The holiday season is a whirlwind for many of us. Between decorating, shopping, wrapping gifts, hosting dinners, and the inevitable last-minute panic over forgotten items, it can feel like there's barely a moment to breathe.
For some, the twinkling lights and cheerful carols are a source of joy; for others, this time of year brings a heavy dose of seasonal depression.
Seasonal depression, often called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), tends to peak during the darker, colder months. With shorter days and the weight of holiday expectations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or isolated, even in the midst of a crowd.
I’ve discovered that combating the winter blues requires intention—and sometimes a bit of wax and wick.
This year, I’ve found a new way to embrace the season and fight off those gloomy days: hosting candle-pouring sessions with friends, using gift cards as a creative excuse to make it all happen.
Here’s why it works and how it’s bringing light—literally and figuratively—into my life.
The Holidays Can Feel Lonely—Even When You’re Busy
Amid all the hustle and bustle, the holidays can sometimes amplify feelings of loneliness.
The pressure to “be merry” can leave us feeling out of sync with the world if we’re not in the mood to celebrate. Personally, I’ve found myself caught in that trap—busy, yet disconnected.
But I’ve learned that one of the best antidotes to loneliness is connection. And connection doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or elaborate plans. Sometimes, it’s as simple as gathering a few friends around a shared activity.
A Candle-Pouring Twist on Holiday Gatherings
Candles have always been my go-to for creating a cozy atmosphere and sparking creativity.
This year, I decided to take it a step further by turning candle-making into a communal experience. I’ve been handing out gift cards to friends, inviting them to redeem them for a candle-pouring session at our studio.
The idea was simple: use the gift cards as an incentive to carve out time for each other.
It’s amazing how easy it is to say, “Let’s hang out soon,” only for weeks to pass by without meeting.
A scheduled event, tied to something tangible, helps break that cycle.
Why Candle-Making Works Wonders
There’s something magical about pouring candles.
The process is meditative: melting the wax, choosing scents, and watching your creation take shape.
It’s grounding and gives everyone a chance to slow down and be present. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to walk away with a finished product—a candle that’s not just beautiful but also a symbol of the time spent together.
For me, these sessions have become a double blessing. They give me a chance to reconnect with friends, while also brightening my own days.
The warm glow of a candle doesn’t just light up a room; it lights up my mood, too.
Small Steps, Big Impact
If you’re feeling the weight of seasonal depression this holiday season, I encourage you to find your version of candle-pouring sessions.
It could be baking cookies with your family, crafting ornaments with neighbors, or hosting a hot cocoa night. The activity itself isn’t as important as the connections it fosters.
And if you’re someone who loves candles, consider giving the gift of light this year—both literally and through the time you share with others.
Those moments of connection can make all the difference.
A Brighter Holiday Season
The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
In fact, it’s often the small, imperfect moments that stick with us the most.
This year, I’m embracing the chaos, the imperfection, and the joy of doing something small but impactful with the people I care about. And I hope that, in some small way, you can too.
Here’s to finding light in the darkness and joy in the midst of the hustle. Wishing you a season filled with warmth, connection, and just a little bit of wax.
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