Celebrating Diwali Alone? Try These Psychology-Approved Tips to Feel Good

Diwali

is one of the biggest festivals we celebrate in India – and it is the time for happiness and fun. Most people – those who live and work outside try to travel home to spend this festival of lights with their family and friends – do get-togethers, eat, and make merry. However, for a lot of us, there are many reasons as to why celebrating the festival with our loved ones might turn out to be increasingly difficult – and you may end up alone in Diwali. And so, if you are in such a situation, here are some things you can do to help you not feel sad, stressed, and depressed.

Opt for virtual celebration

With technology reaching far and wide, it is easier to connect with your family and friends than ever before. Make sure to schedule video calls to share Diwali wishes, exchange stories, and feel a sense of togetherness. You can also hold a virtual celebration by doing Diwali puja together – and it can give you a sense of calm and happiness. According to experts, meaningful connections are a primary driver of mental health, and humans are naturally social creatures. Despite the fact that digital connections can not replace in-person interactions, they could nevertheless foster an experience of networking and belonging, which helps lower feelings of loneliness.

Decorate your space

Despite being all alone, make sure not to let the festival spirit go down. According to psychologists, the space around you makes a lot of difference to your mental health. So, put in some effort to decorate your home with diyas, candles, and festive lights. According to experts, happiness releases a hormone - oxytocin, also known as the "happy" hormone - which provides an experience of fulfilment and reason. You could shift your focus out of your loneliness to the bigger picture of society by giving during Diwali.

Make some new customs

While you may be alone, there is no need to feel lonely. It can give you a chance to establish new customs like painting diyas or hosting a Diwali party with colleagues and acquaintances - transforming what could otherwise feel like a lonely experience into something unique and significant Think of burning candles while listening to traditional music or viewing endearing films that capture the essence of Diwali. This is your opportunity to personalize the festival.

Indulge in relaxation and self-care

Make sure to spend some time taking care of yourself during Diwali if you are by yourself. Yoga, meditation, taking a warm bath, or just listening to relaxing music are a few things you can do. You may apply the theme of Diwali—the triumph of light over darkness—to your mental health by emphasizing rest and self-care. By practicing mindfulness, you can also use this time to detox from stress. Try yoga to relieve stress or a guided meditation to relax your mind.