Spreading the Christmas Cheer While Cocooning

Christmas is typically a very social time. A time for family, for friends and community, coming together to create and share joyous memories.

This year will be a Christmas like no other. Cocooning and Self-Isolation mean we may need to break from tradition for the wellbeing of ourselves and our loved ones. But that doesn’t mean it can't be just as enjoyable as any other. Here are a few ideas to help you feel festive at home and to make this Christmas as memorable as any other.

1. “The Best Way to Spread Christmas Cheer is Singing Loud for All to Hear”

While there are very few things more irritating than premature Christmas songs playing in the shops, you can take the reins at home with the radio or any one of a number of Apps. Studies have shown that actively listening to music can lower blood pressure and stress and even reduce pain in some cases.

This is because while your brain is tuned in to the music, there is less room for it to focus on pain pathways. Playing Christmas music is also a great opportunity to spend time with friends and family. Set up a Zoom call and get everyone to belt out their finest renditions of Frosty, Rudolph and whatever else bring the Christmas feels. 

​Alternatively, if you’re feeling a little stage fright, you can leave it to the professionals and tune in to a carol service. There are plenty of these available online to get your festive fix.

2. Deck the Halls

Decorating is a great way to bring a little light in to your home during these difficult times. Christmas decorating can help beat the lockdown blues by promoting feelings of childhood nostalgia, community and warmth. Add a little sparkle to your home and get the creative juices flowing. Don’t let a little fairy light untangling slow you down.

Once you’re all decked out, why not indulge in some fresh air and a light show by checking out the lights in your neighbourhood and nearby streets - those within a 5k radius of course.

3. Connect with Loved ones.

Being distanced does not mean we have to be apart. There are plenty of ways to keep your loved ones close this holiday season and spread the Christmas cheer from the comfort of your home. Organise a Zoom call to share a festive moment with those nearest and dearest.

​Want a break from the screens? Christmas is also the perfect time the revive the dying art of letter writing. Send out some Christmas cards, or even a letter to Santa.

4. Find the Festive Flix

Curl in to the couch with your comfiest pyjamas and a cup of hot chocolate (or tea) and indulge. Christmas movies have long held a spot in the list of Christmas traditions for good reason. They offer the perfect opportunity to disconnect from reality for an hour or two and indulge in a world of pure positivity and joy.

During December, Christmas movies flood the television channels, a few must-sees include How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Elf and Jack Frost. But the list is endless, and the likes of Netflix only make deciding which one to settle on all the harder. 

Cant choose? Treat yourself to a marathon. 

​Gowan, it's Christmas!