Why putting Christmas decorations up early can make you feel happier
The saying that Christmas seems to come earlier every year tends to ring true, but experts say there's a reason for it.
The trend of putting up Christmas decorations early is all about tapping into the feel-good factor – and it really works. Coined as 'joy-drenching' by home interiors brand Furn, their research found that 75 per cent of us say decorating positively impacts our mood.
'Joy drenching explores styles that bring a lasting emotional uplift, whether through playful colours, sentimental items, or cosy accents. It’s about creating a welcoming environment and authentically celebrates self-expression and individuality. It doesn’t just aim for a momentary hit of happiness but fosters a sustained sense of delight, warmth, and nostalgia,' explain Furn experts Anna and Rea.
Dr Marianne Trent, clinical psychologist and host of The Aspiring Psychologist Podcast agrees, and explains that putting up decorations early can trigger powerful positive emotions. 'Decorating early helps us connect to fond memories of previous celebrations and a sense of joy, family, and togetherness,' she tells us. 'The nostalgia we experience can help us weather the storms of life and feel close to family and friends who might no longer be with us. There’s also something comforting about our homes looking physically different for a season — it can be a welcome reprieve from daily pressures.'
This is more than just a festive indulgence. Anticipation is a powerful driver of happiness, and the earlier we decorate, the longer we can enjoy those feel-good vibes. 'When we look forward to something, it can activate dopamine, one of our brain's "feel-good" hormones,' Dr Trent adds. 'Decorating early extends the window of anticipation, creating a prolonged period of excitement and joy. This can also help bolster any seasonal gloom we might experience.'
Christmas is a feast for the senses, and sensory overload is a big part of its mood-boosting power. 'The twinkling lights, the cinnamon in the air, and beautiful baubles all help create feelings of comfort and happiness,' continues Dr Trent. Furn's interior experts agree, highlighting the role of cosy textures like festive blankets and cushions in creating an inviting atmosphere. 'Snuggling up with loved ones can activate oxytocin, another feel-good hormone,' adds Dr Trent.
For those dealing with anxiety, early decorating can provide a grounding sense of control. 'In an unpredictable world, decorating offers a tangible, creative activity with immediate gratification,' says Dr Trent. 'The process itself creates opportunities for focus and feelings of pride, making our homes feel like a comforting, safe space.'
Despite Furn's research revealing that two-thirds of us traditionally wait until 7th December, for many, the earlier start isn’t just about twinkling lights and embracing the festivity ahead of your neighbours, but it's about creating a sanctuary of joy, one decoration at a time.
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How to embrace 'joy drenching' in your home
To bring the trend into your home, focus on what makes you happiest — twinkling fairy lights, nostalgic ornaments and cosy throws. The key is to create a space that feels warm, inviting, and uniquely yours.
• Opt for sentimental pieces
Including items that remind you of special moments or hold sentimental value is a wonderful place to start. 'Handmade ornaments, family heirlooms, or even personalised decorations will naturally evoke nostalgia,' says Anna. 'Each year, as you unpack these decorations, they will help bring back fond memories and a sense of warmth and joy to your space.'
• Decorate for yourself before anyone else
'We tend to decorate more for other people than themselves,' continues Anna. 'While it’s nice to consider others' preferences, you must find ways to weave your personality throughout your home, too.' There are no rules. Choose items that resonate with your personal style and bring you happiness, whether it’s colourful stockings, bright cushions, or quirky baubles. It's all about creating joy in your home.
• Build up your decor over a longer period
'Gradually add your decorations over a couple of weeks to take the pressure off the "decorating day" and you’ll get a feel for when you’re happy with the finished result,' advises Anna. 'Start with your lights – and layer in extra cosy accessories to your living spaces as you go – this will help kick off the festive mood without being overtly Christmassy all in one go.'
• Repurpose items for January and beyond
That’s right, joy drenching doesn’t just have to be for December. 'For me, decor is all about joy, and I drench my home with different accessories in every room,' says Rea. 'Ultimately, it’s about finding ways to repurpose the items that you associate with being festive but also have longevity based on how you style them. Find the pieces that make you smile the most, and experiment with their placement, as this helps to keep that feeling alive beyond Christmas and the new year.'
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