People who begin Christmas celebrations early are happier according to scientists.
Apparently, those of us who wheel out the Christmas tree as soon as the bonfire embers diminish are much happier and excited about life.
Psychoanalyst, Steve McKeown, told Unilad: “Although there could be a number of symptomatic reasons why someone would want to obsessively put up decorations early, most commonly for nostalgic reasons either to relive the magic or to compensate for past neglect.
“In a world full of stress and anxiety people like to associate to 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 extend the excitement!”
As for the people who give the outside of their house a glow up in the Christmas period, Mr McKeown said that they tend to be deemed more “friendly and cohesive” compared to their neighbours.
The nostalgia associated with festive decorations reminds people of when they were children with no responsibilities.
In our stressful lives we have few opportunities to feel truly irresponsible.
Alongside this, memories associated with Christmas can often include individuals who are no longer with us.
“It may be a bittersweet feeling. Perhaps the holidays serve as a reminder of when a loved one was still alive. Or maybe looking at a Christmas tree reminds someone of what life was like when they still believed in Santa.” SAid Mr McKeown
By putting up decorations we have time to reflect and remember those who have passed which can make us feel calmer.
So if you were wondering when to start decorating, the answer is now.
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