Do you find yourself buoyed by a heartwarming Christmas movie, a steaming cup of hot chocolate in hand, in a living room strewn with illuminated garlands? It’s a cocooning moment that mixes relaxation with wonder, even for those who see the whole production as a bit of a sentimental cliché.
The year-end festivities may not always be universally appreciated, but they do have the benefit – for some, at least – of providing an inspirational break from everyday life. And in fact, these moments have positive effects on our mental and physical health, as numerous scientific findings have revealed.
Magical effects of Christmas movies
Experts agree that one of the benefits of binge-watching Christmas movies is that it stimulates the release of dopamine, commonly known as the “happy hormone”.
Several studies have indicated that these stories are good for boosting mood and, more specifically, the brain. As psychotherapist Dr Jo Gee explained to LADbible in 2019: “Watching Christmas films can actually make you feel happy, due to the neurological effect brought upon by the viewing.
“When we watch enjoyable films, it causes our brain to release dopamine and oxytocin, feel-good hormones that lift our mood and make us want to connect with others.” So go ahead and enjoy “Home Alone” or “It’s a Wonderful Life” (but perhaps give “Violent Night” a miss)!
Mood-boosting decorations
Some wait until the last minute to put up a Christmas tree, while others like to set it up as soon as possible, adorning their interior with a host of seasonal items to help them get into the holiday spirit.
This creates a warm, enveloping atmosphere that can boost moods. “Decorating around the holidays can give us a little spike of feel-good hormones,” psychiatrist Neha Chaudhary recently explained to the online publication Well+Good.
Between comfort, conviviality and nostalgia, such moments shared with loved ones stimulate the release of dopamine, leading to a more cheery mood.
Health benefits of ‘Christmas spices’
The festive season can also improve physical health, one way being through the spices that tend to be consumed at this time of year. Cinnamon, for instance, is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and to be rich in antioxidants, which help combat damage caused by free radicals
Nutmeg is good for digestion and sleep, while cloves are said to help soothe pain – for instance in the teeth and throat – and to have antibacterial properties that help fight certain infections.
It should be noted, however, that in terms of diet, the festive season is also a period rich in fats, alcohol and sugars, so excesses should be kept to a minimum. Happy holidays!