It took her 36 years to record the perfect birthday video — and it's proof we've all been doing it wrong

Growing up doesn’t prepare you for a multitude of changes that are going to take place in your life, and birthday celebrations are one of them. With every single candle added to our cake, we tend to move away from where we originated and go out on a quest for a new place to call home. We tend to celebrate our birthdays with our partner, friends, colleagues, and roommates, but may laugh at the idea of doing it with those who were there before any of them were. Deniz Kayiket — who goes by the username @denizyy on Instagram — shared a video of her 36th birthday party, showing us how to really celebrate it.

Our birthdays are special days when people who love us celebrate our existence; unfortunately, it has only been limited to our acquired family and not our actual one, but Deniz tries her best to change the scenario. She celebrated her birthday in her homeland after 19 years, and the last time her dad was present there was 30 years ago. She has always loved to celebrate her special day with her roommate, partner, and at other times with friends, but never at a place where she felt truly at home.

She took a trip to Bali on her 28th birthday. She enjoyed it thoroughly, while also celebrating at a makeshift 30th birthday party when she had just moved to LA. When she found her way back home, she finally felt like she belonged — permanently. She also showed us the best way to record a birthday video by filming from her perspective while her family cheered and clapped for her. Turns out, we have been recording these videos all wrong through the decades. The prime focus should rest on those who celebrate us, our existence, and partake in our joy.

A study by Darja Rojaka and others states, “Birthday is seen as an opportunity to spend time with friends and family, have a break from daily responsibilities, and receive attention from people around them.” It's a day truly dedicated to those who enrich your life, cherish you, and hold life's pieces together. Dr. Joshua shares, “Celebrating birthdays can have a significant impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Birthdays are an opportunity to express gratitude, acknowledge growth, and celebrate life. They are a time to surround ourselves with loved ones, build deeper connections, and experience the joy of human connection.” Therefore, celebrating your birthday with your family can have a beautiful impact on your heart, creating lasting core memories that grow into a foundation of happiness as the years wear on.

After watching the wholesome video, @draxsocial exclaimed, “Instead of recording yourself, you should record those who are happy for you for having another year of your life,” while @erikamichelle___ sighed, “…oof. This was powerful! I’m so happy you have this peace in your heart. So beautiful. Wishing you the happiest birthday!” Finally, @nichickaa wrote, “This makes so much sense… seeing the beautiful happy faces of people who genuinely love and celebrate you is just pure gold.”

You can follow Deniz Kayiket (@denizyy) on Instagram for more wholesome content.