How to Celebrate Holidays Mindfully

“Holidays are not an escape from life — they’re a gentle reminder to live it slowly.”
— Priya Sharma

The meaning of holidays has changed drastically in my life. Initially, they meant going out, hanging out with friends, window shopping, or dining out. That’s not just me — it’s everyone, right? I think that’s because of the mindset we have as teenagers or adolescents.

Now that I’m grown up and have hit 30, I feel that holidays are meant for resetting, unwinding, relaxing, doing nothing, and just lounging in pyjamas. I’ve become a homebody. The idea of simply being and doing nothing thrills my heart to another level. Trust me, it’s not an exaggeration. It’s a drastic mindset shift.

I know, I know — teens will probably say, “She’s old now.” Sorry, kids, but I actually feel younger now because I do whatever I love and whatever I want. I’ve done all those things that teens do today to feel “cool.” I’ve kind of tried everything. I cherish experimenting, exploring, and experiencing new things. But I believe there’s a saturation point for everything. When you reach that point, you realize it’s time to let go of superficial things. You begin to feel more grounded.

But let me give a small disclaimer here — if you’re constantly cribbing about your life, you can never achieve happiness, even on your best vacation. You’ll always find yourself comparing your life to others on social media. “I went to Vietnam, but they went to Paris. Oh no!” This kind of comparison will pierce your heart like a dagger.

Holidays can be spent in the comfort of your home as well. It’s all about perspective. For me, home is the best place to spend my holidays. I even prefer in-house parties. No matter where you are, happiness is what truly matters.

Imagine this — you go out to celebrate a holiday and order your favourite dish. The restaurant is crowded, so your order takes time. You stay patient. Finally, your order arrives, but it’s not up to your expectations. You lose it and start yelling at the poor waiter. Your mood crashes, and suddenly, nothing feels fun anymore. Eventually, you return home — and that’s where you find your peace.

And for those who think you can’t have many new experiences at home — I agree a hundred percent! You must go out for holidays too. But you should be mature enough to understand that when you’re out, things won’t always go your way. Accepting that truth is the key to staying peaceful and happy, no matter where you are.

Also, there shouldn’t be comparisons or show-offs. You don’t need to spend lakhs on every vacation. It can be a short and sweet staycation too. I hope I’ve made my point clear — one can celebrate anywhere, anytime. Like I said, it’s just about perspective.

Start celebrating small joys and little wins. Celebrate when someone gives you a compliment, when you make your comfort food, when you learn a new skill, when you reach the office on time, when you make someone happy, when you sip your favourite coffee — the list is endless. Yet, we often wait for holidays to celebrate. Think about it, and your life will become so much easier.

This is how I celebrate my holidays. What’s your idea of celebrating them?