In a year that’s felt like the worst year in history, the twinkling promise of joy for the Holiday season is keeping many people’s spirits high right now. There are so many traditions from putting up a Christmas tree, getting out the menorah, wrapping gifts, and making cookies, the holiday season can bring out of us feelings of happiness, love, goodwill, and cheer. And let’s get real, we can all use these feelings right now!
I’m currently in California and the whole state is shut down once again. We can’t leave the house except for exercising and essential reasons, and it feels a little sad to just decorate for myself. No one can come into my house, I’m not having any parties this year, and I’ll be calling my family members over zoom. But decorating makes me feel good. Decorate for yourself! Whenever you look at that tree, or those cookies, or lights, you can’t help but smile!
I’m putting up decorations for self care!
Decorations are also important because you’re spending so much time at your house this year! It’s not like we’re visiting grandmas house, or going out to eat, or even going to those traditional parties, but you HAVE to hang out at home, so why not make your space as magical as possible. Give yourself that joy!
Putting up Decorations can have psychological benefits.
Putting up decorations can remind you of good times and the connections you have to your family and those objects. You might pick up and ornament or a candle and remember the last time you used it or where you bought it. Objects carry memories and you should be remembering the good times right now.
“’I think everything that you can do to make your home cozier and more celebratory this winter can only help your mental state,’ says Heather Garbutt, psychotherapist and director of The Counseling & Psychotherapy Centre.[1]
By decorating, you’re creating something different in your otherwise normal environment, so you’re lifting your mood by the difference that you’re seeing. Might we suggest fairy lights, or even just add a fun new candle! The scene can make you smile!
You’re bringing yourself back to childhood!
Remember the excitement of decorating when you were a kid? You got to drink hot cocoa (see our amazing Peppermint Cocoa recipe on our blog), and decide where to place all those nutcrackers? Everything seemed magical back then. Why not make an event out of it again! Spike that hot chocolate with some peppermint schnapps and make the biggest snowman you can in your front yard, or write cards to your friends to send out? Bring back your joy of childhood!
Create a Ritual and find Happiness
A study out of Harvard University states that the act of creating a ritual brings comfort, especially during hard times.[2] By creating the ritual of decorating, you’re able to help your mental wellbeing!
Doing things that bring you joy right now!
There’s no reason not to decorate, even if it’s only for your self. Bring a little happiness into your home and reframe your mindset to enjoy the little things, like decorating, or smelling your brand new candle.
[1] “Putting Your Christmas Decorations up Early Is Good for You.” Good Housekeeping, Good Housekeeping, 13 Nov. 2020, www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/christmas/a34642563/christmas-decorations-early-benefits/.
[2]Norton, Michael I, and Francesca Gino. “Rituals Alleviate Grieving for Loved Ones, Lovers, and Lotteries.” Harvard Business School, Journal of Experimental Psychology, 2013.
