Retirement is a time of new beginnings it also forces us to shift our daily routines and social
connections, which are essential for mental and emotional well-being. The
holidays are stressful, so keeping connections strong is important but it is particularly
important around the holiday season. Nurturing connections can make a big
difference in your sense of fulfillment and happiness during the Stress of the holiday
season.

The shift to retirement can affect us in various ways,
especially when it comes to social life. For many of us, work provided daily
interaction with people we called friends, when we retire those connections may
fade. When we lose these connections there is a gap. Regular social
interactions help protect us from Depression, reduce our stress, and keep our
mind sharp. A strong social network where we can engage with others, share
stories, and create memories contributes to a richer, healthier life, bringing comfort,
joy, and stability to you.

The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity to
rekindle connections and build new ones. If possible, you could host a small
get-together with family or friends to celebrate, whether it’s a dinner, a
movie night, or a simple afternoon tea. If gathering in person isn’t feasible,
plan a video call with your loved ones. You could even arrange virtual
activities, like decorating cookies together or opening gifts on screen. This
was a popular option during the lockdown caused by COVID, perhaps it still has
a place when families cannot be together. My daughter and her family live in
Australia, so we get to celebrate a Zoom Xmas with them on the 25^th
their time, but it is the 24^th our time. So, the benefit is we get
two days of Christmas.

My senior center has a Christmas lunch, as well as choir
singing and many other festive activities before Christmas. We are not
alone  as there are many community
centers and churches that host seasonal gatherings, performances, and dinners. If
you join in these events you will be welcome and it is a great way to meet new
people and feel connected to your community.

In my local community Facebook group, someone new to the
community asked about how to volunteer over the holidays. Participating in
holiday charity events is meaningful way
to connect with others and make a positive impact. Volunteering can add a new
purpose to the holiday season and introduce you to others with similar interests.

Originally Published on https://boomersnotsenior.blogspot.com/

Royce Shook Blogger

I served as a teacher, a teacher on Call, a Department Head, a District Curriculum, Specialist, a Program Coordinator, and a Provincial Curriculum Coordinator over a forty year career. In addition, I was the Department Head for Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a professor both online and in person at the University of Phoenix (Canada) from 2000-2010.

I also worked with Special Needs students. I gave workshops on curriculum development and staff training before I fully retired