FRIENDSGIVING
Host a Friendsgiving gathering with your friends and/or colleagues who are also away from their families or home. Share the cooking responsibilities and enjoy a potluck-style feast!
TREAT YOURSELF
Take this opportunity to have someone else do the cooking. Treating yourself to a meal at a local restaurant can be a great way to try something new while avoiding the cooking and cleaning.
GET CRAFTY
There's something special about gathering for a day of crafts, especially during the fall months. You can collect the season's best staples - colourful leaves, apples and pinecones - to turn them into gorgeous fall decorations!
HIKING & GRATITUDE
Go for a hike or nature walk and take time to reflect on the things you're thankful for. Enjoy a simple meal outdoors and savour the beauty of nature.
BE A TOURIST
Check out local landmarks, parks, or community events. Embrace the local culture by trying traditional dishes from the place you're currently living. This can be a fun way to blend your own traditions with new ones and immerse yourself in the local culture.
CULTURAL EXCHANGE
Invite friends or acquaintances from different cultural backgrounds to share their own holiday traditions and dishes. This can lead to a diverse and memorable celebration.
VOLUNTEER
Spend the day volunteering at a local shelter or food bank to give back to the community and make new friends in the process.
VIRTUAL THANKSGIVING
Set up a video call with your family and friends to celebrate virtually. Share your meal and catch up with loved ones from afar.
SELF-CARE DAY
Dedicate the day to self-care. Take a long bath, read a book, meditate, and pamper yourself. Reflect on what you're thankful for in terms of personal growth and well-being.
JOURNAL OR SCRAPBOOK
Start a Thanksgiving journal or scrapbook where you fill the pages with memories, photos, and things you are thankful for each year. It's a wonderful tradition to look back on over time.
KICKBACK & RELAX
Organize a game night or movie marathon. Popcorn and cozy blankets can make it feel like a classic Thanksgiving at home.
Remember, the essence of Thanksgiving is gratitude and togetherness, so find a way that makes you feel thankful and connected, whether that's with friends, the community, or even just yourself.
Additional Resources
- Read A Thankful Thanksgiving - What are you grateful for this season? Click here to explore the many benefits of gratitude written by Anne-Marie Beliveau, MA, MSW, RSW
- Check out The Wellness Wheel - Wellness involves balancing all areas of your life and having the mindfulness to adapt as needed. Discover how to thrive in each aspect.
- Here are our go-to Mood Boosters - Feeling a little blah-ish? Here are a few activities that are known "Mood Boosters"
