The holidays often highlight the joy of togetherness, but for many, this season is a reminder of what’s missing. The loneliness epidemic—exacerbated by societal disconnection and personal grief—often intensifies during this time of year. Whether navigating the loss of loved ones, fractured relationships, or a lingering sense of isolation, many feel left out of the communal warmth associated with the season.
Our Own Deep Wells is an organization dedicated to guiding people through these challenging times with accessible tools and compassionate support. When resourced, individuals can move beyond loneliness to rediscover meaningful connections with themselves and their communities through soulful practices.
Here are three practices that you can try as the days get shorter and darkness descends on the northern hemisphere. Any of these practices can help you invite a soulful moment as you approach the Winter Solstice and other upcoming holidays with friends and family or in quiet solitude.
May You Never Thirst: Read Dori’s reflections on the origin of this practice and think about your own connections to water. Reach out to a friend or someone you’d like to get to know. Read through the practice a few times, then invite your friend to join you in person or over a call for hydration and reflection as you lead this simple exercise and converse with what bubbles up.
Grounding in Body and Earth: Read Anna’s reflections on her journey with her Dad to her ancestral home of Peru. Try this practice alone or with a friend as you prepare for a potentially conflictual family gathering or as you step into spending a holiday in solitude.
Nourishment After Protest: If you have taken part in recent protests, campus encampments, or political campaigns, this practice could be a welcome way to heal, grieve, and store up joy for the uncertain days ahead. As we approach MLK Day, may this practice remind us that rest and joy are essential to justice building.
Here are three suggestions for nurturing yourself and your needs during the holiday season and winter months.
Take time for yourself in the mornings to write and reflect. Julia Cameron writes about a soulful practice called “Morning Pages” which includes stream of consciousness writing. It’s ok to close the door and make time for rituals.
Write out your boundaries and needs before seeing family. Begin with a simple prompt: “I need _____ to feel seen and held while together.” If it feels good to do so, share with your family.
Move your body in nature! Whether you are crammed in a house with many people and need solitude, or you are alone and need to feel connection, nature offers space for slowing down and connecting to the divine. Get outside!
By tapping into personal reflection, rituals of connection, and a deeper understanding of shared humanity, Our Own Deep Wells offers practical and soulful ways to bridge the gap between longing and belonging. You can access more transformative practices on our website, through our podcast LIVE to Tell, or by contacting us directly.
We at OODW wish blessings upon you and hope that you find rest, renewed hope, and connection in the coming weeks.
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