How Decorating Early For Christmas Can Transform Your Space and Your Mood

The twinkling lights, the shiny ornaments, the festive wreaths, and the scent of pine — the holiday season is upon us and so is the magic that will transform your home into a winter wonderland. I love the holiday season. It’s when everywhere you look, there’s something magical happening (and not in the literal sense). It’s the serene decorations that bring my heart peace.

In my home, Christmas Carols start blaring in the last week of November, which lasts through the first week of January. My friends call me crazy, but what they don’t understand is that celebrating the holidays early can help you boost your spirits, not only your home.

Yes, it turns out putting up those cheerful decorations a little earlier has more to it than just spreading holiday cheer; early holiday decorations might make you happier.

So, what are you waiting for? Scroll down and keep reading to learn the reasons why you should decorate for Christmas early and how it can make your holiday more special than you might’ve imagined.

What Research Says…

Psychologists and researchers alike have studied the psychology behind our love for holiday decorations. One key thing they found was the link between decorations and nostalgia. Dr. Alan Hirsch, a neurologist and psychiatrist, suggests that holiday decorations can trigger positive memories associated with past celebrations, adding to your sense of joy and contentment.

Moreover, the visual stimuli of colorful lights and festive decor can stimulate the release of endorphins and dopamine, those feel-good hormones that contribute to our overall sense of happiness.

Amy Morin, a psychotherapist, confirmed the idea of nostalgia adding to your happiness. She says, “Nostalgia connects people to their past and helps them understand who they are,”

Isn’t that one of the reasons why you should decorate your house and heart for Christmas early? Well, if this couldn’t convince you yet, then I have a list of reasons why you should decorate for holidays early — for your happiness sake!

Why You Should Put Up Holiday Decorations Early?

1. It Extends Joyful Anticipation

Putting up holiday decorations early extends the period of joyful anticipation. The excitement and happiness that is related to the holiday season can start earlier, bringing you a longer duration of positive anticipation. In short, your dopamine and endorphins rush starts early and lasts long!

2. It Creates a Cozy Atmosphere

Doesn’t Christmas feel so magical? Well, that’s what early decorations can do too. Early decorations can transform your living space into a cozy retreat. The warm glow of lights, the festive colors, and the overall ambiance can create a welcoming atmosphere, making your home a comforting space during the winter days. Plus, it gives you earlier access to Hygge living; so, all in all, you’re all good.

3. It Connects Us With Our Loved Ones

Holidays are often sentimental, and so are the decoration items that have been passed down from generation to generation. Even if not hereditary, you must have received gifts from loved ones. Putting these decorations early can offer you a longer period of connection with your loved ones through these items, bringing a sense of family and tradition.

4. It Spreads Joy to Others

Early decorations don’t just benefit you; they can bring joy to those around you. Your festive home and decorations might inspire your neighbors, friends, and even strangers to do the same, spreading the holiday spirit throughout your community.

5. It Reduces Your Stress

Moreover, the holiday season can be hectic – with all the shopping, planning, and whatnot. Putting decorations early can create a serene environment that can act as a stress reliever, helping you feel less stressed when you’re busy with all the preparations.

Also Read: How to Deal with Holiday Stress (Tips for Coping)

Tips to Mindfully Decorate Your Home

Now that you know why you should decorate for Christmas early, here are some tips to help you do this mindfully;

1. Be Minimal and Declutter

Mindful decorating often involves simplicity. Consider decluttering your space before adding holiday decorations. This not only makes your decorations stand out more but also creates a calm atmosphere.

2. Be Meaningful

Choose decorations that hold significance. Whether they are ornaments passed down through generations or handmade crafts from loved ones, incorporating meaningful items adds to your decor and brings out the sentimental value of the season.

3. Be Mindful of Lighting

Try to choose soft, warm lighting for a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using candles, fairy lights, or string lights with warm tones. Mindful lighting can create a serene ambiance and contribute to a sense of calm during the busy holiday season.

Also Read: 30 Ways to Spread Positive Vibes

4. Be Grateful

As you decorate, take moments to be grateful for the abundance in your life. Whether through a simple mindfulness exercise or incorporating a gratitude ritual into your holiday traditions, acknowledge the positive aspects of the season.

5. Involve Your Loved Ones

You can turn decorating into a shared experience by involving family and friends. Whether it’s crafting ornaments together or sharing stories while putting up decorations, involving your loved ones can create a meaningful experience and strengthen the sense of togetherness.

Happy Holidays!

Putting up holiday decorations early in your home isn’t just about the aesthetics of it all; it is a recipe for happiness and contentment. From triggering nostalgia to creating a cozy space, the benefits of decorating early for holidays are both scientifically and psychologically supported.

So, don’t wait until the last minute to put up that tree or wreath. Start spreading holiday cheer and warmth of the season a little earlier this year.

I hope this article will inspire you to put up your holiday decorations early this year. Let me know if it worked for you and made you happy in the comments below. Bonus if you can share the pictures of your holiday decorations with us on our social media handle.

Take Care and Happy Holidays!