5 Ways to Embrace the Holiday Cheer (even when you’re not quite there yet)

Go All-Out with Decorations

One of the most enchanting elements of Christmas is how your surroundings transform and illuminate as the holiday approaches. Can you envisage a Christmas gathering void of lights, garlands, or trees? It wouldn’t be nearly as enjoyable! If you haven’t already, start decorating your home with festive adornments. Browse Pinterest or Instagram for some decorating ideas. Opt for a traditional palette of reds, greens, and golds, or experiment with a contemporary style. Purchase a new set of ornaments that excites you, deck your walls and doorways with warm, clear lights, hang the stockings, and make your Christmas tree the grandest spectacle. Light a holiday-scented candle, share a photo of your creation on social media, sit back, and relish it.

Curate a Christmas Playlist

For some, Christmas music is eagerly awaited each year, while for others, it might not be as appealing. Nevertheless, there’s no denying that holiday music can boost the festive spirit. Many of these timeless tracks evoke images of charming, snowy towns, sleigh rides, family gatherings, and iconic holiday characters like Santa Claus, Frosty the Snowman, or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Even if you’re not typically a fan of Christmas tunes, try this: search for classic Christmas songs online, select the ones you find bearable, create your own playlist, and watch how quickly the holiday spirit envelops you.

Delight in Holiday Treats

Food always has the potential to elevate our mood, and certain flavors align perfectly with specific seasons. A quintessential example is the rise of pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and apple flavors as autumn begins. Christmas has its own delightful array of treats, and what better justification to indulge than “I’m getting into the Christmas spirit!”? Stock up on eggnog, enjoy a mug of hot apple cider or a comforting cup of hot chocolate, bake a batch of sugar cookies, sit by the fireplace, and relish your treats while listening to your personalized Christmas playlist.

Watch a Holiday Classic…or Several

Christmas films are ideal for getting into the festive mood. There are countless options to choose from, and they’re almost certain to stir excitement for the upcoming celebrations. Fond of old movies? Watch It’s A Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street, or White Christmas. Prefer somewhat more recent classics? Consider A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, the Home Alone series, or Elf. In the mood for animation? The Nightmare Before Christmas, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, or A Charlie Brown Christmas are all great picks.

Brighten Someone Else’s Holiday

An age-old Christmas saying is “‘tis always better to give than receive.” The festive season brings joy to many, but it can be challenging for some. If you wish to not only immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit but also spread it to others, engage in giving. Volunteer at a local shelter, donate food and essentials to those in need, visit a nearby nursing home, perhaps bringing gifts for the residents—there are numerous wonderful actions you can take to brighten someone’s Christmas and motivate others to follow suit.