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If Christmas feels a little quieter, heavier, or simply unlike years past, you’re not alone—and this conversation is for you. With the launch of Ella Podcasts just in time for the festive season, I wanted to create a space for those navigating grief, loneliness, or the aching weight of things not going as expected.

Episode 4, "Alone for Christmas & New Year," is all about those honest moments—when we wonder how to keep going, what to hold onto, and how to find pockets of calm when the world keeps spinning. In this episode, we explore why this season can feel tough and how the smallest gestures—a brief chat, a favorite tradition, or simply noticing what’s still here—can help us through. No need to pretend or force cheer; this is about finding gentle anchors and remembering that even on the hardest days, we’re still here, sharing our stories and strength.

Quotes:

· If you happen to be spending a holiday by yourself alone, it doesn't mean you need to be lonely, right?

· I think one of the very important things is to reach out to somebody and send them a warm message that will give you a lot of love.

· Doing acts of service seems to increase happiness.

Takeaways:

· Feeling lonely during the holidays is common, and it’s okay to acknowledge those emotions.

· Practical strategies like gratitude, helping others, and setting routines can improve your mood.

· Social media use should be limited to avoid increasing loneliness.

· Childhood experiences can shape holiday feelings, but healing and growth are possible.

· Small connections and personal rituals provide comfort during tough times.

Timestamps:

0:00:07 Introduction and Holiday Context

0:01:41 Reasons for Christmas Loneliness

0:04:22 Childhood Memories and Family Dynamics

0:12:47 Coping Mechanisms and Holiday Choices

0:18:14 Alone vs. Lonely and Positive Perspectives

0:20:59 Volunteering and Acts of Service

0:31:41 Building Resilience and Positivity

0:39:35 Social media, New Year, and Reflection

0:46:49 Final Positive Tips and Episode Wrap-up

Conclusion:

This episode reminds us that tough seasons don't require pretending everything is fine. When life feels overwhelming or different, it’s often the small anchors—gratitude, connection, and kindness—that help us through. Whether you're spending Christmas or New Year on your own or feeling the weight of change, we hope our conversation helps you feel steadier and a little less alone. Remember, you have the power to reach out, reflect, and embrace even the smallest moments of comfort. Wishing you warmth, hope, and the gentle reassurance that you’re still here, moving forward.

Links:

Ella Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@EllaPodcasts-z9v

Ella Podcast Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089

Ella Sherman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ella-sherman/

Dr. Jonathan Marshall’s LinkedIn:

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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