By Jennifer McShane
22nd Nov 2017
22nd Nov 2017
To all that would shun those of us who get pure joy from even the thought of rocking around that Christmas tree on November 1st, we bring you some news – and rather smugly at that. Do you believe everything looks better with a tinsel ribbon attached? It turns out it doesn’t just make you feel all warm and happy inside; getting those festive decorations out as early as possible is in fact, good for the mental health of everyone, according to an expert.
Psychoanalyst Steve McKeown believes that adding a seasonal touch to your home could be beneficial to your mental health and that there’s no such thing as it being “too early” when it comes to decorating. In fact, doing so reminds you of happier childhood times and hence makes you feel less stressed and more content. Ah yes, your life before the Adulting anxiety set in.
Speaking to unilad.co.uk, McKeown explained that because of all the traditions we take part in around Christmas, this time sits out from the rest of the year in our memory – the pre-Christmas Day excitement of it all. So, one look at those well worn yet beloved homemade decorations evokes strong childhood memories and hence those happier feelings.
“In a world full of stress and anxiety people like to associate with things that make them happy and Christmas decorations evoke those strong feelings of the childhood. Decorations are simply an anchor or pathway to those old childhood magical emotions of excitement. So putting up those Christmas decorations early extends the excitement,” he explained.
So what are you waiting for? Start dusting off the ‘Special Boxes’ in the attic, planning your Christmas colour scheme or draw up the plans for the fairy light blitz that will soon be your front garden (yes, why we do know all the neighbours secretly compete) and let those happy memories and feelings flow.
There are only 33 days left. Make the most of them.
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