As we have officially approached the holidays, it is such a warming time to be with family, have gratitude, and celebrate with family. Along with that is also finals, hectic class schedule, studying ,etc. In college it can be a bit hard to get into the holiday spirit being that it’s such a busy time but I want to share some ways I’ve started incorporating in my life to get me into the holiday spirit.
- Getting cozy matching pajamas
This is the best possible thing I could have done to get into the holiday spirit. I found my pajamas at my local Walmart for less than $15 and I wear them every night after a warm shower. Walking around and doing my night routine in my pajamas, honesty brings me so much joy.
- Having a night routine
I know, I know seeing the word routine and thinking like geez- not another 10 step unrealistic routine. Having a routine that is catered toward you and your schedule. I believe that this is important because after a long day- it gives you something to look forward to- that being said, be sure you make it a bit fun. My favorite part of my night routine is making tea or hot chocolate and getting into bed turning on Spongebob or The Polar Express.
- Putting up decorations
Last night, my roommate and I put up Christmas decorations in our living room. This was such a pure moment and brought so much joy to our hearts. Putting up decorations and a Christmas tree is just a small activity that will help us to stay positive during the hectic times of finals and the holiday season.
- Listening to Holiday and country music
This is a game changer. I am typically a huge rap music gal but I noticed that turning on holiday music and even a Christmas fireplace ambience just brings me so much peace. Also I’m so late to the country music theme but I started listening to country music the last few months and it’s just changed my mindset- because country music is all about the good things in life-family, love, God,etc it’s hard to go into a sad mindset listening to music of that sort. So I would say add a few Christmas and country songs to your playlist and see how it makes you feel.
- Get a holiday Drink at Starbucks
The holiday cups at Starbucks are honestly what got me through last Christmas. I don’t know what it is about a cold day in November/December and holding a warm beverage. I used to be a barista at Starbucks for 4 years so I remember the friendly event and feeling when working there. I also do have some drink recommendations for you guys to try.
Drinks to try:
- Caramel apple spice
- Peppermint mocha
- Toasted white mocha
- Toasted vanilla
- Chestnut praline latte
- Peppermint white hot chocolate
- Make Christmas lists for gifts
This is a fun activity to do especially if you’re similar to me and enjoy writing, drawing, and doing calligraphy. In your free time you can make note cards of different things to get the people around you- rather than for the upcoming secret Santa’s, work parties, or pajama parties. You can make holiday themed cards and jot down all your ideas and budgets.
- Go ice skating
My boyfriend and I went ice skating over thanksgiving break and it was such a fun experience. It felt like such a good way to get into the holiday spirit and a way to spend quality time with someone you love. Ice skating was sort of hard but after using the assistance for 45 minutes- we finally were able to skate on our own. The crisp air, sunshine, and smiles was memorable.
- Lighting candles
I am a candle lighter no matter the time of year but there’s something special about getting the lighter and lighting that warm vanilla scent and sitting in the living room glaring at your Christmas tree. Imagine getting a wood burning candle and it just smells like a cozy Christmas vibez.
- Christmas coloring books
This is simply an activity that you can do by yourself or with friends. There are many different types of coloring books at Dollar Tree, Five Below, Walmart, etc. You can grab some friends and even some tea or wine and have a little sip and coloring night.
- Going to see the Christmas tree lighting or Christmas lights
This was my favorite thing I did last year. My family and I all piled in the car and went down the road to ride through and see the Christmas lights, my little nephew was so astonished – it was the cutest thing ever. Riding through with the cool breeze and Christmas music on- it was such a fun moment to share- even if it’s by yourself.
I hope these 10 proposals gave you an idea of what you can do being a college student trying to get into the holiday spirit. Happy Holidays!
Xoxo jas.