CHRISTMAS can never start too early for Filipinos! Once the proverbial –ber months arrive, memorable Christmas anthems begin to fill the air with cheer and anticipation!
This year is no different. Christmas 2021 for NEARSOL began Wednesday, Sept. 1, with a school supply drive for Tahanan ng Pagmamahal, a centered community for orphaned, abandoned, and abused children in Pasig City, Manila. This Corporate Social Responsibility activity headed by Tonichi Parekh, NEARSOL Country Manager and attended to by employees of NEARSOL and staff of Tahanan ng Pagmamahal involved the distribution of school supplies. This month, NEARSOL Iloilo is set to continue the holiday cheer at Camp Sonshine and Balay Dalayunan.
Speaking of the holiday season, it’s the second we are having on lockdown. The feasts may not be the same as the years past. But we could all use the cheer despite being away from family and friends. Here’s how to make the most of your holiday celebrations this year:
* Keep the traditions that matter to you and your loved ones
Midnight mass? Puto bumbong? Bibingka? Make your own version at home. Attend a live YouTube mass and whip your favorites in the kitchen. It need not be grand nor costly. Keeping family practices alive helps keep the Christmas vibe in check.
* Make the most from online communication platforms
Pinoy Christmases are known for huge get-togethers, huge feasts, balikbayan reunions, and karaoke fests. But make this year your safest ever by avoiding gatherings. Make the most out of Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Viber, Skype, Whatsapp, and the like. Who would’ve thought that baby showers, and wedding receptions were possible with FB live? We didn’t either. But turns out, it IS possible. Follow a program and even dine together. These platforms are amazingly, not just for meetings any longer.
* Spread some laughter and joy
If there’s anything the pandemic has taught us, it’s how short life is. Spread joy when and where you can. Donate items you no longer use. Organize a food, clothing, book, or toy drive for those in need. Adopt a nursing home, orphanage, or charitable institution with a group of friends. Do ask in advance what your intended recipient needs the most. Many would benefit more from toiletries or clothing than fast food Christmas parties.
Last but not least take care of your mental health. Unemployment, loss, finances, health concerns, and death have taken their toll on our mental and emotional well-being. Give yourself the gift of calm and clarity by taking care of your mental health.
* Limit the news you watch and listen to
While we all want to stay informed, the constant streaming of news can get upsetting. Give yourself a few minutes to catch on the news then schedule an activity that brings you joy. Avoid information overload and give your mind a break. And while you’re at this, limit the use of social media as well. Social media has been notorious for spreading false information. It’s also a trigger for depression.
* Take care of yourself
You know the drill. Take care of your physical health by eating healthy, getting enough sleep, and keeping active. Avoid excesses (alcohol, food, internet use, idle time).
* Reach out
Keep in touch with friends. Social distancing doesn’t mean you can’t stay connected. Make full use of technology. Text, call, and video chat. Feeling different? Reach out to a mental health professional or medical practitioner. No shame in asking for help. Admitting that you might need professional help is a form of self-care.
This year’s holidays may be different, but it need not be a disheartening one.
Thinking of jumpstarting your career before the holidays begin? Talk to us!/PN
