As we enter the holiday season, connecting with family and loved ones can be very important. However, many are struggling with loneliness and isolation as the COVID-19 pandemic continues into it’s third year. These feelings can be more intense around the holiday season and we want to share just a few tips on how to remain connected with loved ones you may not be able to see in person this year.

1. Screen Sharing Movie Nights: Who said that movie nights can’t happen long-distance? There are many streaming services that offer group-related viewing options, such as Teleparty, Amazon Prime Video Watch Party, Hulu Watch Party, among others. Grab a bowl of your favorite snacks and enjoy a new hit movie with your loved ones this season!
2. Book Club: Reading can connect people who may not be together physically. If you know someone who values reading in their free time, finding a book to share with a loved one can be a fun way to connect. Share your thoughts, reactions, and feelings after you’ve finished the book and see what they have to say as well.
3. Video Chat Parties: There are so many video chat services available for free. Scheduling time to chat with loved ones is a simple and cost-effective way to engage with one another. The best part is that you can do nearly anything over video chat! Some ideas include playing chess together, solving crossword puzzles, baking desserts, making art, or, if you really want to be festive, you could make gingerbread houses together! If you gifted something to a loved one, have them open it while video chatting to enjoy their reactions. The options are limitless, so get creative and have fun!
4. Letter Writing: Sometimes old-fashioned ways of communication can connect us on a deeper level. This year, grab your favorite stationary and write a letter to your loved ones. You can make the packaging as creative as you’d like to connect with your artistic side as well. The thought, care, and effort it takes to write a letter to someone is a wonderful gift to give.

However you choose to connect, we at Simply Thrive wish you the best as you enter this holiday season. Take time to focus on yourself and your loved ones to enter the new year feeling refreshed and rewarded.