Staffers share ways to productively and pleasantly spend the holidays by yourself

Winter break is an ideal time to focus on yourself and take a break from the demands of school and outside activities. Taking “me-time” can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s reading a book by the fireplace, relishing safety from the frosty winter weather (a low of 52 degrees). For others, it could be jumping up and down in the rain while listening to a new favorite song....

Sometimes, spending time alone can make you feel isolated from friends and family. It can feel like no one is reaching out to you either because they forgot to, or they simply don’t want to. However, when experiencing these thoughts, it’s important to recognize that you’ve been given too much time to question things you already know are true. So instead of waiting for that text from someone else,...

If all else fails, Netflix and Hulu are always there to transport you to worlds of fantasy and adventure. Maybe that adventure is competitive chess, maybe it’s the ballroom scene of the 1980’s or maybe it’s a post apocalyptic nightmare. Whatever you choose, don’t fall victim to the too-good-to-be-true pirating websites that will viciously infect your device with many a virus. One great show...

Long breaks from school are great opportunities to focus your energies on pursuits that you’re too busy for during the semester. How could you possibly learn how to knit when you have a long essay question or a vocab go-around to prepare for? Thus, this winter break, take time to learn a new hobby, whether it be needle-felting, knitting, learning a new instrument or even a new language. There’s...

One of the most fulfilling yet still enjoyable activities to do by yourself during the holidays (and frankly all year) is to volunteer. Volunteering is such an amazing way to give back to the community and to those in need, especially during the holidays. You can go sign up to volunteer through a formal organization such as the Community Service Agency in Palo Alto or Martha’s Kitchen in San Jose....

Baking is a sure way to distract yourself and, at the same time, eat plenty of baked goods during the holiday. Baking can be very therapeutic, especially when done alone. It is a great way to disconnect from the electronics while still having fun. Instead of spending your days locked up in your room, get your hands dirty, and try baking something you wouldn’t normally bake. Baking is a way...