If you’ve already started decorating your home for Christmas, you’re not alone.
A recent survey by The Home Depot, in partnership with Wakefield Research, asked 1,000 Americans when it’s too early to put up a tree and garland. The results showed that 79% of people agree that decorating early helps them get into the holiday spirit.
Science has some pretty interesting reasons behind this early holiday cheer.
The Science Behind Early Christmas Decorating
Science shows there’s more early decorating than just creating a festive atmosphere. Experts agree that early decorating can have positive effects on your mental health and mood.
Dr. Marcus De Carvalho, a mental health professional, told the American Christmas Tree Association that decorating early strengthens our communities and enhances our well-being. “When we see people’s lights and visit decorated places during the holidays, it boosts our mood,” Dr. Carvalho explained. (ref)
Psychologist Deborah Serani also shared with TODAY Home that decorating early can trigger neurological changes that lead to happiness. By stepping out of our daily routine and adding something visually pleasing, our senses respond, providing an emotional lift.
The vibrant colors and bright lights that often come with holiday decor can even trigger a “spike in dopamine,” a feel-good hormone, Serani said.
Also, the colors and lights might even have a deeper effect. It’s possible that early decorations are a form of chromotherapy, or color therapy, which is thought to lift your energy levels and improve your mood. (ref)
How Christmas Decorations Show You’re Friendly & Social
When you start decorating for Christmas, it also sends a message to others, signaling that you’re friendly and open to connecting with your neighbors.
A study found that when homes were decorated, strangers were more likely to think the residents were sociable and approachable, even if the residents didn’t have many social interactions.
In the study, people rated homes based on photographs of their exteriors. When decorations weren’t present, it was easy for the raters to tell which homes belonged to sociable residents.
These homes often looked “lived-in,” with signs of social engagement and care. However, when Christmas decorations were added, even homes with less sociable residents were seen as more approachable.
The decorations created a welcoming atmosphere that made people think the residents were friendly and eager to connect. (ref)
The Beauty & Charm of Christmas Decorations
Christmas decorations can be traced back to ancient traditions and religious celebrations. The tradition of decorating for Christmas likely began in the 16th century in Germany, where people would bring evergreens like holly, ivy, and mistletoe into their homes to celebrate the winter season.
These plants were symbolic of life during the cold, dark months, and they were used to bring a little greenery and hope into the home.
Over time, the tradition evolved and became more secularized. In the 19th century, Christmas trees became popular in Europe and the United States, and people began to decorate them with candles, baubles, and other festive decorations.
So, when you put up your Christmas decorations, you’re not just following a holiday tradition. You’re continuing a long history of bringing cheer into your home, spreading joy, and connecting with others.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.