While some argue that holiday decorating far ahead of the actual holiday is absurd, there are several positive health benefits to consider. So, is starting your festivities sooner than later justified? When it comes to your health, perhaps. Let’s explore how embracing holiday traditions and rituals well ahead of time can be good for your well-being.
It can boost mood and reduce stress.
That’s right. If you’re in the holiday spirit, decorating early can have a positive impact on your mood. For many, the anticipation of the holidays brings feelings of joy and excitement. By surrounding yourself with festive decorations, you can tap into these positive emotions even sooner. This can be particularly beneficial as the days grow shorter and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) becomes more prevalent.
It enhances social interactions and connection.
Decorations are a conversation starter and a way to connect with neighbors and friends. When you decorate early, you create opportunities for social interactions that might not happen otherwise. Whether it’s a friendly chat with a neighbor about your spooky Halloween setup or a family gathering to put up holiday lights, these interactions can strengthen your social bonds, which have been linked to better mental health.
It gets you moving.
Decorating for the holidays is not just a mental boost; it also encourages physical activity. From pacing your property to carrying boxes of decorations, the process might serve as a light workout. Engaging in these activities is a simple way to burn a few calories which could mean an extra piece of pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving dinner this year.
It gets you thinking.
Whether you’re crafting homemade ornaments or designing an ornate display, the process allows you to express yourself and engage in mindfulness. According to the CDC, mindfulness, or the practice of being present in the moment, has been shown to help people manage everyday stress and emotions. This can improve overall mental health. Next time you decorate think about how it helps you focus on the task at hand and enjoy what you’re doing in the moment.
So next time you think of giving your neighbor a hard time about those August pumpkins or the October sleigh bells, remember this: maybe they’re partaking in more than just the holiday spirit, but in positive mental health as well.
