.
You’ll likely find that most people actually like to be asked and are happy to help. The simple act of asking can help you build connections with your neighbors. And by asking, you give others permission to ask you for help in the future which can deepen connections even more. Reciprocity is a beautiful thing!
When you’ve gathered your fresh ingredients, go back inside and arrange them in a jar, vase, or just put them on your table or mantle as a reminder that life is still blooming and growing even in this cold, dark time of year.
Don’t worry if you haven’t got access to fresh evergreens. Faux greenery can be a great option, especially if it’s something you re-use year after year. I have fake garlands that I’ve been using for over ten years and they fill my home with festive charm even if it doesn’t smell amazing like the real stuff.
Holiday greenery hack:
My favorite way to use the faux evergreens is as a base for creating table runners and décor filled with abundance by adding my own pinecones and fresh greens, plus tiny birds, and candles, of course. This combo can be the best of both worlds.
Budget holiday garland hack:
Gift tags are inexpensive and so fun to tuck into garlands and table runners for added whimsy and style.
Another way to create deeper connections with others is by joining an organization or even volunteering together.
What’s an organization or issue that you care about? Find out what you can do to get involved and help make things better.
Local food banks, nature conservation groups, and charities of all kinds are always looking for volunteers.
No doubt you have skills and energy that could help them out. If you’re feeling shy about joining a new group, see if there’s a friend who wants to go with you.
Last of all, my favorite piece of advice for an analog holiday is to light some candles. Lots and lots of candles. And lanterns. And luminaria. And then maybe light a few more candles, just for fun. A few strings of twinkle lights never hurt either.
Candles can signify celebration, remembrance, contemplation, or be part of a spiritual practice. They can be as formal as heirloom crystal candlesticks or as simple as tea lights in twinkly little quilted jelly jars.
Candles indoors can make an ordinary day feel special. Outdoors they lend a magical quality of sparkling light in the darkness.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy candles in winter is to celebrate the Winter Solstice with neighbors and friends.
It’s so fun to honor the “shortest day of the year” by lighting up the night with lots of candles, lanterns, and luminaria.
If the weather cooperates, it’s extra fun to bundle up and head outside when the sun goes down so early.
You could line a path in your yard with candle lanterns or luminaria or have several of your neighbors join you by lining their driveways with lights and invite people to go house to house for holiday greetings and some simple treats and snacks.
Of course, you can buy luminaria, but it’s easy and fun to make your own like I did with small bags from the Dollar Store. Just put some sand or a wooden block in the bottom of the bag to weigh it down, drop a battery operated votive inside, and let the night begin to shine.
For extra fun, create a playlist and set out a Bluetooth speaker to serenade everyone while they frolic in the darkness.
Or if staying cozy at home is more your style, then do that and let the candlelight nourish your soul.
I’m confident it will soothe your spirit and soften your gaze. In my experience, it works every single time.
My wish for you is that you’ll get to experience the beauty of being present, finding and celebrating whatever brings you joy and peace this holiday season.
As my friend Oskar said recently,
“Presence isn’t a luxury. It’s the point!”
He was talking about couples being present on their wedding day, but the same truth applies, don’t you think?
Happy Analog Holidays to you! Now go light some candles!
P.S. if you’re feeling inspired to host a celebration, just click below to grab my free party planning guide!
