Can Celebrating Small Holidays Improve Joy
The holiday season often brings to mind large celebrations with family gatherings, elaborate decorations, and major festivities. Yet many people overlook the power of smaller, more intimate celebrations to boost happiness and well-being. Small holidays and personal celebrations can actually play a significant role in improving joy and mental health throughout the year.
When we think about joy, we often imagine grand moments. However, research and mental health experts suggest that smaller celebrations can be just as meaningful, if not more so. The key lies in how we approach these moments and what we choose to focus on during them.
One of the most important aspects of celebrating small holidays is setting realistic expectations. Rather than striving for picture-perfect celebrations that match social media images, focusing on what feels meaningful and manageable creates a more authentic experience. This approach reduces stress and allows people to actually enjoy the moment instead of worrying about whether everything is perfect. When expectations are realistic, disappointment decreases and satisfaction increases.
Small celebrations also provide regular opportunities to connect with loved ones. Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends, a small family gathering, or even a personal milestone celebration, these moments of connection reduce feelings of loneliness and provide valuable support. Research shows that maintaining connections with loved ones is especially important for mental health, and small holidays offer natural occasions to strengthen these bonds without the pressure of major events.
Taking time to celebrate small moments encourages people to practice gratitude and mindfulness. When we pause to acknowledge and celebrate something, even if it’s minor, we train our minds to notice positive aspects of life. This practice of identifying what is most important and focusing on gratitude can increase happiness and shift our perspective toward the good things happening around us.
Small celebrations also help maintain healthy routines and self-care practices. During major holiday seasons, routines often get disrupted, which can worsen anxiety and depression. By celebrating smaller occasions throughout the year, people can maintain more consistent patterns of rest, nutrition, and exercise. These healthy habits make a huge difference in mental health and overall well-being.
Physical activity during celebrations, even simple activities like taking a walk or playing a game, provides real benefits. Just five minutes of physical activity can stimulate anti-anxiety effects. When small celebrations include movement or time in nature, they become even more powerful tools for managing stress and improving mood.
Another benefit of small holiday celebrations is that they provide a sense of structure and something to look forward to. Having regular occasions to celebrate, even if they are personal or unconventional, gives life rhythm and purpose. This anticipation and the celebration itself can boost mood and create positive memories.
Small celebrations also allow people to set boundaries and create their own traditions. Rather than feeling obligated to participate in large family events that might be stressful, people can design celebrations that work for them. This autonomy helps reduce stress and allows individuals to create joy on their own terms.
For people dealing with mental health challenges, small celebrations can be particularly valuable. A NAMI study showed that 64 percent of people with mental illness report that holidays make their conditions worse. However, by creating smaller, more controlled celebrations, people can experience the joy of marking special occasions without the overwhelming stress that larger events might bring.
The act of celebrating itself, even in small ways, sends a message to ourselves that we deserve joy and that our lives matter. Whether it’s treating yourself to something you enjoy, spending quiet time with someone you care about, or simply acknowledging a personal achievement, these small celebrations affirm that happiness is worth pursuing and creating.
Small holidays and celebrations also offer opportunities to volunteer or help others, which provides comfort and reduces feelings of isolation. By connecting with community through small acts of kindness or service, people feel more connected and experience greater well-being.
The beauty of celebrating small holidays is that they are flexible and personal. They do not require expensive decorations, elaborate planning, or large gatherings. A small celebration might be as simple as lighting a candle, sharing a meal with one person, taking time for a favorite activity, or acknowledging a personal milestone. These simple acts can have profound effects on joy and mental health.
By recognizing the value of small celebrations throughout the year, people can create more consistent opportunities for joy, connection, and well-being. Rather than waiting for major holidays to experience happiness, small celebrations allow joy to become a regular part of life. This approach to celebrating can lead to improved mental health, stronger relationships, and a greater overall sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Sources
https://www.gatewayfoundation.org/blog/supporting-mental-health-during-the-holidays/
https://thelovettcenter.com/mental-health-during-the-holidays/
https://namiwla.org/blog/maintaining-mental-health-during-the-holidays-2024/
https://today.duke.edu/2025/11/beat-holiday-stress-strategies-protect-your-peace
