Advent is Here! Tips for a Heartfelt Season
Advent season is finally upon us, and it’s my favorite season of all time. Today, we often think of Christmas as a season of gift-giving, colorful trees, and a jolly old man delivering presents to children all around the world. But it’s important to remember what the season is truly about. In fact, Christmas comes from the words Christ’s Mass, it is, at its heart, a Catholic holiday. Over the years, people have found countless ways to celebrate it, some traditional, some creative, and some entirely personal.
During this Advent season, here are some meaningful ways to participate, and the best part is, these ideas aren’t just for Catholics; anyone can join in!
1. Light an Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is the most iconic symbol of the season. Each Sunday, light one candle, three purple and one rose, to mark the progression toward Christmas.
Use that moment to breathe, pray, meditate, or simply reflect. Even non-Catholics love this tradition because it creates a peaceful weekly ritual in the midst of December chaos.
2. Daily Reflection Time
Spend 5–10 minutes each day in quiet.
Catholics may read Scripture or an Advent devotional, while non-Christians can journal, meditate, or practice gratitude.
The goal is to let this season be intentional, not rushed.
3. Acts of Charity & Giving Back
Advent is a season of generosity.
Some beautiful ways to give include:
Donating toys, winter coats, or books to families in need
Supporting local shelters or children’s organizations
Participating in “giving trees” at churches or community centers
Writing encouraging letters to children in hospitals or elderly residents in nursing homes
Whether or not you’re religious, the heart of Advent is compassion.
4. The Jesse Tree
A Catholic tradition anyone can adopt.
Each day, hang an ornament symbolizing a story leading to Christ's creation, Noah’s ark, Moses, Ruth, David, and so on.
For non-Catholics, this can become a reflective storytelling tradition about genealogy, gratitude, or family values.
5. Prepare a Nativity Scene (with a Twist)
Set up a Nativity set without placing baby Jesus until Christmas.
When you do a good deed, add a piece of straw to the manger.
Kids love this, and even non-religious families use it as a kindness countdown to Christmas.
6. Try a Simple Advent Fast or Sacrifice
Historically, Advent included a light fast.
This could look like:
Limiting sugar
Choosing mindful eating
Cutting back on social media
Reducing unnecessary spending
The purpose isn’t punishment, it’s making room in your life for purpose and peace.
7. Volunteer Your Time
Use Advent to practice love in action.
Serve at a soup kitchen, wrap gifts for charity drives, visit nursing homes, or help out at community events.
Giving time is often more meaningful than giving items.
8. Celebrate the Special Feast Days
Even if you’re not Catholic, these days carry rich cultural meaning and beautiful traditions:
Dec 6 – St. Nicholas Day: Leave small treats for kids or donate to children in need.
Dec 8 – Immaculate Conception: Light a candle or honor motherhood.
Dec 12 – Our Lady of Guadalupe: Celebrate Mexican culture with flowers, food, or prayer.
Dec 13 – St. Lucy’s Day: Enjoy a day centered on light, hope, and warmth in the winter darkness.
9. Practice Gratitude & Intentional Living
Make a short list each evening of what brought you peace or joy that day.
This creates a slow, reflective rhythm that captures the heart of Advent.
10. Create Space for Joy
This season is not just solemn, it’s joyful.
Make time for cozy evenings, Christmas music, cooking for loved ones, and small traditions that bring warmth to your life.
No Matter Your Background, Advent Invites You In
Advent is about preparing our hearts, some for Christ, others simply for a season of renewal, reflection, or connection.
Whether you participate spiritually or simply embrace the quiet beauty of intentional living, this season has something to offer everyone.
xoxo,
Sarita
