December and the first weeks of January have a notable impact on one’s well-being. For most families, it brings more closeness and better social and mental well-being. The holidays also promote group gatherings. Best friends who barely have time because of work get to meet up, extended family members or friends hang out, and so much more. This social ritual helps reduce loneliness, especially for older family members who live alone and barely get the chance to interact much with their children and grandchildren during the year.

I was lucky enough and blessed to have experienced this during the just-ended holiday season. My siblings and I could visit our parents and spend some days at home with them; I finally had uninterrupted video calls with my grandparents, who usually called on weekdays while I was busy at work. I met up with my best friends and even hung out with colleagues from work. I can’t even explain how much these interactions prepared me mentally for the new year.

The holidays have positively impacted my emotions, and my participation in family celebrations improved my physical well-being. For once, during the holidays, I was satisfied with my blessed life.